What is abdominoplasty or tummy tuck?
An abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure to help remove excess skin and fat of the abdomen that normally is left after pregnancy, weight loss and age.
Who is a candidate?
Good candidates are generally in good health, which means no active diseases or existing medical conditions. For females, Dr. Mark Bishara recommends to wait until they are done having children.
How is a tummy tuck done?
Dr. Mark Bishara begins with marking the area. The nurses will then begin to prep you for the procedure. A tummy tuck is done under general anesthesia. Dr. Mark Bishara incision is made across the lower abdomen above the pubic bone. The incision usually goes from hip to hip. Dr. Mark Bishara will also make an incision around the belly button. The skin is pulled down toward the pubis and sutured. A new hole will then be made to suture in the belly button. Drains are placed to allow fluids to drain for a couple of days. Drains look like small grenades and they need to be drained as needed. Drains will then be removed couple days typically 3-5 days after.
What should i expect after tummy tuck?
After your tummy tuck you will be able to walk. Walks are encouraged to take at least 3 to 4 times a day for a few minutes. You will not be able to stand completely straight for several days. The incision area will feel tight. An abdominal pressure garment will need to be used for several weeks to help hold everything in place while the healing part is complete.
How soon can i start exercising?
Light exercising and walking can be resumed a week post procedure. For more strenuous activities the patient is recommended to wait 6 weeks.
How soon will i see results?
Once the drains are removed and any swelling that occurred has gone away you will be able to notice the difference. It will take time but once your body is completely healed you will begin to see the many benefits of the tummy tuck.
Should i get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
Yes, although it is recommended for the patients to be done with having children so that the benefits of the tummy tuck are not lost.
Will i be able to start a scar treatment after a tummy tuck?
After a tummy tuck you want to let the incision heal. Dr. Mark Bishara recommends about 6 weeks post procedure for any scar treatment.
TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR TUMMY TUCK SERVICES, PLEASE CONTACT US (817) 473-2120 OR EMAIL APPOINTMENTS@MARKBISHARAMD.COM TO SCHEDULE ANÂ APPOINTMENT.