What is an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Are you frustrated by the appearance of unwelcome bulges around the middle, “love handles”, and the dreaded “muffin top”? Loose skin, stretched-out stomach muscles, and extra tissue in the lower abdomen may be keeping you from truly getting the flat abdominal contour you desire. Unfortunately, no amount of diet and exercise can fully eliminate these problematic issues, and non-invasive techniques can only deliver small, incremental improvements. For patients seeking truly dramatic abdominal contouring, a surgical procedure known as an abdominoplasty is often the best option. By removing the extra skin and fat in the lower abdomen and repairing the underlying musculature, a “tummy tuck” is often the only way to get a firm and trim midsection.
Why you should Choose Dr. Ross Bunch for a Abdominoplasty
At Plastic Surgery of Tuscaloosa in the Tuscaloosa, AL area, Dr. Ross Bunch prides himself on delivering optimal abdominal contouring results with tummy tuck procedures. Dr. Bunch is a Board-certified plastic surgeon who keeps abreast of the latest surgical techniques and has the experience to provide maximum benefits to patients who seek a smooth and well-toned abdomen. Dr. Bunch will devise your treatment plan by working closely with you and listening attentively to your aesthetic objectives. We understand that selecting a surgeon for your procedure is a highly personal one and we value the trust our patients place in us by providing them with the highest quality care and the most optimal results possible!
Candidates for Tummy Tuck Surgery
Pregnancy and childbirth, weight fluctuation, time, and even heredity can affect the appearance of your abdomen and it can be difficult to know the best way to address this troublesome “problem zone”. Patients often question whether they would make a good candidate for a full tummy tuck or whether a less invasive fat reduction with liposuction would be the better option. The answer depends on your unique anatomy, and whether fatty deposits alone are the culprit behind your particular issues. Liposuction allows for reduction of fat deposits and is often combined with a tummy tuck in order to help shape the waist area, but on its own, liposuction does not improve the elasticity or tone of the skin. Therefore, if you are experiencing one or more of the following conditions, a tummy tuck procedure may be indicated:
- Excess skin and fat in your lower abdomen
- A protruding abdomen
- Weakened or stretched out abdominal muscles
- Crepey or sagging skin
- Stretch marks
What kind of Tummy Tuck procedures do you offer?
Not all tummy tuck procedure options are the same for everyone. The type of procedure that best suits you is dependent on your specific situation or concerns. The following are some of the options available to you:
- Mini-Tummy Tuck: A mini-tummy tuck is best suited for patients with minimal excess skin and fatty build-up in the lower abdomen only. The incision is about the same size as a C-section scar and placed very low in the abdomen in the pubic area. This can be done with or without muscle repair.
- Full or Standard Tummy Tuck: Most patients seeking a tummy tuck require a full tummy tuck. This procedure addresses all of the skin and fat from the belly button down and requires an incision that runs low on the abdomen from hip bone to hip bone with a cut-out incision also made around the belly button. Any stretch marks found in the lower abdomen are eliminated and the underlying muscles are repaired and tightened.
- Skin Only Tummy Tuck: A skin-only tummy tuck mirrors that of a standard tummy tuck only without muscle repair. This is done for patients who only have excess or flabby skin, but whose abdominal muscles do not need restoration.
See What Our Patients Are Saying!
“Great doctor and great staff. They were all so sweet to me during my plastic surgery journey. I couldn’t be happier with my results.” AR 7/19/16
Tummy Tuck Surgical Procedure
All tummy tuck surgeries are performed under general anesthesia. Surgery may require the use of drains to allow for the removal of excess fluids after surgery. These can usually be removed 3-5 days later. Most patients take anywhere from 1-2 weeks off from work to recover. Though some swelling and bruising is normal after your procedure, your results will be dramatic and evident immediately after surgery.
Will I Have Scarring after an Abdominoplasty?
Although all tummy tuck procedures produce a horizontal scar on the lower abdomen, they fade considerably with time and Dr. Bunch makes every effort to make incisions that are well hidden under the majority of bathing suits and undergarments. In short, tummy tuck procedures can give you the flat, taut abdominal contour you have been unable to attain with other methods.
Contact Plastic Surgery of Tuscaloosa
At Plastic Surgery of Tuscaloosa in Tuscaloosa, AL, Dr. Ross Bunch and his professional staff stand out as a practice offering the most advanced cosmetic and reconstructive procedures in the industry. We are well-established in the community and have a reputation for high-quality patient care and excellent customer service. Dr. Bunch is a Board Certified Plastic Surgery who has received extensive training in microsurgery, facial and rhinoplasty surgery, and endoscopic surgery techniques and brings specialized skill and artistry to every procedure he performs. Our mission is to restore form, function, and beauty to all aspects of your body.
If you are interested in learning more about tummy tuck surgery or any other body contouring procedures, please contact our office by calling 205-349-0049 or by clicking here to send us an email contact form. We look forward to speaking with you and to scheduling your consultation with Dr. Bunch!