Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale - Mesa Arizona

Abdominoplasty Article
Patti Flint MD

Many patients find their abdomen does not respond well to dieting and exercise; particularly female patients after child bearing. Structural changes in the abdominal wall that occur with pregnancy can be repaired with an abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck. During this procedure, the laxity in the abdomen is tightened, extra skin and fat are removed, and stretch marks that are below the belly button are removed.

Many patients are uncertain whether they are better candidates for liposuction or an abdominoplasty. An exam by a board certified plastic surgeon will provide the best answer. However, in general terms, if extra skin and stretch marks are present, liposuction alone may leave extra skin behind, and an abdominoplasty will provide better results. Liposuction will also not correct the lower abdominal protuberance that may occur following pregnancy due to laxity in the underlying abdominal wall tissue. An abdominoplasty provides correction of this laxity and a flatter abdomen.

Each patient’s trunk contours are different, and not all abdominoplasty’s are designed in the same manner. Depending on where and how much extra skin exists, the incision across the lower abdomen may be as short as six inches. In women who have lost a great deal of weight and have a larger amount of extra skin, the incision can extend past the hip bones. Dr. Flint prefers to uniquely design each procedure to suit the patient’s body, choice of clothing styles and goals.

Safety always comes first, and patients are generally advised to obtain a body weight as close to their ideal weight as they can, prior to surgery. Patient’s who smoke will be assisted in smoking cessation prior to surgery to insure better healing. If pre-existing health conditions exist, medical clearance by the patient’s primary doctor is obtained.

A general anesthesia is utilized and the abdominoplasty procedure is frequently completed in less than two hours. Patients are encouraged to walk the evening of surgery while they recover in the overnight stay facility. The following morning, you will be allowed to return home to continue your recovery. Most patients are able to return to work in two weeks. No lifting is allowed for six weeks to allow ample time for the abdominal wall to heal. Surprisingly to some patients, the recovery is very well tolerated, and results are predictably excellent. Dr. Flint would be very happy to see you in consultation. Please contact her staff at 480-945-3300 if you have questions or to schedule an appointment.

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For a tummy tuck in Scottsdale and in Mesa Arizona contact female board certified plastic surgeon Patti Flint, M.D.