Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a popular surgical procedure that removes unwanted skin and fat in the abdomen for a smoother, more toned appearance. Where required, it can also repair abdominal muscles that have weakened and moved apart during pregnancy. In cases of massive weight loss, a tummy tuck can rid patients of unsightly loose skin in the midsection. If diet and exercise have failed to produce the desired results, abdominoplasty provides effective body contouring with long-lasting results. 

The abdominoplasty is a highly customizable surgery that can be tailored to the needs and aesthetic goals of each patient. It can also be combined with other procedures, such as a breast lift, breast augmentation, or the widely acclaimed LipoTuck™ for comprehensive enhancement. Most importantly, it can provide a much-needed confidence boost for patients who have tried unsuccessfully to get rid of hard-to-shift fat through other means.

At Avante Plastic Surgery in Houston, Texas, Dr. Ahmadi is dedicated to providing his patients with personalized abdominoplasty procedures that help them realize their goals. To book a personal consultation in Houston or Sugar Land, call (281) 265-2639 or fill out an online inquiry form for further details.

Before and After Photos

About Tummy Tucks

The abdomen is a prominent area of our body that plays a significant role in our overall appearance and self-confidence. Unfortunately, factors such as pregnancy, weight fluctuations, aging, and genetics can lead to excess skin, stubborn belly fat, and weakened abdominal muscles that are difficult to address through diet and exercise alone. 

What is Diastasis Recti?

Diastasis Recti, also known as abdominal separation, is a common condition that occurs during pregnancy or the postpartum period. It refers to the separation of the rectus abdominis muscles, which are the paired muscles that run vertically down the front of the abdomen. This separation happens when the connective tissue that holds these muscles together stretches and weakens.

Many women experience diastasis recti after pregnancy, as the growing uterus puts pressure on the abdominal wall. In fact, research shows that postpartum diastasis recti occurs in 30-68% of women. ⁽¹⁾ This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including a protruding belly, weak core muscles, lower back pain, and even hernias in some cases.

Post-Bariatric Surgery

After weight loss surgery is a transformative combination of procedures that address the excess skin and tissue that can remain after significant weight loss. Following a bariatric procedure such as a gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy, many individuals are left with loose, sagging skin. These issues can impact a patient’s self-confidence and hinder their ability to fully embrace their new bodies.

A modified abdominoplasty, combined with other procedures such as a facelift, arm lift, body lift, thigh lift, and breast lift can help patients who have reached their ideal weight achieve their ideal silhouette following their tremendous weight-loss accomplishment.

Choosing the Right Surgeon

Dr. Ahmadi is an expert surgeon who has perfected the art of abdominoplasty. He uses the latest in enhanced tummy tuck techniques, including a drainless technique for a faster recovery with reduced scarring. If you’re tired of feeling self-conscious about your post-pregnancy belly or experiencing discomfort due to excess skin and fat in the midsection, contact Avante today at (281) 265-2639 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ahmadi. Our Houston-based practice is dedicated to helping you achieve the aesthetic and functional results you desire.

Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Reduction of Excess Skin and Fat

Pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging can often lead to loose, sagging skin and stubborn fat deposits in the abdominal region. Dr. Ahmadi uses skillful surgical techniques to eliminate excess skin and fatty tissue, resulting in a flatter, more defined abdomen.

Improved Posture

A tummy tuck can have a positive impact on your posture and body alignment. By strengthening the core muscles and supporting structures, this procedure helps you maintain an upright posture, reducing strain on your back.

Elimination of Stretch Marks and Scars

Pregnancy or significant weight loss often leads to the development of stretch marks and scars on the abdomen. Dr. Ahmadi can remove these unsightly marks during a tummy tuck, leaving behind a smoother, more aesthetically pleasing abdominal area.

Enhanced Self-Confidence and Self-Esteem

Achieving a firmer and more youthful abdominal profile can significantly boost your self-confidence and improve your self-esteem. With a rejuvenated appearance, you’ll feel more comfortable and self-assured in various social and personal settings.

Increased Comfort

Excess abdominal skin and fat can make it challenging to find clothing that fits well and feels comfortable. Following a tummy tuck, you’ll experience greater comfort in your wardrobe choices and enjoy participating in physical activities without the hindrance of excess abdominal tissue.

Candidates

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are those who have experienced significant weight loss or post-pregnancy changes that have left them with loose, sagging skin and weakened abdominal muscles. They may be struggling with a persistent belly bulge despite their efforts to maintain a healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise. 

Although the tummy tuck is an effective surgery for many people, factors that may prevent treatment include. ⁽²⁾

Personal Consultation

When considering a tummy tuck, it is crucial to schedule a personal consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon. At Avante Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ahmadi is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized care to patients seeking body contouring solutions.

During your consultation at our state-of-the-art facility in Houston, Texas, Dr. Ahmadi will take the time to understand your specific concerns and goals. He will review your medical history and thoroughly examine your abdomen to assess the extent of excess fat, sagging skin, and muscle laxity. This comprehensive evaluation allows Dr. Ahmadi to tailor a treatment plan that suits your unique needs.

What is a LipoTuck™?

The LipoTuck™ procedure at Avante offers patients a comprehensive solution to achieve their desired body shape and boost their self-confidence. Dr. Ahmadi skillfully removes unwanted fat deposits using advanced liposuction techniques, sculpting not only the abdominal area, but also the back, hips, love handles, mons pubis, and axilla. Additionally, he tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles, effectively addressing any muscle laxity that may be contributing to a protruding belly. Finally, any excess skin is meticulously trimmed and re-draped for a smoother, more youthful contour.

Preparation

To ensure a smooth procedure and a swift recovery, we provide comprehensive preoperative instructions that are tailored to your specific needs. By diligently following these guidelines, you can maximize the benefits of your surgical experience.

Things to Avoid

One crucial step in preparing for your tummy tuck is discontinuing blood thinners, supplements, and any other medications that may interfere with the surgery or recovery process. Another vital aspect of preparation involves refraining from nicotine use in the weeks leading up to your surgery. Nicotine can impede proper healing and increase the risk of complications. It is crucial to remain nicotine-free throughout your recovery period to optimize your body’s healing capabilities.

Planning Ahead

Fill prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics ahead of time. This way, you can have them readily available at home, eliminating the need for last-minute trips to the pharmacy and allowing you to focus solely on your healing process. Since some tummy tucks require sedation or general anesthesia, arranging transportation is also imperative. We advise coordinating a ride home and an escort who can assist you during the initial stages of your recovery. Your safety and comfort are our utmost priority, and having someone accompany you ensures a smoother transition from the surgical facility to the comfort of your own home.

Finally, taking time off from work and social commitments is vital to allow your body ample opportunity to rest and recuperate.

Tummy Tuck Procedure

During a tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Ahmadi makes an incision along the lower abdomen, carefully placed to be concealed within the natural folds of the body. Through this incision, he removes excess skin and fat, then tightens and repairs the underlying abdominal muscles. This not only creates a smoother and firmer abdominal contour but also improves core strength and function.

The position of the umbilicus (belly button) may need to be adjusted. This step ensures that the belly button is positioned naturally and harmoniously with the newly sculpted abdomen.

In some cases, liposuction of the abdomen may also be performed to further enhance the overall contour and remove stubborn pockets of fat.

Recovery

The initial stage of healing involves placing a protective dressing and compression garment around your abdomen to support the surgical area and minimize swelling. It is normal to experience some swelling and bruising in the first few days after the surgery, as is taking prescribed medications to manage any discomfort or pain. It is important to keep the incision sites clean and dry, and attend follow-up appointments for Dr. Ahmadi to monitor your progress. He will provide guidance on when you can resume regular activities, including work and exercise, based on your individual healing process.

Results

The results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting, provided you maintain a healthy lifestyle. By following a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and practicing good self-care habits, you can enjoy the benefits of your tummy tuck for years to come.

Cost of a Tummy Tuck in Houston

The team at Avante Plastic Surgery believes in individualized care and attention to detail. We want to ensure that you receive the best possible results while considering your budgetary constraints. Dr. Ahmadi will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and financial considerations.

We invite you to arrange a consultation with us by calling (281) 265-2639, where we can discuss your goals, address any concerns, and provide you with a personalized plan for your tummy tuck procedure.

References

1. Qu E, Wu J, Zhang M, et al. The ultrasound diagnostic criteria for diastasis recti and its correlation with pelvic floor dysfunction in early postpartum women. Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery. 2021;11(2):706-713. doi:https://doi.org/10.21037/qims-20-596 
2. Rosenfield LK, Davis CR. Evidence-Based Abdominoplasty Review With Body Contouring Algorithm. Aesthetic Surgery Journal. 2019;39(6):643-661. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjz013