Save $400 on a Tummy Tuck performed by well known Southlake Plastic Surgeon

A mini tummy tuck, or partial abdominoplasty, may be recommended for patients that are within 10% of their ideal body weight. This procedure is less invasive and can be done on an outpatient basis. While a full tummy tuck involves an incision around the navel and across the lower abdomen, a mini tummy tuck leaves the navel intact and requires a smaller incision. Liposuction is sometimes employed and the fat is removed from below the navel, tightening muscles from the navel to the pubis.

If your abdominal muscles require more extensive tightening and your body weight is more than 20% above your ideal weight, your plastic surgeon is more likely to recommend a full abdominoplasty. This frequently is performed with liposuction to obtain the best results.

Tummy Tuck

The illustration on the left shows the incisions used for a partial abdominoplasty, or mini tummy tuck. The illustration on the right shows the incisions used for a full abdominoplasty, or full tummy tuck.

The final decision on whether to undergo a mini tummy tuck or full tummy tuck should be made with a board certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Kasden.

Review tummy tuck before and after photos here:

http:// www.dr.kasden.us

Recovery

Pain Level: Moderate to severe discomfort. 1-2 weeks of pain medication
Swelling: 2-6 weeks
Bruising: No bruising
Numbness: 6 months or more
Bandages: Changed in 2-5 days (sutures removed first 7-10 days)
Work: Return to desk job after 1 week, other jobs 10-14 days
Exercise: Wait 4-8 weeks
Final result: After scars heal, approximately 6 months-1 year

For the first few days after abdominoplasty surgery, the abdomen will probably be swollen and some pain and discomfort may occur which can be controlled by medication. Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may be released within a few hours or remain hospitalized for two to three days.

The incisions will be covered with surgical tape for 2 weeks to insure proper healing.

For faster recovery:

• Walk around every hour or so and flex your feet to prevent blood clots in the calf veins
• Keep your hips gently flexed for the first week to prevent tension on the sutures
• Do not shower until the drains have been removed (sponge baths until drains removed)
• Do not bathe for the first 2 weeks (showers permitted after drains removed
• Be careful of surgical tape when showering
• Limit any activity that causes discomfort
• Carefully follow your doctor's instructions