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Breast Enlargement Dubai | 10 May 2019

People choose this operation for different reasons:

– To enhance the body contour
– To reconstruct the breast after previous breast surgery
– To improve breast size after having children
– To balance a difference in breast size.
– What are the benefits of breast enlargement surgery?

Perhaps you have always wanted larger breasts. Or you may want to enhance the shape of your breasts following pregnancy or weight loss. Breast enlargement patients often report psychological benefits following the procedure including:

– Increased self esteem (self confidence)
– Enjoy wearing new/fitted clothing
– Feeling more feminine
– Body balance, feeling breast are more in proportion with your body.

Fillers in Dubai | 8 May 2019

BOTOX® is one of the most effective cosmetic treatments for wrinkled facial skin. Most adults begin to experience dynamic wrinkles, which are the wrinkles that form when the facial muscles are contracted. The relaxing or pulling of the skin surface causes the formation smile lines and crow’s feet around the corners of the eyes and mouth. Thinning skin that is no longer retaining moisture and has less collagen is more easily wrinkled, and the appearance of these smile lines can have a negative effect on one’s appearance. No surgery, no chemical peels and no abrasive resurfacing are involved.

Benefits of BOTOX®

BOTOX® doesn’t treat the skin directly. Rather, it inhibits transmission of signals from the nerve endings to the upper-level facial muscles. This means that smoothing of the skin surface is realized without the need for surgery or any sort of skin repositioning. Another benefit of this treatment is that it actually trains the muscles to stay relaxed. The effect of BOTOX® lasts for anywhere up to six months. During this time, the facial muscles that control our appearance when we smile or frown never contract fully. Subsequent treatments typically use less of the fluid because the muscles stay in a relaxed state. BOTOX® doesn’t paralyze the muscles or deaden the nerve endings in the skin. This means that the individual won’t be overcome by a feeling of numbness, and it’s just as easy to frown, smile and laugh as it was before the treatment was administered. The only difference is that these expressions won’t result in wrinkles.

How It Works

I always consult with our client before administering this treatment. I look at the face closely and note the appearance of dynamic wrinkles when certain facial expressions are made. This helps me determine the best injection sites and the best amount of solution to use for the treatment. BOTOX® is injected just beneath the skin and directly into the upper-level muscle tissues. The treatment begins to work almost immediately, so you may see some results just after receiving your injections. However, the real results show themselves in the following days. After a few days, clients notice that the skin around the mouth or eyes no longer wrinkles when smiling or frowning occurs. This effect alone can make the individual look much younger. Injections can be repeated at regular intervals. If you are in generally good health, you will likely make a good candidate for this treatment.

Cosmetic Surgery Dubai | 6 May 2019

Performed as an isolated procedure or integrated within a facelift surgery, a neck lift will correct one of the earliest age-related concerns. A number of different techniques can be combined to suit each individual, allowing for a comprehensive recontouring and rejuvenation of the neck. A defined neckline gives an attractive and appealing appearance and conveys a sense of health, fitness and vitality. Changes to the neck and lower jawline are the most obvious and earliest signs of facial ageing and usually one of the main objectives for patients seeking facial rejuvenation. Some patients may present with hereditary problems of their neck contours and seek an early aesthetic improvement, which may not necessarily be related to ageing. A neck lift, also known as a platysmaplasty, can restore neck contours by modifying the underlying muscles (platysma), redraping skin, interrupting vertical neck bands and removing excess fat. Neck lifting can be performed as an isolated procedure or integrated with a facelift. In both cases it will provide a more youthful and defined appearance to the neck and jawline. Each patient will present with a different set of anatomical concerns, these generally fall into two main categories: (1) a heavy and full neck (often hereditary), or (2) a neck with age-related changes such as skin laxity, skin creases, jowls, vertical muscle bands (platysma bands) and accumulated sub-platysmal fat. In both cases there are several effective options for shaping and rejuvenation of the neck.

Isolated neck lift

The isolated neck lift is suitable for patients who want to treat their neck specifically and have no concerns with the face. This procedure is usually indicated for younger patients and men who generally do well with an isolated neck lift rather than a full facelift. The isolated neck lift is designed to reshape an undesirable neck appearance, often by reducing volume and achieving a sharper and more defined angle between the jaw and neck (cervicomental angle). This is achieved by reducing fat in the deeper layers of the neck and adjusting the platysma muscle position. Removal of superficial fat (liposuction) and/or the placement of a chin implant for further improved definition of the chin and jawline, may also be indicated. Access to and modification of the neck tissues are achieved by an earlobe-based incision (behind the ear) and if required, combined with a discreet incision in the crease below the chin (submental approach).

Integrated neck lift

The integrated neck lift is appropriate for a generalised rejuvenation of the face. A two-layer SMAS face-neck lift procedure will provide rejuvenation of the entire face from the corner of the eyes down to the collarbone, this includes the mid-face, cheeks, jawline and the neck. In the ageing neck, the aim is a restoration of a youthful and aesthetic contour by repositioning sagging tissues, tightening the neck muscle (platysma) and removing accumulated fat and loose skin. Access to and modification of the neck is achieved via the facelift incision located in front and behind the ear.

Techniques

Several components in the neck can be treated to achieve the desired results. The neck tissues consist of superficial fat, deep fat (sub-platysma fat), muscle (platysma), deeper neck muscles and the overlying skin. Because there are wide variations in neck anatomy among individuals, it is necessary to customise the surgery for each patient. During consultation, I will examine the neck, measure facial proportions and discuss individual requirements and goals, in order to formulate an effective treatment plan. Patients can generally determine in what anatomical plane their problems are located, by actively tightening their flat platysma muscle; if their concerns are mobile and located above the muscle (as a double chin), superficial adjustments may be sufficient to address their concerns. If undesirable full contours are located below the muscle, deeper adjustments are required.

Blepharoplasty Dubai | 4 May 2019

Blepharoplasty can be performed for any of the following reasons,

– The ‘tired’ look is the most common reason that patients opt for blepharoplasty surgery. The heaviness of the eyelids and bags under the eyes give the appearance of a constantly exhausted and tired appearance.

– The appearance of the eyelids may be asymmetrical and blepharoplasty may be performed to improve symmetry.

– Saggy upper eyelid skin can obstruct the visual field (you may not be able to see the full extent of your lateral vision) so blepharoplasty is performed to remove this obstruction and improve vision.

– There are several disfiguring conditions such as Thyroid Eye Disease which require blepharoplasty surgery to restore the natural appearance of the eyes. This type of surgery is highly specialised.

How Is Eyelid Blepharoplasty Surgery Performed?

Experience and expertise are required to execute all forms of blepharoplasty surgery. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty is a procedure offering rapid recovery. The blepharoplasty incision is measured and marked. Variable amounts of skin, underlying muscle and fat are removed, or if there is pre-existing upper eyelid hollowness, these tissues can be repositioned to fill the hollows in order to achieve a pleasing and youthful appearance of the eyelid and to improve the visual field. After the desired amount of excision is accomplished, buried dissolvable stitches are used and the skin surface is closed. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is a more involved procedure requiring an incision under the eyelash line, running beyond the corner of the eye. Excess skin, muscle and fat can then be removed or repositioned through this incision. Sometimes, particularly for younger patients, the main aesthetic issue is the underlying fat bulge. In these cases, a transconjunctival ‘scarless’ approach through the inside of the eyelid is preferred.

The skin closure is made using either removable sutures or with glue, meaning that sometimes no suture removal is required. Upper eyelid blepharoplasty surgery is most often performed under local anesthesia either with or without sedation. Lower eyelid blepharoplasty is usually performed under local anaesthesia with sedation, or general anaesthesia if the patient prefers. When having both upper and lower eyelid surgery together.

Fillers in Dubai | 2 May 2019

The medical form of botulinum toxin, often referred to by the product name Botox®, is an effective treatment used to temporarily reduce or eliminate the muscle activity responsible for dynamic lines and wrinkles in the face. Botulinum toxin A is a purified neurotoxin protein produced by the Clostridium Botulinum bacterium. It acts at the junctions between nerves and muscles, to block the release of the chemical messenger (acetylcholine) which normally causes the muscles to contract.

Muscle relaxing injections

Injections of small quantities of botulinum toxin reduces muscle activity, which in turn softens skin lines and contours and gives a more refreshed appearance. Effects are not permanent, but will usually last up to four months. The treatment is effective against moderate to severe dynamic facial lines, such as forehead creases, frown lines, “crows feet” and against vertical neck bands, but usually has no effect on fine superficial skin lines or folds of excess skin.

Suitable candidates

Botulinum toxin may benefit patients requiring a light facial rejuvenation, muscle relaxation or treatment for hyperhidrosis (abnormal perspiration). Patients are generally aged from their late twenties up into their sixties, with good skin elasticity. Treatment is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation.

Tummy Tuck Dubai | 30 April 2019

One variation of abdominoplasty is the mini-tummy tuck. This uses a shorter incision just at or above the pubic region, similar to the incision for a cesarean section. A mini tummy tuck is a modified tummy tuck that uses a C-section-like incision to tighten muscle and remove excess lower abdominal skin. The ideal candidate for a mini tummy tuck has most of his or her issues below the belly button, and it is usually recommended for patients who have always been in pretty good shape but have plateaued with diet and exercise.This procedure is ideal for people who have less excess tummy area skin or fat that is localized in the mid-abdomen area and want to tighten the abdominal area below the belly button.

Mini-Tummy Tuck vs. Full Tummy Tuck

Breast Augmentation Dubai | 27 April 2019

Once your surgery is completed, you must follow all the instructions given to you in order to heal properly and have a good outcome.

The following instructions are your obligation. Use this as a checklist of progress as you heal. Included are normal post-surgical experiences and key health considerations that may be a cause of concern.

TYPICAL POST-OPERATIVE SYMPTOMS

Typical symptoms of breast augmentation and signs to watch for following surgery with silicone breast implants include the following:

Tightness in the chest region and stiffness

Tingling, burning or intermittent shooting pain. These are normal experiences as the skin, muscles and tissue stretch to accommodate your breast implants, and as sensory nerves heal. Pain medication and muscle relaxants will help you cope with any discomfort. If you have drains, you may experience additional localised discomfort. Consistent sharp pain should be reported to our office immediately.

Hypersensitivity of nipples or lack of sensitivity

This is normal and will gradually resolve over time. You may also experience a small amount of fluid or milk seeping through the nipples. If this becomes painful or excessive notify my office immediately.

A feeling of heaviness

It is normal for your chest to feel heavy as you adjust to your implants. This will subside within 2-4 weeks following surgery.

Shiny skin or any itchy feeling

Swelling can cause the breast’s skin to appear shiny. As the healing process advances, you may also find a mild to severe itchy feeling of the breasts. If the skin becomes red and hot to the touch, contact our office immediately.

Asymmetry, the breasts look different, or heal differently

Breasts may look or feel quite different from one another in the days following surgery. This is normal. Although no two breasts in nature or following surgery are perfectly symmetrical, breast massage and time will produce breasts that are similar in shape, position and size.

A sloshing sound or sensation

This is not the result of your implant, but rather of air that is trapped in the implant pocket and fluid that may naturally accumulate. This is perfectly normal and will resolve within 2-4 weeks.

AFTER SURGERY CARE

Your greatest discomfort usually occurs the first 24-48 hours after surgery. During this time, take all medications prescribed by me as directed. It is helpful to take pain medication with bland food to avoid nausea, which may occur if taken on an empty stomach.

Wear garments as directed after surgery. An additional garment may be picked up at the office. Contact the office before taking any Aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin/Advil) or Aspirin-like medications. You may take Tylenol, if you are not taking a pain medicine that already contains Tylenol (acetaminophen), such as Percocet (oxycodone) or Norco (hydrocodone).

Eat easily digestible foods. These are tolerated well the first 24 hours after surgery. If you are not experiencing nausea, you may resume a normal diet. Drink plenty of non-caffeinated beverages and eat fruit and food high in fiber to avoid constipation. Should constipation occur, discontinue pain medication (if tolerated). For relief, you may try magnesium citrate (purchased at your local pharmacy) or prune juice. It may take up to 24 hours to produce a bowel movement. These treatments may be repeated as needed.

AFTER SURGERY ACTIVITY AND HYGIENE INSTRUCTIONS

No lifting over 10-15lb. until cleared by myself. When at home, take frequent rest periods – you may walk for short distances, as walking is important to prevent clots from forming in your legs. As you increase your activity, let comfort be your guide. If it hurts, don’t do it.

Do not resume jogging, aerobics, sexual or vigorous activity until cleared by myself. No heavy household chores (laundry, vacuuming, sweeping/mopping, etc.) until cleared. You may shower 24 hours after surgery. Do not submerge incisions or drains (if present) under water such as in bath, lake, river, pool or hot tub. If present, leave steri-strips (flesh colored bandages) in place. All other dressings may be removed to shower.

Continue to wear the garment, placed on you at the time of surgery, 24/7 except to shower or to launder the garment. Two weeks after surgery, you may discontinue sleeping in the garment and only wear it during the day. While taking pain medicine, have someone assist you with daily activities, particularly personal hygiene.

Limit arm usage to routine daily functions such as brushing your teeth, eating, washing and combing your hair. Avoid vigorous arm motion that requires pushing, pulling and/or lifting heavy objects.

As you heal and soreness subsides, let pain be your guide for your activity level. If it hurts, don’t do it. Check with me before returning to work, particularly if your job requires heavy lifting or vigorous activity.

Avoid sleeping on your abdomen until all soreness has subsided. You may find sleeping propped on 2-3 pillows more comfortable. Avoid sunbathing for 4-6 weeks or until cleared by myself.

Do not wear an underwire bra for 6 weeks. At that point, you may wear a bra of your choice. However you will need to wear a good supportive bra for exercise or vigorous activity. Preferably a sports-type bra that has cups versus one that just compresses the breasts.

Do not smoke for 6 weeks as smoking delays the healing process.

WOUND CARE

You may have several layers of dressings. After 24 hours, you may remove all dressings except the flesh-colored bandages (steri-strips) or clear “tape” (Prineo). Leave either of these dressings in place until your follow up with your surgeon. If either of these dressings comes off, please contact my office for further instructions.

Do not put anything on your incisions except soap and water unless instructed.

Please notify me if:

– You have a fever greater than 101 that lasts more than 24 hours.

– You develop excessive swelling, redness or warmth of incisions.

– You experience severe pain not responding to pain medication.

– You develop thick, odorous drainage or bleeding that does not subside. – You experience shortness of breath.

– One breast appears twice the size or more than the other.

AFTERCARE: BREAST AUGMENTATION SUMMARY

Dressings

On day two from surgery remove all gauze in the bra and throw it away. Shower, and then pat the incisions (steri-strips or skin glue) with a clean cloth. Replace soft bra. You will not need gauze unless you have some slight drainage from the incision sites and want to keep this from getting on your clothes.

Bathing

You may shower two days after surgery (48 hours after surgery). Do not bathe, swim, hot tub, lake swim, or use a whirlpool until incisions are fully closed. I will determine when you are cleared for these activities based on your physical exam. You may feel lightheaded on your first or second shower, therefore a shower assistant is mandatory. Sitting on a chair in the shower is also helpful if you feel more comfortable.

Medications

Complete your course of antibiotics. Arnica may reduce bruising and you should take a complete course. Take prescribed pain medication only as directed and consider Extra Strength Tylenol in place of narcotics. Take medications with food to reduce nausea. Resume pre-operative medications unless otherwise directed by your operating physician or personal physician.

Swelling

Initially, there will be quite a bit of swelling. This swelling over the first couple of days. You will notice that your implants/breasts seem high on your chest. This is often very normal. On day 5 you will start massaging your breasts. This will assist with the implants settling and the capsule to form flexibly. Do not apply heat or ice to any treatment areas. Your ability to sense if your skin is getting too cold or hot is not normal and you may burn yourself.

Massage

Start gentle massage of the breasts at day 5. I or my office staff will demonstrate this technique for you at your post-operative visit. Lymphatic massage has also been shown to help people with fluid retention following surgery. Do not lie on your stomach.

Diet

Start with a bland soft diet and increase this slowly. Slowly resume a balanced healthy diet. This is often difficult following surgery as you are not feeling at your best and are limited in the amount of physical activity you can do. Limit the amount of salt to take in as this will affect your swelling. Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid alcohol.

Clothing

Avoid tight fitting bras that dig into your skin or incision. Wear a soft bra that gives moderate support and opens from the front. This makes it easier to take it on and off.

Smoking

It is well known that nicotine impairs healing and increases your risk of infection. Your scars and final outcome are negatively affected by smoking/nicotine as well.

Driving

Do not drive or operate any heavy machinery for 24 hours following surgery and/or until you are not taking pain pills. You will need someone with you mandatorily for 24 hours following surgery.

Fillers in Dubai | 21 April 2019

How long does it take for dermal fillers to work?

You can expect the results of the procedure to be visible immediately after having the treatment. If there is any swelling then this should take a couple of weeks to settle down.

Is it possible to have an allergic reaction to dermal fillers?

Hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found inside the human body so a reaction to this substance is extremely rare. Collagen stimulating fillers, such as Radiesse, are made from calcium, a substance also found naturally in the body so, again, reactions are very rare. Immediately after the treatment, there may be a slight redness, swelling, tenderness, a faint bubble like appearance and an itching sensation in the treated area. These side-effects are a normal result of the injection and will generally disappears gradually over a period of 7-14 days.

Should I expect to feel any pain after having dermal fillers injected?

Most patients won’t experience any pain after having dermal fillers. But some people may find they have a little bit of soreness and/or mild bruising at the injection sites. If you do experience any pain, bruising or swelling then you can treat this with an ice pack to reduce swelling and redness. I will apply local anaesthetic cream to the area before the injections to help keep any pain during the procedure to a minimum. The filler also has some local anaesthetic which makes the procedure very comfortable.

Can I take painkillers before having dermal filler injections?

It’s recommended to avoid anti-inflammatory painkillers before and after the procedure as these can thin the blood and increase the risk of bruising, swelling and bleeding. Ibuprofen and aspirin are the most well-known anti-inflammatory drugs; however, during your consultation it’s important that you let us know what medication you are taking so we can advise on possible contraindications.

Can I exercise after having dermal filler injections?

I recommend waiting at least a week after dermal fillers before doing any strenuous exercise to avoid the risk of infection. All strenuous exercise should be avoided, but it’s also recommended to avoid yoga as inverted positions, such as headstands, could also increase the risk of bruising and swelling.

How soon after having dermal fillers can I fly?

Although there is some concern that flying after having fillers can cause issues due to changing air pressure in the cabin, there is no evidence that this is the case. There should be no issue with flying after having dermal fillers.

How long is the recovery time after having dermal fillers?

Some people experience mild bruising and swelling after the procedure. If this occurs you can expect the bruising and swelling to wear off in a week or two. After the procedure you can expect to have slight redness around the treated area, which will last a few hours.

How soon after having dermal fillers can I sunbathe?

Sunbathing, sunbeds and intense heat (such as saunas and Turkish baths) should be avoided for 1 week after treatment. If you do go out in the sun, wear sunscreen at all times. You should also avoid exposing your skin to extreme cold for 1 week after treatment.

How soon after having dermal fillers can I touch my face?

Avoid touching the treated area for at least 6 hours after treatment. After that, the area can be gently cleansed and clean light make-up can be applied.

If I suffer from cold sores can I still have dermal fillers?

If you have a history of cold sores, there is a risk, due to the insertion of the needle into the skin, that the virus may be activated. This may cause a first outbreak of a cold sore or another eruption of a previous cold sore. Before your treatment, we advise you to take anti-viral medication. In the case of an outbreak of cold sores, please contact the clinic or seek medical advice.

What are some of the possible side-effects I should be aware of?

Rare but possible side-effects include redness, swelling, bleeding, bruising, pain, itching, infection, abscess formation. You can also experience lumpiness, prolonged firmness, nodule formation, granuloma formation, local necrosis, discolouration, allergic reaction and acne.

Rarely a scab can form at the treatment site, which can result in a scar. Treatment around the eyes and upper face can also result in swelling, bruising, lumpiness, discolouration, infection, abscess formation, scar formation, haemorrhage of the eyes, double vision and loss of vision.

Breast Augmentation Dubai | 17 April 2019

Silicone breast implants

Silicone breast implants are filled with silicone gel. The gel feels a bit more like natural breast tissue. If the implant leaks, the gel may remain within the implant shell, or may escape into the breast implant pocket.

Gummy bear breast implants

Form-stable implants are sometimes referred to as gummy bear breast implants because they maintain their shape even when the implant shell is broken. The consistency of the silicone gel inside the implant is thicker than traditional silicone gel implants. These implants are also firmer than traditional implants. Shaped gummy bear breast implants have more projection at the bottom and are tapered towards the top. If a shaped implant rotates, it may lead to an unusual appearance of the breast that requires a separate procedure to correct. Placement of gummy bear implants requires a slightly longer incision in the skin.

Round breast implants

Round breast implants have a tendency to make breasts appear fuller than form-stable implants. Higher profile options can achieve even more projection.

Because round implants are the same shape all over, there is less concern about them rotating out of place.

Shaped breast implants (tear drops or anatomical shape)

Shaped breast implants are designed to define a more natural shape of the breast and maintain a long lasting result due to their firmness. The gel inside is very cohesive and maintain the shape giving the breast a very gentle slope on the upper pole.

Smooth breast implants

Smooth breast implants are the softest feeling. They can move with the breast implant pocket, which may give more natural movement.

Smooth implants may have some palpable or visible rippling under the skin.

Textured breast implants

Textured breast implants develop scar tissue to stick to the implant, making them less likely to move around inside of the breast and become repositioned.

Texturing offers some advantage in diminishing the risk of a tight scar capsule. Implant manufacturers occasionally introduce new styles and types of breast implants, so there may be additional options available.

The latest technology in texturization is the mirco or nano- texturixation which mime the smooth implants giving the breast a more stable shape and diminishing the risks od capsular contracture and rotation.

Whatever kind of implants you will choose , it is important for you to monitor your breast implants and follow-up with appropriate checkups.

WHERE WILL BE THE INCISION PLACED?

The typical incisions are placed under the breast (inframammary incision) or around the areolar (peri-areolar incision). If you didn’t have children and you did not breast fed yet, the inframammary incision is recommended to avoid any cutting on the gland itself to avoid reduction of the production of milk during a future pregnancy.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR BREAST AUGMENTATION?

In preparing for breast augmentation, you may be asked to:

– Get a blood test

– Get a preliminary ultrasound or mammogram (for patients above 40

years of age)

– Take certain medications or adjust your current medications

– Stop smoking

– Avoid taking aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs as they can

increase bleeding

– Arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with

you for at least the first night following surgery.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING MY BREAST AUGMENTATION RECOVERY?

During your breast augmentation recovery, your breasts will be wrapped in gauze dressings and an elastic bandage or support bra will minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal.

Immediately after surgery, you will be taken into a recovery area for close monitoring. You may be permitted to go home when you are stable for discharge, typically after few hours or so.

WHAT RESULTS SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY?

While a breast augmentation yields larger breasts right away, the final results may take a few weeks as the swelling subsides and the skin stretches. Some patients may need to wear a bandeau to help shape their breasts, especially if they have underlying asymmetry or very small breasts to start with. Incision lines may take several months to fade.

Tummy Tuck Dubai | 13 April 2019

When it comes to a tummy tuck, I frequently explain to patients that the procedure is not a single surgical step, but rather a series of elements that can be combined to create customized results.

Whereas liposuction focuses solely on removing unwanted fat cells from the body – such as those that create a noticeable bulge at the belly – a tummy tuck is intended to create sleeker contours by addressing any number of conditions that keep the abdomen from looking toned.

Excess fat

Of course, stubborn pockets of fat are an obvious culprit when it comes to a larger waistline. While liposuction is frequently performed as a standalone procedure, it can also be used as part of a tummy tuck to help flatten the area. For this element, just about everything is handled as it would be for a solo lipo procedure: Fat is loosened and suctioned out via a cannula. The difference is that while liposuction requires small incisions that are later sutured closed, the incision made for a tummy tuck allows the surgeon access.

Excess skin

While extra fat causes bulges, extra skin creates a sagging pouch that can hide even well-defined abdominal muscles that sit beneath. The amount of excess tissue can range from a little to a lot (sometimes referred to as an “apron”). For a tummy tuck, the surgeon essentially re-drapes the abdominal skin so that it sits flat and tight, then trims away the excess. The incision and subsequent sutures for this element are typically hidden lower on the torso, where they can be covered by a swimsuit bottom or underwear.

Lax muscles

Over time, belly muscles and their covering fascia can become loose. Whereas firm fascia holds everything in place – something like interlaced fingers keeping a water balloon from bulging outward – lax fascia allow the contents behind to bulge outward. Abdominal muscles can separate, giving the entire midsection a flabby look. During a tummy tuck, a surgeon can, if necessary, stitch these muscles and fascia back together to make everything tight and toned. In some cases, as with a mini-tummy tuck, this may be the primary element of the procedure. It is often chosen by moms who have a small bulge that sits below the belly button.

Belly button placement

Depending on the tummy tuck details, the surgeon may need to “relocate” the belly button, which involves creating a hole in the newly taut abdominal skin so the navel appears where it should to remain proportional with the rest of the body. This is called “umbilical translocation.” Following this, the body can be further contoured to encourage an hourglass shape by creating an “internal corset.” I have performed measurements that show narrowing of the waist and improvement of the waistline due to work at this stage.

When all of the steps are completed, the incision will be closed with either a special glue or absorbable sutures, such that the patient can take a shower the next day and there is no need to remove the sutures. Lasers can be used post-operatively to hasten the healing of scars. Also, use of Exparel injections numb the abdomen for three days, which can minimize pain for patients.

Since every patient has a unique body shape and size, as well as personal goals for an ultimate look, each tummy tuck is its own procedure. While there are commonalities between all such surgeries, no two will be exactly alike.

The most common form of tummy tuck involves a horizontal incision near the pubic hairline, so swimwear or undergarments can hide the resulting scar. If there is excess skin above the navel, an incision around the navel may be required. Sometimes, the surgery involves liposuction to remove pockets of excess fat from specific areas of the body. To reduce scar tissue and increase the speed of healing, I may utilize a harmonic scalpel that uses ultrasonic energy to perform parts of the tummy tuck surgery. Diastasis is a term used to describe the separation of the two-paired abdominal muscles that make up the front of the abdomen, which is often caused by multiple pregnancies. Sutures are used to tighten up the abdominal wall, resulting in a flatter stomach. Stronger, tighter abdomen muscles may also help reduce lower back pain.

A tummy tuck is not a shortcut to weight loss. But, it can be a powerfully transforming surgery and complements the impact that weight loss has on the abdominal profile. Many of our patients say they feel liberated after having a tummy tuck. They can wear a bikini again, or not wear a shirt or a top to cover up their loose stomach. They feel good about being outdoors running, swimming and golfing. It does a lot to boost a person’s confidence in their bodies and for many of my patients, it’s an incentive to maintain a healthy appearance for the rest of their lives. For some patients, tighter abdomen muscles may also help reduce lower back pain.

TYPES OF TUMMY TUCKS

Depending on the patient’s aesthetic objective, plastic surgeons will recommend one of the following three types of tummy tucks available:

Full or classic tummy tucks

Classic tummy tucks (which are also referred to as full tummy tucks) are utilized when individuals want to address the sections above and below their belly button, the full length of the abdominal wall. Patients who opt for a full tummy tuck often want to resolve general roundness and excess skin. With this procedure, one horizontal or u-shape incision, and possibly a second incision, are made above the pubic area and the belly button, respectively, to remove excess skin and tighten muscle. Full tummy tucks present the most natural-looking outcome, and can include a much firmer abdomen.

Mini tummy tucks

Mini tummy tucks involve less extensive incisions compared to a full tummy tuck and are intended to improve only the lower belly, below the patient’s belly button. This makes the procedure ideal for people who want to rid their bellies of a “pooch”, tiny bulge or stretch marks in the lower abdominal region only. Plastic surgeons can tighten loose muscles through a single low horizontal incision (typically without an incision around the belly button), and remove excess lower abdominal skin, resulting in a firmer, smoother lower belly.

Extended tummy tuck

The extended tummy tuck is considered when the goals of the procedure are to address the abdomen while simultaneously targeting the flanks and hips. To perform this procedure, the surgeon extends the horizontal incision more laterally as well as often incorporating a longer, vertical incision, which enables the surgeon to remove excess skin from the upper and lower abdominal region as well as the flanks while tightening the abdominal wall. This procedure is often ideal for those patients who have had multiple pregnancies or have lost lots of weight, either through diet and exercise or through weight loss surgery.

DETERMINE WHICH PROCEDURE IS RIGHT FOR YOU

Deciding which procedure is right for you will be contingent upon several factors and is best done in consultation with an experienced Plastic Surgeon. Some of them include your desired results, overall skin quality, body type and location of excess skin on the body. The amount of excess skin will also determine which procedure is most appropriate. Finally, any scarring attained from a previous cosmetic procedure or surgery can determine which kind of tuck the patient qualifies for.

RECOVERY

You’ll want to figure out a time frame for your recovery so you have ample time to heal and can take a break from certain aspects of your life. Make sure you make the proper arrangements and are fully prepared for your recovery period.

Your drains will be left in for a few days after the surgery. You’ll be shown how to take care of and empty the drains. You’ll likely need to take an antibiotic and an anticoagulant while your drains are in place.

You’ll wear an abdominal binder for about six weeks. This helps to avoid fluid buildup and helps to support your abdomen.

While the recovery period is usually shorter for a mini-tummy tuck, you’ll still need to avoid strenuous activity for at least six weeks. This includes any vigorous exercise or heavy lifting.

WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER YOUR SURGERY

I will properly brief you about how to recover at home.

You will be guided:

– how to care for incisions and drain tubes

– what to be aware of in terms of infection or overall health

– what to avoid in terms of physical activity that affects your incision line for six weeks

– when you need to see me again

– how long to wear the abdominal pressure garment

– how much to rest

– what you can eat

You’ll need to have someone who can drive you home from the hospital and help take care of you for at least the first few days after your surgery. You can shower few hours after you remove your drainage tubes. You may want to take a sponge bath until you can shower. You may be advised to use a chair when showering for some time.

You’ll be prescribed an antibiotic and possibly an anticoagulant. You may be given some type of medication to apply to the skin. Take any pain medication as directed. You shouldn’t take any medicine containing aspirin unless directed by your doctor.

You should also avoid alcohol if you’re taking pain medication, and avoid any form of nicotine for at least six weeks. Smoking can hinder the healing process and may cause complications.