Body Surgical Procedures
Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck
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Often, factors such as multiple pregnancies and genetics can contribute to the development of loose skin, fat deposits, and stretch marks in the abdominal region. Even substantial weight loss can contribute to the development of loose skin in the abdomen. As these areas typically persist despite proper diet and exercise, they can make the abdomen appear disproportionate with the rest of the body.
Surgery Preparation/Tummy Tuck
The length of a tummy tuck procedure can vary depending on the extent of tissue removal, or the necessity for an additional procedure such as liposuction. However, most full tummy tuck procedures last approximately two to five hours. Prior to the start of your tummy tuck procedure, the treatment area will be cleansed and incision guidelines will be drawn. For complex procedures, which involve the removal of a large amount of tissue, or are performed in conjunction with another procedure, general anesthesia will likely be administered. Conversely, a local anesthetic and sedative may be administered for less complex procedures, which will help you stay comfortable and relaxed.
How a Mini Tummy Tuck Works
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A partial tummy tuck works by removing loose skin, fat deposits, and stretch marks from the lower abdominal region below the navel. In addition, vertical abdominal muscles that have stretched and weakened over time are tightened, restoring the appearance of a firmer, flatter abdomen. Tummy tuck procedures can be performed alone, but are often performed with liposuction to further improve body contours. A tummy tuck should not be considered as a treatment for obesity, or a substitute for proper diet and exercise. Individuals considering a tummy tuck procedure should be healthy and relatively fit. Future pregnancies and substantial changes in body weight following a tummy tuck procedure, as well as the presence of scars from prior surgical procedures may decrease the effectiveness and longevity of treatment.
Liposuction
Often, localized fat deposits may develop in various regions of the body. These regions usually persist in spite of proper diet and exercise, which contributes to the disproportionate appearance of the figure. Liposuction works by removing excess fat tissue, which reshapes body contours and creates a slimmer appearance. Liposuction can be performed alone, but can also be performed with other procedures such as the tummy tuck. Liposuction is not an effective treatment for cellulite or obesity. Individuals who consider liposuction should be healthy and relatively fit, have firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone, and be within 30% of their ideal weight.
Tumescent Fluid Injection
While there are several different liposuction techniques, the tumescent technique is the most common type of liposuction procedure. Prior to removing fat, tumescent fluid is injected into the treatment area through a large hollow device known as the cannula. This solution, which is composed of saline solution, lidocaine, and epinephrine, helps to numb the treatment area, control blood loss, and facilitate fat removal.
Liposuction Technique
Dr. Gabriel will insert the liposuction cannula into the fat layer beneath your skin. Using a forward and backward motion, the surgeon will use the cannula to loosen and break apart the fat tissue in the area. A suction device, such as a surgical vacuum that has been attached to the opposite end of the cannula, is used to remove the fat. In some instances, the fat may be removed manually using a syringe that has been attached to the cannula. Following the procedure, the incisions will likely be closed with stitches, although some incisions are so small that they can heal without stitches.
Liposuction Recovery
You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising following the procedure. Your physician may suggest that you wear a compression garment for two to six weeks, which will be an important part of your recovery process. A compression garment is tight-fitting, and holds the tissues together, while providing comfort and support as you heal. The compression garment controls swelling by preventing fluid build up in the treatment area, and also helps the skin conform to the new contours of the body.
Content courtesy of plasticsurgery.org
