Tummy Tuck after >100 pound weight loss
Sometimes simply dieting and exercising are not enough to take care of waistline problems. In such cases, a patient may wish to consider a tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty). A tummy tuck is the surgical removal of excess skin or fatty deposits from the abdomen, which may include the repositioning of abdomen muscles into a tighter formation. This bodily enhancement procedure is designed for those who wish to have a flatter and tighter stomach. It is also helpful in remedying the separation of abdomen muscles known as diastasis, which can occur following pregnancy or weight gain.
Reasons for considering an Abdominoplasty
- Inability of dieting and exercise to improve the abdomen area.
- Excessive accumulation of skin following weight loss.
- Loss of skin elasticity or diastases (loose abdomen muscles) due to pregnancy or weight gain.
- The removal of unsightly skin and fat deposits as well as the proper alignment of the abdomen muscles to produce a more flattering look.
Tummy Tuck with Liposuction
General Procedure
Abdominoplasty surgery can last from one to five hours, depending on the desired look and the patient’s unique anatomy. To begin the procedure, an incision is made just above the pubic bone area. This incision goes horizontally across the lower abdomen and sometimes around to the back. The skin is then stretched away from the muscle tissue, and excess skin is removed. The abdomen muscles can be tightened to provide a firmly contoured stomach and well-defined waistline. Finally, the incision is closed; and the skin is stitched back into place. Sometimes the procedure requires an additional incision around the navel in order to provide the best results.
Recovery ProcessPost-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. As the body recuperates, the patient can expect some swelling, pain, and discomfort. . Medication can be prescribed to relieve any pain caused by the procedure. Drains are necessary for about a week to ensure excellent healing. A compression garment is usually required for about three weeks after surgery. Normal activities can generally be resumed within two weeks. It may take up to a year for the body to completely adapt to the new abdominal configuration. With proper diet and exercise the striking results of the surgery will be long lasting.
Post Bariatric Weight loss Patient
how much does the abdominoplasty surgery cost?
An abdominoplasty can be done a number of different ways depending on the individual patients needs and desired outcome. The best way to get a quote for surgery is to make an appointment to come in and meet with Dr. Lombardo so she can evaluate what would be right for you. Call (760) 610-8990 to make your complimentary appointment today! See you soon…..
is this a procedure that is covered by ins?
if it is HMO ins do you have to be referred?
i am looking to have a panniculectomy done.
A panniculectomy can sometimes be covered by insurance if there are medical symptoms associated with the excess tissue. A full abdominoplasty (including tightening the muscles and “moving” the belly button) is often not covered by insurance.
An HMO referral is sometimes necessary – depending on the insurance you have. If you call the office 760-610-8990 we can answer more specifically and, of course, set you up for a consultation to meet with Dr. Lombardo to review if you are a good candidate for insurance approval.
We look forward to speaking with you soon…
I found out after having my first child via c-section that I have keloids. I want to have abdominoplasty and hope to have another child, but I am unsure of the priority of how these should be done, and if an abdominoplasty is even suggested with the keloids.
If you are planning to have another pregnancy it is probably best to wait on the abdominoplasty because the tissue will likely stretch out again. As for keloids, having a history of keloids doesn’t rule out a tummy-tuck but special techniques will be required. The best thing to do is make an appointment to come in and meet with Dr. Lombardo. She will get a thorough history from you on your previous scarring and discuss the options. Please call us at (760)610-8990 to make a complimentary consultation and we will be better able to answer your questions.
Thanks!