Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty) in Tucson, AZ

For men and women alike, loose skin and pockets of fat within the abdomen can be frustrating and challenging, especially when attempts to remove them fail. Pregnancy, weight loss, and aging are the primary reasons why someone may not be able to reclaim a tighter and slimmer stomach. Skin tightening of the abdomen is a cosmetic surgery that redefines the stomach area, achieving amazing results for countless patients. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao performs abdominoplasty suited to address each individual's cosmetic goals. This popular procedure at Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery allows Tucson, AZ women and men the chance to gain a redefined physique and more confidence. If you've lost weight or have sagging skin due to age or pregnancy and feel disheartened by your protruding, sagging belly, learn more about how a tummy tuck can help. This surgery effectively removes excess skin and fat, as well as tightens the stomach muscles.

Excess skin and fat around the midsection can be frustrating, especially if you have worked hard to lose weight and maintain your figure. A tummy tuck can remove this tissue and tighten the underlying muscles to create a well-toned middle. Patients who undergo this advanced procedure can expect a marked improvement in their shape and a more youthful look. Now you can feel confident wearing your favorite outfits and showing off your skin! Rao Plastic Surgery is proud to have helped countless women and men regain their bodies and overall appearance.

Men and women who struggle with permanently stretched or distended abdominal skin and muscles are often frustrated by how stubborn these bulges can be, no matter how much they diet or exercise. Surgical intervention with tummy tuck surgery is the only way to truly tone and tighten loose or sagging skin. You may be a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery if you:

• Have a bulging or lax abdomen that hasn't responded to diet or exercise
• Are near or at the ideal weight for your height
• Are physically and mentally healthy
• Understand the limitations of surgery
• Have realistic expectations for the outcome of your tummy tuck

During your initial consultation with Dr. Rao, you and he will discuss your surgical options. To assess your candidacy, he will perform a physical evaluation to ensure tummy tuck surgery is an appropriate solution for you. If you're a candidate, Dr. Rao will go over the surgical technique he will use and help you understand the results you can expect from your surgery.

Today, there are multiple accepted techniques for tummy tuck surgery. Dr. Rao understands that each patient is different so he will work closely with you to develop a customized treatment plan that suits your unique needs. You and he will review your surgical plan thoroughly prior to your surgery so you know exactly what to expect. Dr. Rao performs tummy tuck surgery while you are under general anesthesia. The procedure typically requires a horizontal incision made very low on your abdomen, just above your pubic area. He typically makes this incision as low as possible so that it stays hidden beneath your clothes. In some cases, a modified tummy tuck, which uses a longer or shorter scar, may be more appropriate for your needs. Once he's made the incision, he will surgically tighten your abdominal muscles and excise any loose skin for a smooth, taut contour. Dr. Rao may use liposuction for finer contouring of your abdomen, flanks, and back. Your outcome will be a slimmer waist and a flatter, firmer tummy.

After surgery, it's important to rest at home and take it easy as your body heals. Giving yourself adequate time to recuperate will allow for an attractive, long-lasting result. Most patients need about 2 – 3 weeks for recuperation with up to 2 weeks taken off of work. Those who have physically demanding jobs may require more time off. While you rest at home, it's important to avoid sudden movements, heavy lifting, and any activities that could put a strain on your body. You'll need support from your family or friends during this time, especially with housework, childcare, meal preparation, and errands.

Dr. Rao encourages his Tucson, AZ tummy tuck patients to resume light walking as soon as they feel able. This will work to promote healing and prevent the formation of blood clots. However, it may be several days before you're able to walk fully upright. Limit yourself to short distances and flat surfaces so you don't strain yourself. During your private consultation with Dr. Rao, you will gain a more complete understanding of what to expect during your recovery.

How much does a tummy tuck cost?
During your consultation, Dr. Rao will customize your unique treatment plan to suit your specific needs and goals before discussing costs. He will be better able to estimate your total expense as soon as he knows what type of tummy tuck will be performed, which technique will be used, and more. To make sure you get beautiful results from a skilled plastic surgeon, Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery works to make your tummy tuck more affordable by accepting many payment methods, including low-interest financing.

What type of tummy tuck should I get?
There are three primary types of tummy tucks: full, mini, and extended. During your consultation, Dr. Rao will learn about your needs and goals before examining your stomach. From there, he can better decide which tummy tuck will give you the best results. A full tummy tuck is good if you want to fix issues in the upper and lower abdomen while a mini tummy tuck is good if you only have concerns below your belly button, like a "pooch." An extended tummy tuck is designed to improve the abdomen, as well as the hips and upper thighs.

What will my tummy tuck scars look like?
Incisions for your tummy tuck will depend on which type you are getting. For all tummy tucks, Dr. Rao makes the thinnest incisions possible to limit scarring. He also makes incisions in less visible areas (in the pubic region or belly button) so they can be concealed by a swimsuit or underwear. After your surgery, it's important to follow your scar care instructions so your sutures heal flat and blend into your natural skin.

Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
While you can get pregnant after a tummy tuck, it will surely alter your results. Dr. Rao recommends that you be done with planned pregnancies and childbirth before you consider a tummy tuck. If you do get pregnant after a tummy tuck, a second surgery may be performed to refresh your results.

Can I get a tummy tuck with another surgery?
Several patients get another cosmetic surgery with a tummy tuck to see more dramatic improvements. During your consultation with Dr. Rao, talk to him about your concerns so a personalized treatment plan can be developed that matches your goals. You may combine a tummy tuck with a thigh lift for a lower body lift or several areas for a custom body contouring. If you are trying to improve your body after pregnancy or losing a significant amount of weight, you may be an ideal candidate for a mommy makeover or after weight loss surgery.

Many factors can lead to a stretched-out abdomen that creates hanging and wrinkled skin, such as weight loss, pregnancy, and aging. We understand that it can be frustrating to deal with unwanted skin and pockets of fat that don't respond to diet and exercise. To remedy these issues, tummy tuck surgery is the most assured and lasting solution. If you are bothered by the stretched-out skin in your abdomen, regardless of the amount, tummy tuck surgery performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Arun Rao can help you get the look you desire. Contact Rao Plastic & Hand Surgery in Tucson, AZ to learn more or to schedule your consultation.