Tummy Tuck
As a board-eligible surgeon in Houston and The Woodlands, TX, Dr. Cassie Hartline is dedicated to using her surgical skill to restore and refresh with the goal of helping her patients feel like the best versions of themselves. She offers tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) to help patients achieve a firmer, tighter midsection.
What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a
Trusted Source
Tummy Tuck
Mayo Clinic
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tummy tuck
, is a surgical procedure to remove loose abdominal skin. During abdominoplasty, Dr. Hartline may also tighten abdominal muscles and remove small amounts of excess fat in order to contour the waist. She can also perform muscle repair to treat diastasis recti, which is a separation of the abdominal muscles that is common after pregnancy. The ultimate goal of abdominoplasty is to provide patients with a firmer, smoother, and more youthful abdominal appearance that allows them to feel comfortable and confident.
Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
While individual results vary,
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Four medical benefits of a tummy tuck
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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tummy tuck surgery
can:
- Restore abdominal appearance after pregnancy, aging, or significant weight loss
- Remove loose skin
- Repair separated abdominal muscles and strengthen the abdominal wall
- Eliminate some abdominal stretch marks
- Achieve a more sleek and youthful appearance
Improve confidence and self-esteem
What to Expect From Your Tummy Tuck
Dr. Hartline knows that the surgical process begins during your first meeting and continues throughout the recovery period. She is committed to being there for her patients every step of the way. While your custom-tailored treatment plan may vary, here is an outline of what you can expect from tummy tuck surgery:
Preparing for Tummy Tuck Surgery
If you are considering a tummy tuck, the first step is a consultation appointment. During this initial appointment, Dr. Hartline will take the time to discuss your goals and concerns and answer any questions you have. She will also review your medical history and examine you to determine if you are a candidate for abdominoplasty. If you decide to schedule surgery, Dr. Hartline and her team will provide you with detailed preoperative instructions. Note that if you smoke or use nicotine products, it is important that you stop at least two months before surgery.
Your Tummy Tuck Procedure
Abdominoplasty is an outpatient procedure that is performed with general anesthesia. The details of your procedure may vary according to your treatment plan, which Dr. Hartline will review with you prior to surgery. She will typically create an incision low on the abdomen, below the bikini line. She will then remove excess skin and stubborn pockets of fat. She may perform muscle plication to tighten the abdominal muscles. She will then redrape the skin and close the incision.
Dr. Hartline is known for delivering natural-looking tummy tuck results. Patients are often concerned about how their belly button or upper pubic area will look after tummy tuck surgery. Dr. Hartline takes great care with these areas in order to ensure that you look like a restored version of yourself.
Recovery After Tummy Tuck Surgery
You will need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home after surgery. You may have drains placed and you will need to wear special compression garments to help with swelling and wound healing. For pain management, Dr. Hartline typically administers Exparel, which is a long-lasting, opioid-free injectable that provides several days of pain relief and helps with a comfortable recovery. You will need to refrain from strenuous activity and working out for six weeks after surgery.
Contact Dr. Hartline
Are you ready to look and feel your best? Contact Dr. Hartline to learn more about tummy tuck surgery or schedule your consultation today to get started.
FAQs About Tummy Tuck Surgery
Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
Ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery are in good health and at a healthy, stable weight. While abdominoplasty is considered a cosmetic surgery, it can also provide physical relief for patients who are bothered by significant loose skin.
Is tummy tuck a weight loss surgery?
No, a tummy tuck surgery is not designed for weight loss. It is a plastic surgery to remove loose skin and small amounts of fat from the abdominal area. However, many patients who have had bariatric procedures decide to have tummy tuck surgery to remove loose skin after they have lost a significant amount of weight.
How long will I need to be away from work after tummy tuck surgery?
This can vary depending on how strenuous your work is. In general, you should expect to be out of work for a minimum of one week, but you may need more time off depending on your treatment plan and the activity level of your job.
Will I have a scar after tummy tuck surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery requires an incision that will result in some scarring, but Dr. Hartline takes care to create an incision that results in an easily hidden scar. She also has patients begin a scar management program six weeks after surgery to help tummy tuck scars fade as quickly as possible.
What are the risks of tummy tuck surgery?
Any surgical procedure carries some risk of side effects or complications. Dr. Harline places top priority on patient safety in order to minimize the risk of serious side effects. She will discuss all potential risks with you prior to your surgery to ensure you are fully informed.
Can I get a mini tummy tuck?
“Mini-abdominoplasty”, which uses a smaller incision than a full tummy tuck, is an option for patients who are concerned with their lower abdomen and have loose skin only below the belly button.
How long will my tummy tuck results last?
Tummy tuck surgery is permanent. However, future pregnancies or weight gain can cause skin to stretch or muscles to separate again.
Can I combine tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures?
Yes, abdominoplasty is frequently combined with liposuction for comprehensive body contouring. A tummy tuck is also commonly part of a mommy makeover or midlife makeover, in which women customize a treatment plan that may include breast augmentation or lift and other cosmetic procedures.
1 Mayo Clinic. Tummy Tuck. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tummy-tuck/about/pac-20384892 Accessed September 5, 2023
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Four medical benefits of a tummy tuck. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/four-medical-benefits-of-a-tummy-tuck Accessed September 5, 2023
Cassie Hartline M.D. has either authored or reviewed and approved this content
Page Updated: July 11, 2024