Abdominoplasty
Many people have the problem of persistent fat deposits and loose skin on the abdomen that lingers in spite of attempts to tone the stomach through diet and exercise. If you reside in Northern Virginia, abdominoplasty (also known as a tummy tuck) might be the solution.
In Fairfax, tummy tucks are a popular procedure for post-bariatric patients that have recently lost a great deal of weight after gastric bypass surgery and are left with excess folds of skin. Abdominoplasty is also typically a component of the "Mommy Makeover," for women who want to restore their bodies after pregnancy. Dr. Andrew Goldberg and Dr. Mitchel Krieger have over 35 years of combined experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery. They have the training and experience to customize your surgery to your specific needs.
If you are interested in learning more about this life-changing surgery, click here to request a complimentary consultation with one of our abdominoplasty specialists.
Tummy Tucks - Procedural Information
What is Abdominoplasty?
For people in Virginia, abdominoplasty, can be an excellent procedure for removal of extra fat or skin in the midsection. Women who have had multiple pregnancies - or anyone whose abdominal area has not responded to exercise - may have a sagging stomach that can benefit from a tummy tuck. This procedure removes excessive skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles, giving the patient a flatter and smoother waistline. With a full tummy tuck, our surgeons can address the upper and lower abdominal areas. A mini tummy tuck is a slightly scaled-back abdominoplasty which addresses only the area below the navel.
The Procedure
At our facilities in Fairfax County, tummy tucks are performed under general anesthesia, which is administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist. A full tummy tuck requires a horizontal incision that runs between the two pelvic bones just above the pubic area. The surgeons take great care to assure that the resulting scar will be well-concealed in underwear or a bikini bottom. The exact length and positioning of the incision will depend on the degree of correction that is needed.
Through this incision, your surgeon will repair weakened abdominal muscles by "corseting" or suturing them together. Liposuction is often used during abdominoplasty to remove excess fat in the abdomen and contour the flanks. Then, a second incision around the navel is usually required for the removal of extra skin in the upper abdomen. The incision will be closed with sutures or skin adhesives, and a small, thin tube may be placed temporarily beneath the skin for the drainage of any blood or fluid that accumulates.
Recovery and Results
There will be dressings on your incisions, and you will be fitted with an elastic compression garment to minimize swelling and provide support. Our abdominoplasty patients typically spend the first night in the hospital, then are released with specific instructions for aftercare. Your activities will be strictly limited for the first 1 to 2 weeks, though you are encouraged to do some light walking to avoid the risk of blood clot formation. After this initial period, our tummy tuck patients can resume light exercise and activity, proudly beginning to show off a slimmer, tighter mid-section.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, and results will vary slightly from patient to patient depending on a variety of factors. To assure a satisfying outcome, it is critical that you choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing abdominoplasty, such as Drs. Goldberg and Krieger.
To find out more about tummy tuck surgery, click here to request a complimentary consultation with the abdominoplasty specialists at Goldberg & Krieger Board Certified Plastic Surgeons. Or, you can call our office toll free at 888-245-6513 to make an appointment.
