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Who is a Good Candidate?

Candidates for this surgery are individuals who have excess loose skin and fat on their abdomen which cannot be removed with diet and exercise. Also, individuals who have had hernias or have weakened abdominal muscles can benefit from this surgery. It is important the patient is completely done having children, as future pregnancy can affect tummy tuck results. Candidates should note that this is not a weight loss surgery, they should already be at a healthy, stable weight prior to undergoing a tummy tuck. A consultation with Dr. Homas or Dr. Brostrom can determine if this procedure is right for you.

The Procedure

For the procedure, traditionally a curved incision is made horizontally from hip to hip just above the pubic hairline. A second incision will be made around the navel to help with the removal of excess skin in the upper abdomen. Excess skin and fat will be removed through these incisions and weakened or separated muscles will be repaired. This is the traditional tummy tuck. There are two other tummy tuck techniques that can be done: the mini tummy tuck or the extended tummy tuck.

Mini Tummy Tuck

This tummy tuck technique is performed on patients who are already slim but have a small pocket of fat or belly pooch on their lower abdomen. The incision is shorter for this procedure and no excess fat or skin is removed from the belly button. Due to these differences, the recovery time is often also shorter. 

Extended Tummy Tuck

This tummy tuck technique is ideal for patients who have experienced massive weight loss. The incision made is longer than the traditional incision to address excess skin and fat in the waist and hips. The recovery for this procedure tends to be longer since it is more extensive, but the results are dramatic. 

Recovery

During the recovery period, swelling and redness will occur. Any discomfort can be managed with pain medication. To collect any excess fluid drainage during recovery, post-surgical drains may be placed. Patients will need to wear a special surgical compression garment to help reduce swelling, improve blood circulation, and hold the tissues in place. Recovery will differ between patients, but most people take about two weeks off of work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you lose weight after tummy tuck?

You can absolutely lose weight after a tummy tuck. However, the amount of weight you will lose after this procedure, also known as abdominoplasty, depends on several factors. Some of these factors include how much excess skin you have, how much fat you need to be removed, the type of abdominoplasty you undergo, and how much weight you need to lose.

How long do you wear a binder after surgery?

You may wake up from anesthesia after abdominal surgery wearing an abdominal binder. Depending on the type of surgery you have, an abdominal binder may be worn for 4-6 weeks or for the full the duration of your recovery.

Why would you need a tummy tuck?

After giving birth or a significant weight loss, women may complain of back pain resulting from weakened stomach muscles. In flattening the abdomen and removing excess stomach fat, a tummy tuck surgically tightens the weakened muscles, resulting in much-needed abdominal support that can alleviate your back pain.

When can I start working out after tummy tuck?

Should your tummy tuck require tightening the abdominal muscles, as in most cases, it usually takes about 4 weeks before you will be able to begin light cardiovascular exercise.

Schedule A Consultation

If you are ready to say goodbye to your stubborn belly pooch, a tummy tuck may be the answer! Contact our San Antonio office today to schedule your initial consultation.