BODY TUMMY TUCK

Body Procedures

Tummy Tuck

For patients who are at or near their ideal weight and just can’t seem to get rid of an unsightly, bulging stomach, a tummy tuck can be the perfect solution.

San Antonio Tummy Tuck specialists at STARS Plastic Surgery, will remove excess fat and skin in the abdominal region and tighten weakened abdominal muscles. A tummy tuck can even correct stretch marks on the stomach for a more aesthetically appealing look. The most common candidates for tummy tucks are women post-pregnancy, aging patients, and those who have had significant weight fluctuations.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

FULL TUMMY TUCK

In patients who undergo a full tummy tuck, the incision is made from hip to hip just over the pubic area. This results in a scar line that is horizontal and can be hidden when wearing undergarments. It is commonly performed on women with significant skin folds after multiple pregnancies. This technique allows the surgeon access to a large portion of the abdomen while repositioning the belly button so that its placement appears natural. The internal abdominal muscles are secured for a firm, toned appearance. Liposuction is a common addition to this procedure to remove excess fat prior to skin tightening.

MINI TUMMY TUCK

An alternative to the traditional technique is the mini tummy tuck, which is also known as a “Brazilian tummy tuck.” The difference is that ideally, the patients that undergo this procedure are already in relatively good shape with a healthy skin tone, but still have loose skin on the lower abdomen. Unlike the full tummy tuck, the belly button is unaffected, and the incision is smaller.

EXTENDED TUMMY TUCK

In cases when major skin tightening and body contouring is needed, an extended tummy tuck is recommended. This is a necessary technique for patients who have undergone a significant weight loss. It was developed after some patients noted that even after a full tummy tuck, the parts surrounding the abdomen still showed excessive folds of skin. The incision may extend around the navel, flank, and lower back depending on where skin tightening is necessary. Similar to a full tummy tuck, the belly button is repositioned.

DURING/AFTER SURGERY

A tummy tuck is done under general anesthesia. It is an outpatient procedure, but an overnight stay can be required specific to complex cases. As with any other surgery, abdominoplasty comes with risks, so it’s best to discuss any health conditions you have before surgery. After surgery, pain medications are provided and a compression garment is worn. The patient will need to rest for up to 48 hours. From then, it is recommended that patients make a concentrated effort to move around to help with blood circulation, as well as to reduce the risks of blood clot complications. Recovery may take up to 6 weeks.

Tummy Tuck Before & After Gallery

View More Galleries

Tummy Tuck FAQs

Do I Need A Tummy Tuck Or Liposuction?

Tummy tucks are reserved for patients who have stretched, loose skin in the lower abdomen as a result of pregnancy or obesity. Liposuction, on the other hand, is for those who want to remove excess fat in the abdomen but still have a healthy skin tone. During the initial consultation, we will provide a thorough assessment to determine if liposuction alone is all that is needed, or if a tummy tuck will provide the best results.

What Is A Mommy Makeover?

Normally, abdominoplasty is performed to improve loose skin and remove excess fat around the abdomen area. However, sometimes other cosmetic procedures, such as breast augmentation or a breast lift, are done to further improve the overall look and feel of the body. When this combination type surgery exists, it is known as a “mommy makeover.” It is very popular among women after pregnancy who wish to get their pre-pregnancy body and shape back to normal.

How Bad Are Tummy Tuck Scars?

Unfortunately, with a tummy tuck surgery, scars are unavoidable. However, extra measures are taken to make sure that scarring is minimal. The incision line is placed in areas that can be concealed by undergarments. Previous C-section scars will be incised in the same spot for the tummy tuck. During the healing process, we will provide a post-operative protocol that includes scar treatment to help assist the scars in becoming less visible.

What Happens If You Have A Tummy Tuck And Get Pregnant?

We recommend that women who are planning to have more children delay do not undergo a tummy tuck procedure. The stretching of the skin as a result of another pregnancy can reduce the positive outcome of this procedure.

Articles on Body Procedures

What Our Clients Are Saying About Our Tummy Tuck Procedures

Why STARS?

Various Procedures

From facelifts and breast work to Botox and laser treatments, we have the staff and technology to make you look and feel your best through every decade of life.

Plastic Surgery Experts

Our seasoned and skilled board-certified plastic surgeons perform the latest treatments, all in certified ambulatory surgi-centers and hospitals with board-certified anesthesiologists.

Affordable Pricing

Enhance your looks and bring out your best features without breaking the bank. Your STARS plastic surgeon will work with you to give you that natural look that you can afford.

Modern Facilities

We provide the latest techniques and procedures, assisted with state-of-the-art tools and technologies for consistent, natural and gorgeous results.