A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen and tightens core muscles, resulting in a flatter and slimmer appearance. It is often combined with body contouring procedures such as liposuction, depending on the individual patient’s needs.
Dr. Sepideh Saber brings her unique perspective as a woman to all of her procedures, employing a sensitive and thorough approach that patients of all genders have praised.
While a commitment to a healthy diet and routine exercise is always encouraged, many people are still left with less than thrilling results in their midsections. A tummy tuck directly targets this area of stubborn and uncomfortable fat and skin. It strengthens and flattens the abdominal wall, resulting in a smaller, contoured waistline.
A good candidate for this procedure is a patient who, after a prior pregnancy or significant weight loss, now suffers from stretched out abdominal muscles with outpouching of the belly, sagging skin with stretchmarks, and/or excess fat around the upper and lower abdomen and the love handles.
The tummy tuck is also a key component of the package of procedures called a mommy makeover.
Also, at least one study points to the possibility of non-cosmetic benefits.
When considering a tummy tuck, it’s important to have realistic expectations about what the surgery can and cannot do. While a tummy tuck is great for tightening the abdomen, it is not a substitute for weight loss and, indeed, should be obtained by patients who have been at their goal weight for at least six months. Also, women who are planning on giving birth in the future are encouraged to postpone the procedure until after they have had their last child, although this may differ on a case-by-case basis.
If you’re unsure about what type of procedure will be best for you, Dr. Saber and our team are more than happy to discuss your needs and concerns during a consultation.
When considering a tummy tuck, it’s important to have realistic expectations about what the surgery can and cannot do. While a tummy tuck is great for tightening the abdomen, it is not a substitute for weight loss and, indeed, should be obtained by patients who have been at their goal weight for at least six months. Also, women who are planning on giving birth in the future are encouraged to postpone the procedure until after they have had their last child, although this may differ on a case-by-case basis.
If you’re unsure about what type of procedure will be best for you, Dr. Saber and our team are more than happy to discuss your needs and concerns during a consultation.
Before the Procedure
During your consultation, you’ll discuss your desired outcome and Dr. Saber will recommend which type of tummy tuck surgery will be best for you, including whether you should obtain a complete abdominoplasty or partial abdominoplasty. Partial or mini abdominoplasty is typically done if the fat deposits are below the navel and it does not require repositioning. A complete abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdomen and, as a result, may call for the belly button to be moved to maintain a natural look after excess skin is removed.
The Procedure
Your surgery will begin with a general anesthetic administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. Dr. Saber will then carefully make the necessary incision which will be strategically placed to minimize scars and hide them under clothing such as underwear or bikini panties. After excess skin is removed, the area is closed and, if needed, the navel is repositioned.
After your procedure, you will need to wear bandages and, most likely, a drain tube for the first few days. You will be prescribed pain relievers and other medications as indicated to help with postoperative swelling and discomfort.
Patients should expect to rest at home for at least one to two weeks after the procedure. More strenuous activities should be postponed until after six weeks following the surgery to ensure proper healing and optimal results.
