Tummy tuck
Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a surgical procedure in which excess skin with stretch marks and fat are removed from the lower abdomen and the muscles of the abdomen wall are tightened. This procedure can drastically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. The procedure is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal skin, resulting to loss of muscle tone and stretch marks. Dr. Heidari often performs tummy tucks in conjunction with liposuction to create a more attractive overall appearance of the body.
The ideal candidates for an abdominoplasty are men or women in good health and relatively good shape, but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin with stretch marks that would not respond to exercise.
Tummy tuck is a major operation. Some of the risks of tummy tucks include infection and blood clots. These can be treated easily and are rare. Dr. Heidari carefully evaluates each patient pre-operatively and takes every necessary step to reduce the operative risks for you. Tummy tucks have been known to leave scarring. Dr. Heidari carefully designs the scar to be hidden with the under garment, and uses the latest laser technology available to significantly reduce the appearance of the scar. He will explain fully as to what to expect post-operatively for the fastest recovery and best cosmetic results.
Recovery
After the tummy tuck, you are in a binder for about 5 weeks. The overall recovery takes a little more than liposuction. You can take a shower in about 5-7 days after drains are removed. Drains are placed under the surgical area to remove excess fluid and blood and can be easily managed by the you or your caretaker. Pain is very manageable through a pain pump and usually, patients ambulate the first night after surgery. You can return to work within 3 weeks with your garments on and return to regular exercising in about 5-6 weeks.