Monday, September 1, 2008

Before we discuss specific tummy tuck techniques

In order to understand the pros and cons of each different tummy tuck technique, we have to understand what a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty procedure is designed to accomplish.

Although the needs of each individual may be different, the final optimal outcome of all abdominal contouring procedures is very similar. These include:

1) Removal of excess skin and fat
2) Tightening of the abdominal wall
3) Rejuvenating the appearance of the belly button or umbilicus
4) Improving the overall contour and silhouette of mid-drift
5) And finally, doing all this with scars that are thin and well concealed by swimwear, undergarments, and summer wear.

As one of the leaders in body contouring has told me, "the goal is to thin, tighten, and flatten".

The different tummy tuck techniques that exist are selected based with the above goals in mind and tailored to the individual needs of the patient. Since the unique characteristics of a 30 yo females body which for example has had two kids defers from that of a patient who has experienced significant weight loss, the tummy technique that will best be able to accomplish the above goals will naturally be dramatically different as well.

We will start later this week with mini abdominoplasty and progressively advance to more extensive tummy tuck techniques.

All the best,

Dr. Remus Repta