A toned and flat abdomen is something many people wish to have. When exercise, weight loss and weight control aren’t able to give you the abdomen you desire, a tummy tuck might be the solution. A tummy tuck is also an option for people who have an abdomen that protrudes or sags, even with normal body weight and proportion.
What Happens With A Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, creates a smoother and firmer abdominal profile through the removal of excess fat and skin. Most patients also see a restoration of weakened and/or separated abdominal muscles.
Which Tummy Tuck Is Right for You?
During your consultation with an Ocala plastic surgeon such as Dr. Tyrone, he will answer questions and discuss technical aspects of the procedure with you, including whether you are a good candidate for a complete or partial tummy tuck.
Complete
A complete tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin from the entire abdominal region. Your belly button is also moved during your tummy tuck surgery.
Partial or Mini
Partial, or mini, tummy tucks are done for patients whose fat deposits are below the belly button. The belly button often does not need to be moved during a partial tummy tuck.
Tummy Tuck Procedure
The overall procedures for complete and mini tummy tucks are similar, but we reference a complete tummy tuck in this information. Your Ocala plastic surgeon such as Dr. Tyrone will go over the process of a mini tummy tuck should it be appropriate for your needs.
Anesthesia
Anesthesia is administered through either intravenous sedation or general injection. Dr. Tyrone will recommend one or the other based on your circumstances.
Incision
For patients having a complete tummy tuck, a horizontal incision will be made between the pubic hairline and belly button. If you have excess skin in the upper abdomen, a second incision may be needed around the belly button. A shorter horizontal incision is made in the same area, between the belly button and pubic hairline, for a mini tummy tuck.
Tummy Tuck Itself
After the incisions are made, upper abdominal skin is pulled down and excess skin trimmed away. As the remaining skin is joined together, a new opening for your belly button is created. The belly button is moved into this opening and secured in position.
Closure of Incisions
The incisions are closed with either sutures, skin adhesives, tapes or clips.
Area(s) Of The Body Improved
When you have a tummy tuck in Ocala, you will see improvement in your abdominal area, specifically your stomach. The results are proportionate with your body weight and type.
What To Expect
After your tummy tuck surgery, dressings and/or bandages are used to cover the incisions. You will be wrapped in an elastic bandage or compression garment to minimize swelling. This will also provide support to your abdominal area as it heals. Dr. Tyrone and his staff will give you specific instructions on how to care for the area, medication and other information.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Ocala Tummy Tuck?
Men and women alike can be good candidates for a tummy tuck. Generally, this is if you:
- Are physically healthy and at a stable weight
- Have realistic expectations about the procedure
- Are a nonsmoker
Since a tummy tuck is not recommended as an alternative to weight loss, it should be done after you’ve lost the desired amount of weight. Also, it’s recommended women postpone having a tummy tuck until after they’re done having children. If you believe you are a good candidate for an Ocala tummy tuck, call Dr. Tyrone to schedule a consultation.
Other Procedures At The Same Time
A tummy tuck is often combined with other Ocala plastic surgery procedures. When patients choose to combine their tummy tuck with other procedures, it often reduces recovery time, and results are seen more quickly. Dr. Tyrone often performs the following forms of plastic surgery in Ocala along with a tummy tuck.
Liposuction
When combined with a tummy tuck, liposuction creates a defined torso region for the patient.
Breast Surgery
The breasts generally lose elasticity and shape following substantial weight loss, pregnancy and breastfeeding. Dr. Tyrone often performs breast surgeries such as breast augmentation, breast reduction and breast lifts with a tummy tuck.
Body Sculpting
Body sculpting usually includes a tummy tuck as it combines various forms of Ocala plastic surgery that change your whole body.
Why Choose Dr. Tyrone For Your Ocala Tummy Tuck
A board-certified physician, Dr. Tyrone provides high-quality plastic surgery in Ocala. He and his staff are dedicated to each patient attaining their ideal stomach appearance. From consultation to post-procedure recovery, we support you every step of the way. For a consultation or more information about a tummy tuck, call Dr. Tyrone today!