Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

What are the Benefits of the Tummy Surgery?

Tummy Tuck patients often pursue surgery in order to correct a number of issues including:

• Remove loose skin and excess fat in the abdominal area
• Eliminate stretch marks
• Tighten the abdominal wall
• Reshape the midsection
• Tighten underlying muscles
• Improve confidence

Dr. Barr utilizes a 360 degree approach to addressing your body concerns. Most patients also choose to have concurrent VASER liposuction of the “muffin top” waist region. By combining this procedure with a tummy tuck for women this enhances the hourglass shape. By combining VASER liposuction with a tummy tuck for men this addresses “love handles” by eliminating the fullness in the lower back. Like the thousands of women and men who undergo this procedure every year, you too can gain the confidence you deserve.

Extended Tummy Tuck

After achieving a significant weight loss milestone, individuals often face a new challenge: excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, after massive weight loss, can be a transformative solution.

This surgical procedure aims to remove excess skin, tighten abdominal muscles, and contour the midsection for a more toned and sculpted appearance. With his expertise and tailored approach, Dr. Barr helps patients navigate this journey, restoring both form and confidence. Say goodbye to the remnants of the past and hello to a rejuvenated, contoured silhouette with a tummy tuck after massive weight loss.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to address localized excess skin and weakened muscles in the lower abdomen. Unlike a full tummy tuck, a mini tuck focuses on the area below the navel, making it an ideal option for individuals with specific concerns in the lower abdominal region.

A smaller incision is made during a mini tummy tuck, and excess skin is removed. The abdominal muscles are tightened to enhance the overall contour of the lower abdomen. This procedure is particularly suitable for those who may not require extensive correction but seek subtle improvements in the appearance of their midsection.

Who is a Candidate for Abdominoplasty?

Dr. Barr underscores that an Abdominoplasty is not a solution for weight loss and should not be regarded as a substitute for adopting a healthy lifestyle marked by a balanced diet and regular exercise. When consulting with his patients for Tummy Tuck procedures, Dr. Barr prioritizes establishing realistic expectations concerning the anticipated surgery outcomes.

In evaluating the most suitable candidates for Abdominoplasty, Dr. Barr considers various factors, including:

Optimal Age for Tummy Tuck:

While Abdominoplasty is frequently sought by women post-childbearing to restore their abdominal appearance after pregnancy, the procedure applies to both men and women across different age brackets. Although there is no strict age requirement, candidates are generally expected to be in good health and reasonably fit.

Weight Stability:

Ideal candidates should be at a stable weight. Tummy tuck surgery is not a substitute for weight loss, and fluctuations in weight can affect the results.

Good Overall Health:

Candidates should be in good general health. Certain medical conditions or lifestyle factors, such as smoking, may increase the risks associated with surgery.

Realistic Expectations:

Candidates need to have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery. While a tummy tuck can produce significant improvements, it’s not a guarantee of perfection, and the goal is to achieve a natural-looking result.

Preparing for Your Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Procedure

The first step when considering an abdominoplasty procedure is to schedule your consultation with Dr. Barr. The consultation process provides an opportunity for you to obtain important information about the procedure and to have all of your questions answered prior to proceeding with surgery. It also enables Dr. Barr to properly assess you and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for abdominoplasty surgery.

You should be prepared to discuss your medical history, including any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries, all current medications, as well as any significant weight gain or loss.

During your consultation Dr. Barr will carefully examine your abdomen both while you are standing as well as in a horizontal position. The overall skin tone and degree of loose skin in the abdominal region will be examined, along with the amount of excess fat in your abdomen and the condition of your abdominal muscles. Different surgical approaches and options will be discussed, and he will explain which surgical approach would be best suited to you based on your individual characteristics and aesthetic goals.

The benefits, risks and potential complications associated with abdominoplasty surgery will be thoroughly explained during this consultation. The information provided at this initial consultation will be comprehensive and thorough and should enable you to make an informed decision as to whether or not an abdominoplasty procedure is the right choice for you. A comprehensive instruction package will also be provided to you at the time of consultation and includes instructions for before and after surgery as well.

How is an abdominoplasty procedure performed?

The abdominoplasty procedure is performed under general anesthesia, and the entire procedure takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on each patient’s needs. During surgery, an incision is made across your lower abdomen, usually from hipbone to hipbone. This incision is placed just above the pubic area so that it can remain hidden underneath undergarments and bathing suits. In situations where the amount of excess skin is minimal but the patient is bothered by a protruding lower abdomen, the incision is much smaller, usually remaining within the pubic area. There are several different approaches to this surgery depending on the amount of fat and skin requiring removal. This will be discussed in detail during the consultation process.

Through the incision, the excess skin and fat in the abdominal area are removed, and the underlying muscles are tightened to give the abdomen a flat and narrow appearance. Any stretch marks between the belly button and the pubic region are permanently removed. For most patients, it is recommended that they also undergo ultrasonic liposuction of the waist region to enhance the hourglass shape in women, and to remove the “love handles” in men.

Recovery After Tummy Tuck

Dr. Barr’s extensive experience in performing this procedure will help to ensure that your post-operative recovery is minimized. As the result of a pain management system for abdominoplasty patients, you should experience only minimal discomfort post-operatively. A Pain Relief Pump™ is used to ease the pain in the first 48 hours after surgery. This small tool is worn in a belt around the waist, and connected to the surgical site by a small tube. It regularly delivers a local anesthetic into the incision to help ease post-surgical pain and discomfort.

A small girdle will be provided for you and should be worn for the first 4 to 6 weeks following your surgery. You will be asked to return to Barr Plastic Surgery 3 to 5 days after surgery for the removal of a small drainage tube, and again 10 days later for a follow-up on the incision. Dr. Barr uses dissolving sutures for this procedure, so you will not need to have sutures removed.

You will need to limit your activity for the first week following surgery, although light activity around the home during this time is fine. You can return to work within 7 to 10 days and can return to full activity, including sports and fitness, approximately 6 weeks after surgery.

What are the Risks of Surgical Tummy Tuck?

Abdominal plastic surgery involves a low amount of risk, and it is important that patients understand the risks involved. Although the majority of patients do not experience any complications, these will be discussed during your consultation with Dr.Barr to ensure each patients awareness and comfort prior to choosing to pursue tummy tuck surgery.

Common Misconceptions About Tummy Tuck

MYTH: Some people believe that a tummy tuck is a solution for weight loss.

Reality: Tummy tucks are not intended for significant weight reduction. They primarily address excess skin and weakened muscles after weight loss or pregnancy.

MYTH: People often think that tummy tucks result in large and noticeable scars.

Reality: While there will be a scar, skilled surgeons aim to place it strategically, often below the bikini line. Scars tend to fade over time, becoming less conspicuous.

MYTH: Tummy tucks are often associated exclusively with women.

Reality: Men can also benefit from tummy tucks, particularly those who have experienced significant weight loss or have abdominal issues.

MYTH: People may believe that after a tummy tuck, they no longer need to focus on diet and exercise

Reality: While a tummy tuck can enhance abdominal contours, maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential for long-term results. It is not a substitute for regular exercise and a balanced diet.

MYTH: People may believe that tummy tucks are purely cosmetic and don’t offer any functional benefits.

Reality: While tummy tucks improve aesthetics, they can also address issues such as separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), contributing to functional problems like back pain.

MYTH: Some expect immediate, permanent results from a tummy tuck.

Reality: Swelling is joint initially, and final results may take months to manifest fully. While a tummy tuck can provide long-lasting results, lifestyle factors can impact the longevity of the outcome.