Aesthetic Plastic

Tummy Tuck

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. Dr. Haroon Aziz of Columbus Ohio has found this procedure can dramatically improve the appearance of a protruding abdomen. 

The best candidates for a tummy tuck?

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit and/or loose abdominal skin which does not readily respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity or weighty loss, can also be improved.

If you feel that you desire to have a flatter abdomen and desire to look more attractive in your slacks and form-fitting clothes then a Tummy Tuck may be the procedure for you.

The Surgery

Complete tummy tuck surgery usually takes several hours, depending on the extent of work required. Partial tummy tucks may take an hour or two.

Recovery

For the first few days, your abdomen will probably be swollen and you're likely to feel some pain and discomfort, which can be controlled by medication. Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may be released within a few hours or you may have to remain hospitalized for two to three days.

Dr. Aziz will give you instructions for showering and changing your dressing. And though you may not be able to stand straight at first, you should start walking as soon as possible.

Stitches will dissolve in five to seven days.. A support garment may replace the dressing on your incision.

Getting back to normal

It may take you several weeks to feel like your old self again. If your start out in top physical condition, with strong abdominal muscles, recovery from a tummy tuck will be much faster. Some people return to work after two weeks, while others take three or four weeks to rest and recuperate.

Exercise will help your heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably.

Your new look

Tummy tucks, whether partial or complete, produce excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin. And in most cases, the results are long lasting, if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly.

If you feel this procedure could enhance your look, please call our office at (614) 840-9500 to schedule your personalized consultation. Let Dr. Aziz help you look your best for many years to come.

Visit our plastic / cosmetic surgery office, located in Columbus, Ohio (OH).