Tummy Tuck in Houston, TX

The ideal male and female modern body includes flat, toned abs, but this is not always achievable through natural means. Even with a healthy diet and exercise, some people may still have stubborn pockets of fat in their stomachs or loose, sagging skin that prevents their ideal body shape. An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, removes excess fat and skin from the torso and tightens the muscles for a flat, firm stomach. Houston, TX plastic surgeon Dr. Rafi Bidros performs tummy tuck surgeries that are customized to each patient, which may involve a full tummy tuck, a mini-tummy tuck (for the lower stomach pooch), an extended tummy tuck, a lower body lift, or a full body lift.

A tummy tuck is a common part of an after weight loss surgical plan to remove excess skin and fat as a finishing touch after a significant amount of weight is lost. A mommy makeover also typically includes a tummy tuck to remove stretch marks and correct the effects of pregnancy and childbirth. If you can't seem to get the abdominal results you want, schedule a consultation with Dr. Bidros at MyBodyMD in Houston, TX to learn more about your tummy tuck options.

Sagging skin around the middle can make you feel self-conscious and may also cause some problems with hygiene. For example, skin folds can rub together and become irritated, trapping sweat and bacteria that lead to body odor. A tummy tuck at MyBodyMD removes this excess skin to create a smoother and more contoured midsection. Surgery makes it possible to stay clean and dry while also improving your self-image and confidence.

Tummy tuck surgery can be successful for both men and women. If you find yourself upset over sagging skin as well as pesky pockets of fat in the abdominal area, this surgical treatment can help give you a slimmer and more toned look. Dr. Bidros advises you to be at a healthy weight before undergoing this treatment. Tummy tuck surgery is not a weight-loss procedure — it treats loose skin. A form of liposuction is usually implemented during surgery to remove unwanted fat. If your tummy section has good skin laxity, but you are still unhappy with how your tummy looks and feels even though you have worked to lose weight, you may be a better candidate for liposuction. Women interested in abdominoplasty should be past pregnancy to make sure the surgical outcomes are not affected.

The most common method of tummy tuck is making an incision across the lower abdomen, a little above the pubic area, and beneath the bikini line. An incision is also made around the belly button to free it, and the skin is lifted. Next, the muscles are tightened, which provides a stronger abdominal wall, better posture, and makes the waist smaller. The skin is then lowered, and the excess is removed. A new opening is made for the belly button at the proper position. Dr. Bidros is meticulous in performing the opening for the belly button as it is one of the tell-tale signs of a tummy tuck. With special techniques, he re-creates a natural-appearing belly button, which is resistant to becoming either overly large or a small pinpoint.

Dr. Bidros prefers to perform this procedure using general anesthesia. Although, if the patient chooses, IV sedation is possible. Following your surgery, a dressing will be applied to your incisions, and you will be wrapped in a compression garment to limit swelling and to support your abdomen as it heals. A small drain tube is usually temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess fluid that may collect. You will have oral pain medication and preventive antibiotics to take. You will have specific instructions on how to care for the incision and early mobility restrictions.

After the swelling resolves, your tummy tuck will result in a flatter, firmer abdominal contour that is more proportionate with your body type and weight. Within a week of surgery, you should be able to stand fully upright and feel confident about your new slimmer profile.

What happens if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
While it is possible and safe to be pregnant after a tummy tuck, it is not advised. The pregnancy will alter the results of the surgery, which will require a second or mini tummy tuck to restore the original results. Dr. Bidros advises patients to wait until they are done having children before considering a tummy tuck.

Can a tummy tuck reduce the look of stretch marks and scars?
An added benefit of a tummy tuck is the removal of stretch marks from the abdomen for a more attractive final result. Dr. Bidros will also tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall for a firmer appearance. The incision for the tummy tuck is typically placed in the lower abdomen and, with proper scar care, should fade and blend into the normal skin so it can be easily concealed by a swimsuit or underwear.

What if I have an umbilical hernia?
In some cases, Dr. Bidros will be able to perform a tummy tuck that also repairs an umbilical hernia. During the consultation, Dr. Bidros will talk to you about your options based on your needs and goals to get your best results. Our office can also help you work with your insurance company to cover the cost of the hernia repair.

Should I be at a healthy, stable weight before a tummy tuck?
Dr. Bidros suggests that patients be at a healthy, stable weight before they consider a tummy tuck. The long-term results of your plastic surgery will be better if you are within 10 – 15 pounds of your goal weight. Gaining a significant amount of weight after the tummy tuck surgery will alter the results and may require revision surgery.

Many factors can result in a sagging stomach that leaves behind loose and wrinkled skin. We know it can be annoying and frustrating — abdominoplasty is usually the primary way to overcome this. If you are bothered by the stretched-out skin in your abdomen, no matter how minimal or severe, abdominoplasty by Dr. Rafi Bidros in Houston, TX can allow you to get the look you want. Please contact MyBodyMD today to learn more.