Cosmetic Surgery DFW · Fort Worth, Texas
Cosmetic Surgery DFW · Fort Worth, Texas
What a tummy tuck involves, from the procedure itself through recovery and results.
A mommy makeover is a series of body contouring procedures customized to give moms the opportunity to rejuvenate their bodies after pregnancy and nursing have taken their toll. During pregnancy, skin loses elasticity and the muscles in your breasts and lower abdomen become lax. Stretch marks often form over the lower abdomen or breasts.
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a body contouring procedure that helps women get their bodies back after childbirth. It is performed while you are asleep under general anesthesia. Once you’re sedated, we will make an incision at the base of the skin covering your abdominal wall. If your abdominal wall has been stretched out, we will sew these muscles together. Then, we will tighten the skin over your abdomen, trim off any excess, and close the incision with sutures. This procedure only takes two to three hours — however, if you’re getting it as part of a mommy makeover, expect to be under general anesthesia for three to eight hours.
Dr. Derrick will help you figure this out when you tell him about your concerns and goals. Here’s some food for thought:
Full abdominoplasty is ideal for women with concerns regarding their upper and lower abdomen. The abdominal wall above and below your navel will be tightened and the skin will be pulled down over the stomach. Once the excess skin is removed, your navel will be repositioned and the incisions will be closed.
If you are satisfied with your abdomen above your navel, a mini-abdominoplasty is probably right for you. This procedure addresses the stubborn belly pooch between the navel and mons pubis. The primary difference is your abdominal wall above your navel will not be tightened.
An extended abdominoplasty is similar to a full abdominoplasty, but a bit more extensive. It addresses unwanted skin on the hips and flanks as well, making it the perfect time to combine liposuction.
Give your body a breather. Take time to bond with your child and let your body recover from childbirth for at least six to 12 months before undergoing this procedure.
Surround yourself with a strong support system. After your procedure, your primary focus should be on recovery. Make sure someone can be home with you to keep you comfortable.
Arrange for transportation. You can’t drive for 24 hours after being under general anesthesia, so arrange a ride to and from our office.
Don’t take aspirin. Avoid aspirin, Motrin, vitamin E supplements, and certain herbal supplements for at least two weeks prior to your procedure, as these can thin your blood.
If you are dissatisfied with the appearance of your stomach, you’re probably a good candidate for a tummy tuck. During your initial consultation, Dr. Derrick will review your medical history, assess your current health, and evaluate your goals. In general, ideal candidates are done having children, are at a healthy and stable weight (within about 30 pounds of their ideal weight), have relatively elastic skin, and abstain from nicotine for at least two weeks before and after surgery.
If you have any questions about your mommy makeover, including a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with Dustin C. Derrick, MD at Cosmetic Surgery of DFW in Fort Worth today.