Tummy Tuck
Ohio cosmetic surgeon Dr. Faisal Quereshy recommends tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, to patients with the following cosmetic concerns:
- Protruding tummy
- Hanging abdominal skin flap
- Stretch marks on the stomach
- Separated or loose stomach muscles
- Excess skin on the upper and lower abdomen
What is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
When stretched, loose abdominal skin is located only on the lower region of the stomach, a mini tummy tuck, instead of a full tummy tuck, may provide adequate correction. Unlike full tummy tucks, mini tummy tucks involve only a small horizontal incision near the pubic area and do not require belly button repositioning.
As a result, mini tummy tucks provide more modest results and do not address excess skin in the upper abdominal area.
Do I need Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery is often confused with liposuction, and many patients believe the procedures can achieve the same results. In fact, tummy tuck and liposuction procedures are used to accomplish very different goals. Liposuction can permanently reduce fat in the abdominal area, however it does not address loose, excess skin. Tummy tuck surgery involves excess skin removal and muscle tightening but does not provide fat reduction.
The two procedures are often combined when both loose skin and stubborn fat deposits are present in the abdominal region, however it is important to distinguish between the two if you do not need both procedures.
Tummy Tuck Surgery
Tummy tuck surgery is completed under general anesthesia or sedation anesthesia for the duration of the procedure, which may take anywhere from 2-5 hours to perform. Dr. Quereshy will make a slightly curved, horizontal incision along your lower abdomen near the pubic region that reaches from hip to hip, as well as an incision inside your belly button to facilitate repositioning.
Loose, excess skin will be removed, your abdominal muscles will be tightened and liposuction, laser liposuction or Smart Lipo may be performed to further improve waistline contours. Incisions are closed with stitches or sutures and surgical tape. A surgical garment will also be placed around your stomach and should be worn continuously for the first week of your recovery.
Tummy Tuck Recovery and Results
You will need an adult to help care for you for at least 24 hours after your tummy tuck procedure, and you may require additional help around your house for a few days. Dr. Quereshy will see you for your first follow-up visit within 1-2 days, and at that time will remove surgical drains if needed. Once your drains are removed, you may resume showering as directed. Change the absorbent gauze on your incisions to keep them clean and dry, but do not remove surgical tape. It will eventually fall off on its own.
Limit physical activity for the first 24 hours after surgery and gradually return to activity as directed. Dr. Quereshy will give you specific instructions based on your healing progress regarding when you can return to normal activity and strenuous activity. Your abdomen will be tight for several weeks following the procedure, so do not be alarmed if you can't walk fully upright for 1-2 weeks.
Take pain medication as directed to avoid discomfort, and keep wearing your surgical garment except to shower for up to six weeks to minimize swelling.
How long will it take to see results after a tummy tuck?
Swelling and bruising should resolve completely within several weeks, and you will see your final results and firmer, flatter tummy within 6 months.
Tummy Tuck in Cleveland, Akron, Medina
The Visage Surgical Institute is located in Medina, Ohio and serves local tummy tuck patients, as well as those from the greater Cleveland and Akron metro areas. For more information about tummy tuck surgery or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Quereshy, please call (330) 721-2323.
