The surgical procedure done in this condition is known as a tummy tuck or an “abdominoplasty”. A tummy tuck involves removal of the excess hanging skin along with the underlying fat to give a flat and toned abdomen. this procedure tightens the abdominal muscles and gives a new, rejuvenated abdomen. The position of the umbilicus is also shifted to a more natural position.

the scar

A lot of patients are worried about the scar of the tummy tuck. It is reassuring to know that the scar can be placed according to the type of clothing that the patient prefers to wear, and it is not visible from under the lothing. Thus, if the patient wants to wear a particular type of bikini, we can site the scar accordingly. The scar can be shaped according to the type of jeans or dresses, which the patient may prefer. the scar is fine and tends to mature a lot over time.

how is tummy tuck done

Tummy tucks are done under general anesthesia. Markng for the incision and determination of the amount of tissue to be removed are done in the preoperative period. after the necessary amount of skin and fat has been removed the muscles are tightened. It is also possible to produce a shaping of the sides by tightening the muscles there.

what is mini tummy tuck

In a condition where there is not that much of lax skin and the position of the umbilicus is not too low, the surgery can be made less extensive and limited amount of skin can be removed and abdomen shaped. It is possible endoscopically to tighten the muscles of the upper abdomen to give a better shape and figure also

post operative period

the patient needs to have restricted physical activity for about 3 weeks after surgery. Gradual walking and light exercises should be done. Sexual activity must be avoided for 3 weeks and after that care to be maintained for another 3 weeks. Child birth is to be avoided for a period of 2 years. We cousel the patient to undergo a tummy tuck once she has completed the family.

why tummy tuck and not liposuction

the loose hanging skin does not retract well, as there is damage to the elastin fibres due to stretching. liposuctioin can only remove fat, and does nothing to the skin. Thus in the event of excess skin, it is practical to consider a tummy tuck. Liposuction is combined to shape the upper part of the tummy and give a “younger” look.

• Epidermis on the top – consisting of dying and dead cells in the process of being sloughed off
• The dermis – containing many structures such as hair follicles, sweat glands, blood vessels, oil glands and a matrix of collagen strands for support
• The sub-cutaneous layer – containing fat cells and more structures such as blood vessels

Support for youthful skin comes from the network of collagen fibers in the dermis. Collagen is a tough fibrous connective tissue found throughout the body. As we age, less collagen is produced and the skin’s supporting matrix weakens. This helps to cause lines and wrinkles. Although some skin lotions and creams contain collagen, this is not an effective way to put collagen into the skin. Lotions and creams enter the epidermis but do not penetrate to the dermis. How Thermage Works Thermage treatments are an effective way to tighten the skin’s collagen and stimulate growth of new collagen. It is done with radio energy.

A special wand called a ThermaTip™ sends radio waves through the epidermis and into the dermis and sub-cutaneous layers. This heats the three skin layers and the heat causes the collagen to tighten. The skin’s surface is not burned by this heat, as the Thermage system includes a cooling device. Results are both immediate and gradual. Over two to six months, the skin produces more new collagen fibers which restore support to the sagging skin. The new fibers are tighter because the existing ones were tightened by the Thermage treatment. Typically only one treatment is needed. This will be determined ahead of time between you and your cosmetic surgeon. No particular preparation is necessary and there is little time needed for recovery. You may have a little redness or swelling but they will fade in about 24 hours.

Results last for about six months, but may last for several years, depending on your particular skin condition and aging process. Thermage is most often used on facial areas – around the lips and eyes, on the forehead, jawline and nasolabial folds. It can also be very effective on the abdomen, hands, buttocks, arms, and thighs. Thermage treatments should be done only by qualified health professionals.

If you are in or near Orlando, Florida, you could visit the Bougainvillea Clinique, which is an excellent medical spa and cosmetic surgery center. Why not contact cosmetic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Hartog today and schedule a personal consultation?

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