Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Tummy tuck, clinically called abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure aimed at providing a flatter and firmer abdomen. In tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon will remove loose skin and excess fat, and in some cases, tighten the underlying muscles.
Dr. Paul Fortes is an eminent board certified plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck and other procedures for the breast, body and face. Dr. Fortes receives patients from Houston, Katy, TX, and surrounding communities.
Causes for Abdominal Fat
The need for a procedure such as tummy tuck may arise when a person develops excess abdominal fat, which eventually may lead to loose skin and weakened underlying muscles. This condition may not always be caused due to obesity or overweight. Men and women with moderate body weight may also develop a protruding belly with sagging skin. The causes could be sedentary lifestyle, multiple pregnancies, aging process, substantial weight fluctuations, or genetic factors.
Who is a Suitable Candidate?
Adults who are bothered by the presence of excess fat deposits, sagging skin and loss of contour in the abdominal area may consider tummy tuck plastic surgery procedure. The surgeon may recommend this surgery particularly if the fat pockets are stubborn and resistant to diet and exercise. A prudent candidate will have stable body weight and impressive general health to undergo this procedure. The candidate should be a non-smoker or ready to stop smoking several weeks before the surgery. Women candidates should ideally not have planned a pregnancy in the near future.
Preparation
As an experienced cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Fortes ensures that adequate preparation is put into place prior to a major procedure such as tummy tuck. He will conduct a medical evaluation and may require the patient to undergo a few medical tests. The patient will be required to refrain from smoking as well as avoid medications such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory and herbal supplements. Patients in Houston, Katy, TX, and surrounding areas have an opportunity to receive tummy tuck surgery from Dr. Fortes.
Surgical Procedure
Tummy tuck surgery may be performed using general anesthesia or local anesthesia with IV sedation. The surgeon will begin the procedure by placing an incision horizontally in the area between the navel and the pubic hairline, or another pre-determined location. Length and shape of the incision can vary according to the extent of fat and skin removal required.
Excess fat and skin will be excised through the incision, and underlying abdominal muscles may be repaired and sutured. In a full tummy tuck, a second incision around the navel may be placed to remove loose skin from the upper abdominal area. Once the procedure is over, the surgeon will close the incisions with sutures or skin adhesive.
Recovery
Most patients may experience mild pain and discomfort in the first three to four days following tummy tuck surgery. This can be managed with pain medications. The patient will be required to take off from work for about 10 to 14 days, and may perform only mild activities at home during this period. Vigorous movements and exercises should be avoided for at least a month.
For more information about the cosmetic surgery treatments and procedures performed by Houston | Katy TX Plastic Surgeon Dr. Paul F. Fortes please click here or call 713-489-7996.
