Tummy Tuck

Tummy Tuck Overview

A tummy tuck procedure removes the extra fat and skin from the abdominal area, and tightens muscles in the abdominal wall. The surgical procedure for a tummy tuck is called Abdominoplasty. The tummy tuck can be performed in several ways, from a mini-tummy tuck to a complete tummy tuck, depending on the degree of fat and skin removal required. This procedure should not be confused with liposuction where fat deposits are removed. Abdominoplasty should be considered a major surgical procedure.

Who Should Get Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck?

Dr. Roudner in Miami, Florida is a competent plastic surgeon who can help advise patients considering a tummy tuck. The procedure should not be used only as a way to lose weight, but for the person who has already successfully lost weight but still has a protruding belly that will not respond to exercise. Often a woman will consider abdominoplasty after having several babies and are left with sagging stomach muscles. Women considering having children are not recommended to have the procedure until after they have finished with child birth.

In consultation with Dr. Roudner in the Miami office, the potential tummy tuck patient will be informed about the actual procedure. The procedure can take Dr. Roudner anywhere from one hour to two and a half hours to complete, depending on the complexity of the operation. A general anesthesia is used to put the patient to sleep.

Mini or partial Abdominoplasty

This procedure is performed when the fat deposits to be removed are located below the navel area. It will require smaller incisions. The skin is separated beneath the belly button, which is not removed. This procedure will generally take only one hour to complete.

Complete Abdominoplasty

During this procedure Dr. Roudner will make an incision from hipbone to hipbone at the level of the patient’s pubic hair. This option is for patients who need more extensive fat removal and muscle tightening. Dr. Roudner opens the belly area and contours the skin, muscles and tissue as required.

After the tummy tuck procedure drainage tubes may have to be placed under the skin. These tubes will be removed by the Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Roudner after a few days.

Miami is the beauty capital. Many people enjoy the beautiful beaches in Miami and want to have bodies that look nice in swimwear. Dr. Roudner consults with clients not only in Miami, but from other areas who seek his expertise in reconstructive surgery. Tummy tuck patients are instructed on how to prepare for the surgery when seeking the care of Dr. Roudner.

Patients should eat a healthy diet before the surgery, as good nutrition plays an important role in healing. Dr. Roudner will also counsel patients who smoke to stop smoking before the surgery, and to not exercise vigorously beforehand. Anyone taking medications should discuss these with Dr. Roudner before the tummy-tuck procedure.

The Miami office of Dr. Roudner will always inform patients about the recovery time and expectations from the surgery. As this is considered major surgery, the patient should expect pain and swelling after the surgery. Dr. Roudner will prescribe pain medication, and explain that the patient can expect soreness to last several weeks or even months. A hand-held shower head or a bathroom chair is recommended.

Men and women in Miami will want to consult with the top Miami plastic surgeon, Dr. Roudner, when considering a tummy tuck operation. People in Miami want to look their best, so seek advice from Dr. Roudner when nature needs a little help.