Introduction
Considering having a tummy tuck in Austin, TX? Personique® has performed thousands of tummy tuck procedures with consistently stunning results! This procedure also referred to as abdominoplasty, is a very popular procedure that removes loose skin and excess fat from the abdomen region to restore a flat, contoured midsection. It is especially great for tightening lax stomach muscles that have been stretched beyond the limits of natural repair as a result of pregnancy.
Our patients find that we offer some of the best tummy tuck results in Austin, TX while striving to exceed expectations and practicing patient saftey. Below, we’ve included our guide to the surgery, but if you’d like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today!
BODY CONTOURING BASICS
A tummy tuck aims not only to remove excess fat deposits from the stomach but has the additional element of repairing and tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess, hanging skin. As we get older, there are a number of things that can wreak havoc on our midsection, particularly weight fluctuation and childbearing.
These circumstances can make it incredibly difficult to regain tone and tightness in the abdomen, regardless of how many sit-ups we do or calories we cut. This is most likely because the abdominal muscles have been damaged or weakened, causing the stomach to protrude. This frequently happens during pregnancy when the stretching of the stomach causes the abdominal muscles to separate. Once this happens, no amount of diet or exercise will deliver the results you desire, not until the muscles are repaired. Often, the skin is also stretched beyond the limits of natural repair during pregnancy and weight fluctuation, leaving the individual with loose, hanging skin.
A tummy tuck procedure addresses all of these issues by streamlining and sculpting the midsection, restoring your stomach to a more youthful state.
Some of the many benefits of the Tummy Tuck that our Austin patients have discovered are:
The best candidates for getting a tummy Tuck in Austin, TX with our team of experts is anyone who meets the following criteria:
If you are in the Austin area and are interested in a Tummy Tuck, the first thing you will need to do is schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. During this consultation, you will be able to discuss your desires for the surgery, ask any questions, and will receive a personal evaluation. The doctor will also ask about your medical and health history. When you are in this portion of your consultation, we strongly encourage you to be honest with your doctor. Transparency allows your surgeon to make the best surgical plan for you, as well as prevent any potential risks.
Once you agree with the plan made for you, you will need to schedule your surgical date with our Patient Coordinator. They will also be providing you with some instructions to follow before your surgery to have the best outcome.
Personique® performs tummy tucks in Austin on both men and women alike. There are several different variations of the procedure that range from a mini tummy tuck to full abdominoplasty. The technique that is best for you will depend on your situation and how much excess skin and fat needs to be removed.
Once the anesthesia has been administered, a horizontal incision is made just below the bikini area. The length of this incision depends on the amount of excess fat and skin to be removed. The incision can typically be concealed under most swimsuits and undergarments.
Your surgeon will then place sutures in the fascia of the abdominal muscles. The muscles are then pulled and stitched back together at the body’s mid-line to create a flatter tummy shape.
Once the muscles have been repaired, excess fat is removed either by liposuction, manual extraction, or both.
Next, the skin is pulled down over the incision line and the excess skin is excised.
At this point, your surgeon will cut a hole in the re-draped skin and suture it around your navel to fashion a new belly button.
Finally, once the skin is secured in place, your incisions are closed up.
The result is a tighter, flatter midsection.
Most of our tummy tuck procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and patients can return home the same day of the surgery. You will need to arrange for a family member or trusted friend to pick you up from the clinic. It is recommended to have someone stay with you for the first day or so to help out during this time.
Abdominoplasty recovery for the first week after surgery will likely consist of minor bruising and swelling. Some pain and discomfort may be experienced in the first few days, which can be controlled with medication prescribed to you by your doctor. Your level of pain will depend on the extent of your tummy tuck procedure, as well as your pain tolerance. After a few days, pain and swelling will begin to dissipate. Some bruising may remain but this will go away with time as well.
You will be given instructions on showering and changing your dressings post-op. Most doctors will recommend that a surgical garment be worn the first few weeks after surgery to reduce swelling. You may also be instructed to wear a compression hose for a period of time to reduce the risk of clots forming in the legs. Though you should minimize physical activity for the first few weeks, patients are encouraged to begin light walking as soon as they can to promote the healing process and prevent clots. However, too much exercise initially can actually hinder tummy tuck recovery.
As long as you follow your surgeon’s post-op directions, your tummy tuck recovery should go smoothly and most patients are back at work within 10 days. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled for after your procedure. These appointments will provide your surgeon with feedback on your tummy tuck recovery and you can get answers to any questions or concerns you may have regarding your tummy tuck recovery period. The first follow-up appointment is typically for drain removal, which may or may not coincides with the removal of your sutures. Depending on the extent of your abdominoplasty procedure, your surgeon may require you to come in more or less frequently.
Your new figure may be visible within a week of your surgery and will continue to improve over time as the swelling goes down.
The cost of a tummy tuck in Austin, TX varies from patient to patient and depends largely on the extent of the procedure. For instance, a mini tummy tuck will generally be less expensive than a more complicated full tummy tuck that requires more time in surgery and additional work for the surgeon.
Personique has years of specialized training combined with decades of experience that have allowed our Austin plastic surgeons to refine and develop their skills and techniques to a high level of professionalism and expertise. For the last 4 decades, we have continued to be recognized as one of the top plastic surgery centers in America. Through a blend of advanced surgical skills and an innate sense of artistry, our doctors have earned the trust of so many satisfied patients.
Is a Tummy Tuck painful?
In the first few weeks following your Tummy Tuck, you can expect to experience some medium-level pain, or at least some discomfort, during the first week. Your belly will be sore and swollen but may be more comfortable if you continue to use compression garments.
How many appointments will I need?
Most patients will have between 3 to 6 follow-up appointments after their Tummy Tuck surgery. These appointments are usually at week 1, week 2, and week 6. Post-op pictures are typically taken during the 3rd check-up. Your doctor will be able to give you a better idea of how many times you will need to return and how often.
How long until I see results?
Depending on the technique performed for your Tummy Tuck, your general health, and skin laxity, most patients see their finalized results around 2 – 3 months.
Can I combine a Tummy Tuck with other procedures?
Many of our patients will combine their Tummy Tuck with other body procedures such as Breast Augmentation, Liposuction, or a Thigh Lift. If you are interested in having any other cosmetic procedure performed, please discuss your desires with the plastic surgeon during your consultation. They will be able to recommend the best procedures to help you obtain your preferred appearance.
What are the risks associated with a Tummy Tuck?
Every surgery has its potential risks and side effects, and despite our doctors’ best efforts to provide positive outcomes for every procedure, these are the following risks associated with a Tummy Tuck:
If you begin to experience concerning reactions or have long-lasting side effects, please contact our office immediately.
If you are in the Austin area, or are planning on being in the area, and are looking into a Tummy Tuck, please call us at 512-459-6800 or schedule an appointment through our website and one of our team members will get back to you shortly. Our team of board-certified professionals will be able to help you get a flatter, firmer stomach in no time!
– Ray Velez
– John P
