How Can I Tell If I Need A Tummy Tuck?
It’s normal to feel some insecurity about the way we look and to look for ways to change our look. At Rios Center for Plastic Surgery in Edinburg, TX, we understand insecurities, and we offer several treatments and procedures to help you take back your self-confidence. Today, we reveal six key differences between tummy tucks and liposuction to help you determine which, if either, will help you achieve your aesthetic goals.
When considering which procedure is right for you, there are six key differences you need to consider: the results of each procedure, how long the results last, what type of anesthesia you will be put under, what you can expect during the procedure, what you can expect from the recovery process and whether you are a good candidate.
If you’ve been thinking about getting a tummy tuck, but still aren’t sure whether surgery is right for you, schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Bachelor to explore your options. Tummy tuck surgery is a fairly extensive procedure that can completely transform the look and feel of your midsection. If you are done having children and are eager to get your pre-pregnancy body back, tummy tuck surgery could be just what you need to get a flat and toned stomach. If you just want to enhance your figure and lose some of the extra flab, consider the benefits of plastic surgery to sculpt and contour your body.
Here are just five signs you’re ready for a tummy tuck:
1. You have an apple body shape. If you tend to carry most of your weight around your midsection, it may be impossible for you to get those washboard abs and maintain a flat stomach — even with a healthy diet and exercise program. Tummy tuck surgery can reshape your midsection to whittle down your waistline and create a more attractive silhouette.
2. You have stretched abdominal muscles. Whether it’s from multiple pregnancies or extreme weight loss, stretched or torn abdominal muscles may be making your stomach protrude or appear saggy. Tummy tuck surgery can repair and tighten these muscles to create a flat and toned look.
3. You want a more feminine silhouette. An S-shaped silhouette is ideal for many, but few women are born with this body shape. Getting a tummy tuck can help to create a more feminine silhouette by reshaping the abdomen and creating a more streamlined figure. We can also perform liposuction of the flanks and abdomen to further enhance the results of your tummy tuck.
4. You have loose skin around your midsection. Loose or sagging skin around your midsection may be making you feel self-conscious when wearing a bathing suit or tight-fitting clothing. If you want a tighter stomach, tummy tuck surgery may be the only way to achieve your ideal figure. Loose and sagging skin will only get worse over time and is not always treatable with non-invasive skin tightening treatments. Tummy tuck surgery involves getting rid of excess skin and tightening the treatment area to achieve the ideal contours.
5. Your midsection is a stubborn area. If you live a relatively healthy lifestyle but find that your midsection just isn’t responding to your diet and exercise efforts, tummy tuck surgery may be the only way to achieve the results you want. What you think may be a problem with excess fat can actually turn out to be excess abdominal tissue or skin. We can slim down the waistline, flatten the stomach, and give you a more youthful-looking body shape with this targeted body contouring procedure.
What is safer than a tummy tuck?
We can all agree that tummy tuck surgery has, and is still helping a lot of men and women out there. It is a surgical procedure that is invasive and eliminates excess skin and fats that cause the abdominal skin to sag. Tummy tuck surgery is mostly recommended for people who suffer from the consequences of weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and many others. While abdominoplasty has been one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the recent past, both non-surgical and surgical alternatives are available. This article highlights the top 7 non-surgical alternatives to a tummy tuck.
1. Cool Sculpting
Excess abdominal fat and skin can be difficult to eliminate through normal exercises, and dieting. While some patients may fear going through the invasive surgical procedure (tummy tuck), cool sculpting may be an option. Cool sculpting deals with small pockets of fats, which means that it works best for individuals with a toned abdominal section, and good skin elasticity. Cool sculpting is a procedure that uses a cool sculpting device to administer intense cold into the abdominal fat cells, which destroys them.
Afterward, these damaged fat cells are removed from the body through natural processes. It reduces abdominal fat by about 20% which shows that a person can obtain results after one session. Likewise, if need be, you could go for a second session if you feel that the first one didn’t help you much.
2. ThermiTight
Thermitight non-surgical procedures involve the use of heat to eliminate excess fat from the abdominal section. It is done through the use of a thermi device that applies thermal energy to the abdominal area. The applied energy gently heats the abdominal fatty tissues at an optimum temperature, when the abdomen is wrapped in a compression bandage. Excess fats are broken down by the heat and eliminated through normal processes to provide a tighter abdominal profile. Thermitight procedure is considered safe and secure because it is performed by a well-qualified surgeon, and uses a specialized probe that monitors the temperature rise to maintain it at the required degree but not to exceed it. Also, an infrared camera is used to monitor the skin’s temperature not to exceed the expected.
3. BodyTite
A bodytite is also referred to as Radiofrequency assisted liposuction, (RFAL). It is a minimally invasive procedure that uses local anesthesia to tighten loose and sagging abdominal skin, as it eliminates unwanted fats. It is made up of two probes whose tips move in accordance with one another. The lower probe that contains a thin metal cannula, is inserted into the skin through a tiny incision, after which the bodytite machine is turned on to deliver radiofrequency energy to the abdominal fats through the skin. This heat shrinks the fat tissues and cells beneath the skin to provide an even, smooth abdominal contour. A bodytite procedure effectively reduces and contracts the abdominal fats by a larger percentage, which makes one session enough. Bodytite requires a shorter time for recovery, and has little, to no scars left.
4. EMSCULPT
Similar to a tummy tuck surgery, EMSCULPT tightens the abdominal muscle to restore a flatter tummy. It involves muscle tightening, and toning. As a revolutionary treatment, EMSCULPT works through muscle contractions, basically working the muscles out. These muscle contractions are much stronger compared to the natural muscle contractions, and in one treatment, it can cause up to 20,000 abdominal muscle contractions. EMSCULPT provides effective results similar to tummy tuck surgery, and recovery takes a few days.
5. Renuvion
Renuvion, also known as J Plasma, or J Plasty, is a non-surgical procedure that tightens the skin. It involves the application of a controlled amount of heat to the target area. The procedure is done through a small incision in the tummy, where the surgeon places the renuvion device then releases pro helium gas, and radiofrequency which forms a precise stream of energy. The energy formed generates just the right amount of heat which contracts the skin, as the excess helium gas cools the area under treatment. This whole combination effectively contracts the abdominal tissues beneath the skin, hence tightening them, to give a flatter tummy.
6. Exilis Elite
Exilis Elite is a non-surgical procedure that tightens sagging skin, re-contours the body uses no anesthetic injections, and requires fewer treatment sessions. It can best work for individuals with moderate excess skin and fats that make the skin loose. Exilis elite technique has been improved and uses a new elite model machine that delivers results within countable treatment sessions. This machine uses RF technology to reach the depths of the skin causing the development of new collagen, as the top skin layer remains intact. Exilis elite technique leaves the skin smoother, tighter, and even, restoring the youthful look.
7. Profound Skin Tightening
Another working alternative for tummy tuck surgery is profound skin tightening. This technique combines radiofrequency energy, and microneedling to re-contour the abdominal skin, and tissues for an even flatter tummy. It is done through tiny micro needles which penetrate the skin releasing radiofrequency thermal energy that activates the formation of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid, elements necessary for skin tightening. This procedure is non-invasive and has a shorter recovery period.
Which type of tummy tuck is right for me?
You’d love to have a flat, trim tummy, but no matter how much you diet or how many crunches you do, you still have a “pooch.” Often caused by pregnancy or weight loss, this slack area of loose skin and stretched muscle can usually only be fixed with a tummy tuck. The question is: Do you need a full or a mini tummy tuck? Renowned Raleigh plastic surgeon, Dr. Ortiz, is breaking down the difference and factors that may affect your choice so you know which one may be right for you.
Understanding a Full Tummy Tuck
For a full tummy tuck, the goal is to smooth and tone the entire front abdominal from just below the rib cage to the pubic area. The procedure begins with an incision between the navel and pubic area and a second incision above the navel. Then, excess skin is removed from the belly, and the muscles are repaired and tightened. The skin is then pulled taut over the mid section, creating a smoother, slimmer shape. Often, a new belly button will be shaped or moved higher on the belly.
Understanding a Mini Tummy Tuck
For a mini tummy tuck, the area of focus is solely underneath the navel. Just like a full version, an incision is placed a few inches below the navel, allowing Dr. Ortiz to repair the lower muscles and remove the loose skin. Then, the skin is pulled tightly over the lower abdomen, eliminating signs of a lower belly pooch.
Choosing Which Tummy Tuck Is Right for You
Now that you have a better understanding of the procedures, you probably have a better idea of which one will align with your goals.
A mini tummy tuck is generally ideal for people who just have a small area of concern below the navel where there is a “pooch” that protrudes. It’s a less invasive procedure that is often easier to heal from while still providing you with the flatter, more toned tummy that looks great in fitted outfits and swimwear.
A full tummy tuck is the right choice for people who have excess skin, sagging, and/or roundness both above and below the navel. While it’s a more involved procedure, most patients are very happy with the results and are up and around quickly.
Regardless of which procedure you choose, both are designed for women who are done having children as future pregnancies will compromise the results. Additionally, you’ll want to maintain a healthy diet and engage in regular exercise after Dr. Ortiz clears you to ensure your results last.
Combining Your Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures
While a tummy tuck will take care of loose skin and slack muscles, it may not remove stretch marks, unless they’re located on the part of the excess skin to be removed. Additionally, fat is not removed from the area during the procedure. However, if you have stubborn areas of fat along your abdomen or in other areas, such as your thighs, buttock, or back, Dr Ortiz can perform liposuction at the same time as you are having your tummy tuck performed.
Additionally, many women who are reclaiming their body after they are done having children will choose a “mommy makeover.” This is a customized set of procedures to help you look your best after having babies and may include a breast lift, breast augmentation, labiaplasty, or a Brazilian butt lift, depending on your goals.
Who should not get a tummy tuck?
No area of the body is more frustrating than the stomach. As we go through normal physical changes, such as childbirth, weight fluctuations and the aging process, excess skin and fat find a way to accumulate around our middle. Unfortunately, as many people find out, exercise and diet can prove to be unsuccessful at reclaiming the curvaceous waist of our youth. The abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is an extremely successful surgical procedure, designed to sculpt the waistline and smooth the stomach. The surgical technique can also repair damaged and weakened abdominal muscles, further tightening the stomach and ensuring long-term results.
As with any surgical procedure, it is important that a prospective patient do their homework to fully understand both the potential positives and risks of the procedure. Even though the tummy tuck surgery can prove to be beneficial for many men and women, there are stringent recovery requirements and potential complications that must first be considered. For these reasons, the abdominoplasty may not be right for everyone. Before committing to the abdominoplasty procedure, consider the following five tummy tuck facts:
A tummy tuck requires significant downtime
A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure that will require weeks to heal. The technique includes an incision, running from hip to hip. Patients should expect their recovery to take two to three weeks. At the beginning, you will be fatigued, swollen and sore. It is normal to have moderate pain during these first several days, although this will steadily improve. It is vital to allow yourself time to focus on rest and healing. More than simply taking time off from work, abdominoplasty patients will need assistance with household chores and children. Strenuous physical activities will also need to be postponed for at least four to six weeks.
Expect to be at a stable weight before your tummy tuck
An abdominoplasty is a wonderful way to sculpt the figure and shape the body. However, the surgical procedure is not a replacement for weight loss. It is important that you be close to your desired weight for six to twelve months before undergoing a tummy tuck. Most surgeons will recommend patients be between 10-15 pounds from their goal weight. This is important as gaining or losing additional weight can undo the contoured shape achieved through your surgery. Weight fluctuations can stretch the abdominal tissues and can require a revision procedure to restore the benefits of the initial procedure.
A tummy tuck will leave a permanent scar
Although the tummy tuck is one of the most valued and effective cosmetic surgery procedures performed today, the incision will leave a scar along the abdomen. This will run along the horizontal incision line, stretching from hip to hip, right above the pubic bone. While the scar will fade a bit over time, it will remain visible for years to come. An experienced plastic surgeon will carefully place the incision, ensuring the scar is well-concealed under clothing, underwear and swimsuit bottoms.
Surgical drains will be in place for the first week or two
After surgery, drains are put in place to eliminate a buildup of blood or fluids, keeping swelling down and ensuring proper healing. In many cases, surgical drains are placed following an abdominoplasty. Although temporary, these will require attention and care. Prior to surgery, your surgeon will discuss the need for drains and how to care for them, including any limitations on bathing. In most cases, the drains are painlessly removed in seven to ten days, however, they may need to stay in place for two weeks or longer.
Full healing can take up to a year
The benefits from your tummy tuck will not be immediately noticeable. In fact, over the first several weeks, redness, bruising, stiffness and swelling are common. This will slowly resolve over the next four to six weeks and the results will start to show. However, residual swelling can linger for six months or longer. A temporary numbness or a loss of sensation along the incision line is normal, but will slowly resolve. While you should be feeling close to your old self after a few months, it can take a full year before the stomach has finished healing and the complete results of surgery can be seen.
Whether you are thinking about a full abdominoplasty or a mini-tummy tuck, take your time and only put your trust in a board-certified plastic surgeon. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) offers a variety of tools to get you started towards your abdominoplasty, from informative animations to before and after photographs. Do your homework, then schedule a consultation appointment with an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. With proper research and an experienced aesthetic provider, you can achieve the flat, taut abdomen you have been longing for.