An abdominoplasty, often called a “tummy tuck,” is a popular procedure used to flatten and shape the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin, and tightening muscles. Our well-practiced surgeons have been performing tummy tucks with excellent cosmetic results for many years. Patients love the look of their new flat stomachs after surgery under our exceptional care.
What Is Abdominoplasty?
The best candidates for a tummy tuck are in good physical condition with pockets of fat or loose skin that haven’t responded well to traditional diet and exercise. This procedure can also benefit older, slightly obese people whose skin has lost some of its elasticity.
Tummy tucks can also be useful for women with stretched skin and muscles from pregnancy.
Results from the tummy tuck procedure will likely diminish if women continue to bear children, so we advise patients who plan to become pregnant to consider postponing this procedure until they are done having children.
We also encourage patients who intend to lose a lot of weight to wait before undergoing the procedure, because skin in the abdominal area typically loosens after substantial weight loss.
Click below to watch Dr. Walden on Austin’s KVUE on her “Looking Good and Living Well with Dr. Jennifer Walden” discussing Mommy Makeovers, which combines a breast augmentation and/or lift with tummy tuck:
Mommy Makeover Austin, Texas
Candidates for Tummy Tuck
The best candidates for a tummy tuck are in good physical condition with pockets of fat or loose skin that haven’t responded well to traditional diet and exercise. This procedure can also benefit older, slightly obese people whose skin has lost some of its elasticity.
Tummy tucks can also be useful for women with stretched skin and muscles from pregnancy. Results from the tummy tuck procedure will likely diminish if women continue to bear children, so we advise patients who plan to become pregnant to consider postponing this procedure until they are done having children.
We also encourage patients who intend to lose a lot of weight to wait before undergoing the procedure, because skin in the abdominal area typically loosens after substantial weight loss.
Customized Treatment for Optimal Cosmetic Results
We take the time during every preoperative consultation to learn what patients want to achieve from a tummy tuck, both for their bodies and for their self-confidence. By listening to what you have to say and giving you a thorough physical examination, we’ll provide you with a completely customized treatment that takes into account your specific goals, rather than performing a one-size-fits-all procedure.
The Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Procedure
Tummy tucks take approximately two to five hours and are performed under general anesthesia. This procedure may be performed on an inpatient or outpatient basis, depending on the complexity of your surgery and our Dr. Walden's recommendation.
Surgery involves two incisions: one from hipbone to hipbone close to the pubic area, and another around the navel.
They will separate the skin from the abdominal muscles, which are then pulled together and stitched into place for a firmer abdomen and narrower waist. The skin flap is then stretched down and over the newly tightened muscles, excess skin is removed, and the navel is reattached in a natural position. Lastly, our doctors will close the incisions and apply sterile surgical dressings over the sutured areas.
Recovery After Tummy Tuck
After surgery, compression garments are worn and a temporary tube may be inserted under the skin to drain excess fluid from the surgical site. Recovery time ranges from two weeks to a few months. You should limit strenuous activity for at least six weeks, and may need to take off from work for up to a month. We will give you specific instructions for your individual recovery. Following these instructions can help speed up your recovery, and reduce the risk of any post-surgery complications.
Tummy Tuck Results
A tummy tuck leaves you with a flatter, more-toned abdominal area that fits the natural contours of your body. It can improve your appearance and confidence by helping you look and feel younger and slimmer. The results of this procedure are visible right away, and continue to improve. With a balanced diet and regular exercise, results are long-lasting. Scars will fade with time, leaving your stomach sleeker and more defined than ever before.
Partial Abdominoplasty (Mini Tummy Tuck)
Partial abdominoplasty, or “mini tummy tuck,” is similar to the regular tummy tuck procedure, except it involves a shorter incision and the skin is lifted only to the navel, which does not have to be moved.
This procedure is ideal for patients who need just a little improvement in order to reach their desired results. You can discuss the differences between these procedures, as well as weigh their benefits and risks with our doctors, in order to decide which procedure is best for you.
Contact us today to schedule a tummy tuck consultation, and find out if you can benefit from this effective procedure.
Patient Reviews
“Dr. Walden made me feel very comfortable. She explained the procedure and answered all of my questions. She was not in a hurry to get me out of her office. The staff members were extremely friendly and answered any questions I had about the procedure. Dr. Walden showed concern about me and my well being after surgery if I elected to have it done. Most doctors/surgeons don’t impress me, but her knowledge and overall personality won me over. I was also impressed with how clean and comfortable the office and rooms were. I have scheduled my surgery for Oct and can not wait to have it done. I have and would recommend Dr. Walden and her staff to anyone considering any kind of surgery.” Tummy Tuck Patient of Jennifer Walden, MD
