Tummy Tuck Scottsdale

Individuals looking to achieve a slender and more striking midsection may be perfect candidates for tummy tuck surgery (“abdominoplasty”). I can help patients achieve a dramatic enhancement to their self-image through this procedure.

The surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightens the muscles and fascia of the abdominal wall. This type of surgery is usually sought by patients with sagging skin and lax muscles after pregnancy or major weight loss.

There are two options that I offer for a tummy tuck. During a complete abdominoplasty, an incision will be made on the abdomen from hipbone to hipbone. This is the option for those patients who require the most improvement. The cut will be made low, at about the same level as the pubic hair.

I then manipulate and shape the skin, tissue, and muscle as needed. This procedure produces a new opening for the belly button because it’s necessary to free the navel from surrounding tissue. Drainage tubes may be placed under the skin and these will be removed in a few days.

A mini-abdominoplasty is often done on my patients whose fat deposits are located below the navel and entail shorter incisions. During this procedure, the patient’s belly button most likely will not be moved. The skin will be detached between the line of incision and the belly button. Depending on the patient’s own personal condition and the difficulty of what they need, the technique may only take up to two hours.

During recovery, there will be some pain and swelling in the days following the procedure. I usually prescribe a pain medication and muscle relaxer if needed and instruct patients on how to best live with the short-term pain. Tenderness may last for several weeks or months. Some people experience temporary numbness, bruising, and overall fatigue.

As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Complications are extremely rare, but can include infection and bleeding.

Based on your anatomy and individual goals, I can recommend a full tummy tuck or partial one. Before doing so, it is important that you carefully research this cosmetic procedure and sit down with me for a consultation. I will answer all of your questions and discuss several aspects involving the procedure. For additional information or to schedule a consultation, please contact our Scottsdale Plastic Surgery office at 480.890.0600