Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Abdominoplasty is a procedure that reduces and tightens the abdomen. But abdominoplasty is a term that applies to a number of abdominal contouring surgeries that vary in extent according to the needs of the patient. Just as no two patients are alike, no two tummy tuck procedures are alike. Some may only require liposculpting without any skin tightening. Others may require liposculpting, skin tightening, and muscle or even hernia repair. It is important to understand that there is no diet or exercise that can get rid of loose, excess skin. Dr. Platis will tailor your surgery to your specific needs after thoroughly discussing your options.
Dr. Platis is recognized as an expert in abdominal contouring, or tummy tuck, surgery in Chicago and Northwest Indiana. He believes that in order to properly shape the abdomen it is best to shape the entire waistline. This not only provides the best aesthetic results, but can also improve posture and alleviate lower back pain. You can see this in the before and after photos.
Dr. Platis is a pioneer in the technique of abdominoplasty without drains. He has been asked to present his work at plastic surgery meetings and has received special recognition for his results in Chicago and Northwest Indiana.
Ideal Candidates for Abdominoplasty
Most patients requiring tummy tuck have either lost a significant amount of weight (men or women) or have had changes occur as a result of pregnancies. Dr. Platis recommends that before considering abdominal contouring the patient should be stable at his or her weight and, in the case of female patients, should be finished having babies. The results from the procedure can be life changing, but significant weight gain or subsequent pregnancy can undo a good portion of the results.
How It’s Done
All tummy tuck related procedures are performed under general anesthesia in order to maximize safety and minimize discomfort. Dr. Platis will usually start the procedure with liposuction performed around the entire waistline. He then makes a lower abdominal incision, just above the pubic area, and lifts the skin and remaining fat off of the muscles of the abdomen. If the muscles have been separated from previous pregnancies Dr. Platis will tighten them so that they give better support to your midsection, like an internal girdle. The skin is then tightened, and redundant skin and fat are removed. Dr. Platis does not use drains for this procedure as none are necessary with his technique. The result is improved shape, posture and overall appearance of the entire torso with an incision scar low enough to be covered by a bikini bottom.
Recovery from Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty surgery patients are thrilled to have a flat, smooth tummy. The length of recovery depends on the extent of the surgery. Mini tummy tuck patients may return to normal activity in a few days. More complete abdominoplasty surgeries will take a bit longer. The patient returns home on the day of the surgery unless other procedures were performed at the same time as the tummy tuck. There can be significant soreness for the first 2-3 days, mainly from the liposuction. This is well controlled with pain medicines. Although you will be up and around immediately you will be moving slowly, and Dr Platis often asks his abdominoplasty patients to remain bent at the hips for a few days after surgery to minimize tension on the skin which has been pulled tight. By the end of the first week, patients are walking normally and usually are taking ibuprofen rather than narcotics. By ten to fourteen days they are feeling back to normal in most cases. It is important to note, however, that although the discomfort of this operation can resolve quickly, fatigue can be an issue for a while. Dr. Platis tells his patients to expect to feel tired for the first week or two. Most patients say that even after their energy returns, it takes a while longer before they can be active all day without feeling tired in the afternoon. A compressive garment is worn for at least the first two weeks, and then intermittently for a few weeks more, depending on your circumstances.
