A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure that can give you a toned abdomen and greater confidence in your appearance. Dr. Rau specializes in tummy tucks for men and women.
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat, skin, and tissue from the abdomen to help patients achieve a toned, flatter stomach. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia and takes about 3 hours.
Dr. Rau will start by making an incision along the bikini line where your scar can be easily concealed by underwear and bathing suits. Loose skin and stubborn fat are removed, and the connective tissues (fascia) and abdominal muscles are tightened with sutures. By tightening these connective tissues, the abdominal wall is strengthened, and this will allow you to have a long-lasting slimmed appearance. The remaining skin and your belly button are repositioned for a smoother, contoured appearance. This procedure can also be combined with liposuction if you have a significant amount of fatty tissue.
This is considered a “complete” tummy tuck, but you can also choose to have a mini abdominoplasty which is a less major surgery. Patients with a minimal amount of excess skin can benefit from this procedure.
Although tummy tucks are commonly seen as a women’s procedure, they are also a great choice for men who have undergone significant weight loss. Women should wait to receive their tummy tucks until after they are done having children since future pregnancies will stretch the stomach and reverse the effects of your procedure. All patients should be non-smokers in relatively good health with a stable weight.
Some people wonder whether a tummy tuck will correct stretch marks. If the stretch marks are apparent on areas of skin removed during your surgery, they may be improved by the tummy tuck procedure.
After your tummy tuck surgery is completed, the incision will be covered with a surgical dressing and should remain dry while the incisions are healing. If you had liposuction with your tummy tuck, drainage tubes will also be placed. Bruising, swelling, and soreness are common, but Dr. Rau will prescribe you pain medication to relieve your discomfort. You will have to wear a compression garment around your abdomen for six weeks to prevent fluid accumulation and limit swelling.
During this six-week period, you should avoid any activities that might strain the incision site, including bending from the waist. Make sure to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions to prevent poor wound healing. After 2-3 months, you will see the permanent results of your tummy tuck. As long you maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine, your stomach will stay toned and flat.
At Amavi Aesthetics, we understand that peace of mind is essential throughout your cosmetic journey. As part of our commitment to comprehensive care, we proudly provide Cosmetassure coverage to all our patients to safeguard them from financial burdens in the event of complications. With Cosmetassure, you can embark on your aesthetic transformation with confidence, knowing that we have your back every step of the way.
Dr. Rau’s dedication to patient care goes beyond the operating room— which is why she is proud to offer Cosmetassure. This additional layer of protection sets Amavi Aesthetics apart from other practices, showing our commitment to going the extra mile for every patient. With Cosmetassure, you can rest assured that we are fully invested in your health and satisfaction, providing you with the support you deserve throughout your journey.
Dr. Aline Rau and the team at Amavi Aesthetics are dedicated to providing comprehensive care that extends beyond the operating room. As part of her commitment to ensuring the utmost support for each patient, she offers a complimentary gift bag filled with all necessary post-operative supplies from bandages to soothing creams.