Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas

Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) actually refers to several procedures that Dallas plastic surgery patients have benefited from to correct abdominal skin laxity that may have resulted from pregnancy or weight gain. Abdominoplasty restores abdominal contour and a flat abdominal profile while keeping scars low in the bikini line. Poor abdominal contour may be the result of all three layers of the abdominal wall (skin, fat and muscle) being stretched causing the abdomen to "pooch." This abdominal "pooch" may be resistant to diet and exercise and can cause great difficulty in finding clothing that will effectively camouflage it.

If you're ready to find out more about how to banish that "pooch," click to request $100 off your consultation and come in to talk with Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Steve Byrd today.

My Approach

There are many ways to perform abdominoplasty in Dallas, Texas. The four approaches I commonly use are:

• Full Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
• Belt/Tuck (Belt Lipectomy)
• Mini Tuck (Mini Abdominoplasty)
• Float (Umbilical Float)

Full Tummy Tuck

Tummy Tuck Patients
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Full tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is ideal for Dallas cosmetic surgery patients who have seen all three layers of the abdomen have been stretched beyond their limits. In these cases not only does the skin need to be tightened to return to a flat, youthful look, but also any remaining excess fat in the flanks and upper abdomen must be removed to restore the desired shape. The skin from above the umbilicus to the pubic bone is removed in a full abdominoplasty and the umbilicus (belly button) is restored to its normal position.

Belt Lipectomy

Belt (or circumferential) lipectomy gives Dallas women who have skin laxity extending beyond their abdomen to areas around the waistline and upper hips a choice in regaining a trimmer mid-section. In cases where liposuction alone won't adequately define the waistline due to excess skin in the rear, a belt lipectomy is frequently the answer. It also causes a lift of the outer thigh and buttocks as an added bonus. Patients seeking a lift to the butt or thighs may find the belt lipectomy to be their desired procedure.

Mini Tummy Tuck

Mini tuck (mini abdominoplasty) can be used very successfully to correct fullness caused by excess skin that is limited to the lower abdomen. It avoids a scar around the belly button inherent with the other tummy tuck procedures. The mini tuck removes the excess skin and tightens the muscles between the umbilicus and the pubic bone, and limited liposuction removes any remaining fat causing unwanted fullness or "pooch."

Comparing the Types of Abdominplasty Surgeries

Umbilical Float

Float (umbilical float) is often used in cases where more loose skin in present than can be removed with a mini tuck procedure. This procedure is used only in cases where there is not enough upper abdominal skin to allow for a full abdominoplasty and where the belly button is positioned relatively high. In these cases, the belly button is detached from the abdominal wall and moved down to a lower, more normal position while allowing the upper abdominal skin to be tightened.

Are You A Candidate?

Men and women who are healthy and in relatively good shape, near their target weight but bothered by a disproportionate, large or fleshy midsection that doesn't respond to diet or exercise are ideal candidates for a tummy tuck procedure of some kind. Older patients whose skin has lost much of its elasticity are also likely to have outstanding results from this procedure as well.

How the Procedure is Performed

The Consultation

Prior to your consultation in our Dallas plastic surgery office you might not know if you need liposuction or a tummy tuck. Your surgeon should listen to your concerns and your goals and then guide you through the options available to determine what would be best way for you to reach your expectations. After a physical exam, the surgeon will be able to determine what type of tummy tuck would work best for your body and your individual situation.

Day of Surgery

Prior to sedation, patient and surgeon will confirm the procedure and expected outcome. A detailed marking of the procedure area will be done often requiring the patient to both stand and sit as marks are applied.

Surgery

An incision is made to remove the redundant skin. The belt/tuck incision extends around to the top of the hips and onto the back. Any repairs needed to muscle and skin will be made and excess skin removed. You'll awaken from surgery with a slightly swollen, but trimmer, toner midsection.

Abdominoplasty surgery carries little risk and can be done as an outpatient procedure in any accredited facility using general anesthesia. The majority of my cases are done at Dallas Day Surgery Center. The staff is exceptional and extremely skilled, and the facility is very comfortable for our patients and their families.

Recovery: What to Expect

With all the variations on the tummy tuck procedure for Dallas and Fort Worth residents, there's sure to be an answer for your particular "pooch." Why not call and make an appointment to find out? Our plastic surgery office is in downtown Dallas at 411 N. Washington Avenue. Call us at 214.821.966 for an appointment.