Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
The abdominal region is an area that causes many problems for men and women alike. It can be the result of excess fat, weak abdominal muscles, pregnancy or loose skin that has been stretched and no longer responds to diet and exercise. Abdominal weight can lead to discomfort and may even cause lower back pain. Many people have had little luck with traditional methods of improving the appearance of their abdomen.
But you can have a flat, firm tummy with a simple procedure called a tummy tuck. By tightening abdominal muscles and removing excess fatty tissue and skin, you can achieve the flat midsection you've always wanted.
Tummy tucks, whether mini or full, produce excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin. Occasionally, liposuction is done to contour the sides. The results are long lasting if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly.
Consultation
Dr. Oser's cosmetic consultation is an important step in the process of considering aesthetic surgery. Dr. Oser and his staff are committed to helping you become well informed about the actual process of preparing for tummy tuck.
Dr. Oser will spend time with you discussing your wishes and desires. He will examine you and give you his professional opinion about how to best achieve your goals and will work with you to determine whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck. Other services may be recommended in combination with this procedure to ensure that you have an optimal surgical result.
Consideration
Your candidacy for this procedure is determined during the consultation phase. Dr. Oser will help you to decide whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck and may recommend combining it with liposuction to meet your expectations. He will take into consideration your specific needs, age, health and various other factors.
Preparation Before Your Procedure
Three weeks prior to and three weeks after your surgery, try to limit your alcohol and tobacco intake. Two weeks prior to and two weeks after your surgery, do not take medication that may thin your blood such as aspirin or ibuprofen products.
The Evening Before Your Procedure
The evening prior to your surgery, please refrain from eating or drinking anything including water. Please do not smoke and check with Dr. Oser regarding any medication that you are taking regularly.
The Day of Your Procedure
Please refrain from wearing makeup, contact lenses, hairpins, jewelry, body lotion or perfume. Wear comfortable clothing. If you develop a cold, sore throat, fever or any symptoms of illness before your surgery, notify the office.
Please prepare to have a responsible adult available to provide transportation after your procedure and have arrangements made for any necessary assistance you may require for the following 24 hours. If you are a minor, a parent or guardian must accompany you.
Procedure Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck can take between two to four hours depending on the complexity of the procedure. When you are ready for your procedure, surgery will be performed in a state-of-the-art, certified surgical suite.
Mini Tummy Tuck
If your laxity and excess skin is below the navel you may be a candidate for a mini tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck is done using minimally invasive techniques and results in less scarring and quicker recovery. A mini tummy tuck can be a shorter procedure usually lasting about one to two hours. Dr. Oser will help to determine which procedure is right for you.
Recovery
Just as everyone is an individual, everyone recovers differently. Avoiding strenuous activity and sleeping on your back is recommended for a couple of weeks following surgery. Most patients are back to work within two weeks.
A couple days after your surgery, Dr. Oser will follow up with you to see how you are healing, answer any questions and, if necessary, prescribe medication.
Results
A tummy tuck can make a dramatic change in your appearance and outlook on life. Many patients enjoy an increase in self-confidence and find a new enjoyment in their slimmer, trimmer figures, and flatter abdomen.
Dr. Oser may recommend complementary services to maximize your desired result. These may include liposuction, breast augmentation, breast lift or breast reconstruction