Tummy Tuck
Procedure Details
At Beleza Plastic Surgery Pittsburgh, Dr. Wooten performs the Tummy Tuck procedure at an outpatient surgical center. The procedure itself takes between 2-3 hours to perform. Our experienced Surgeons offer minimally invasive techniques as well as endoscopic techniques to limit the incision for appropriate candidates. Application of the proper technique for each individual patient can help achieve the goal that each patient wants to accomplish. The recovery period for this surgery is in the area of 2-3 weeks with most discomfort lasting 72 hours. Sometimes we have drains as part of the surgery which are only kept in for 5-7 days after the procedure.
Abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia. The Surgeon makes an incision just above the pubic area and will vary in length depending on the amount of excess skin and can extend from one hip to another. Sometimes a separate incision is made to free the navel from the surrounding skin. The skin is detached from the abdominal wall to reveal the muscles and fascia to be tightened. The muscle fascia wall is tightened with sutures. The remaining skin and fat are tightened and the excess is removed and incision is closed. The old belly button stalk is brought through into a new area and sutured into place. Liposuction is often used to compliment the tummy tuck procedure. Performing those procedures simultaneously redefines the waistline and elongates the torso, making it more feminine and attractive in clothing or in a bathing suit.
In all of our Tummy Tuck cases which we perform in Pittsburgh, the candidate and the surgeon will agree ahead of time exactly which area(s) will be treated and both will discuss the outcome to expect. Photos will be taken of the area to be treated, so the patient will have before and after photos. This is a great way to see your result. A consent form is signed before the day of the surgery. The targeted Tummy Tuck areas are marked on the body while the candidate is in an upright position. An antibiotic will be given about an hour beforehand, and afterwards. In the operating room, a sterilizing solution is applied to the relevant areas. Usually abdominoplasty is an outpatient procedure but the patient can choose to stay overnight. After the procedure, the patient will usually be able to get up, walk around, and go home, although they’ll need someone else to drive them home.
Call our Pittsburgh plastic surgery office at 412-952-9299 to schedule your personal consultation.