Tummy Tuck
For many, the upper legs and thighs can become a more pressing cosmetic concern as they age or undergo massive weight loss. Stubborn fat deposits, excess skin and cellulite are especially prone to accumulating on the thighs and can make you look older or less fit than you actually are. Sagging skin or dimpling on the thighs can make you feel self-conscious about your appearance and may have you steering clear of clothing or swimsuits that showcase your upper legs.
Thigh lift surgery, also referred to as thighplasty, is a surgical cosmetic procedure that works to improve the appearance of the thighs by eliminating excess or loose, hanging skin from the inner or outer thighs. This procedure is often a desirable option for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight or for whom dieting and exercise have failed to tone their upper thighs or reduce lax skin. At the Celestial Institute of Plastic Surgery, a thigh lift procedure performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Bazzi can help patients enjoy upper legs that have a more attractive and proportional contour as well as a firmer look and feel that lasts a lifetime.
WHAT BENEFITS CAN A TUMMY TUCK PROVIDE?
Patients may choose to undergo tummy tuck surgery for a variety of personal and aesthetic reasons and concerns, commonly following significant weight loss or pregnancy. When performed by an experienced and highly-skilled plastic surgeon, a tummy tuck can be a highly rewarding experience that boasts a variety of benefits, such as:
Reducing stubborn fat around the midsection that is unresponsive to diet and exercise
Removing loose, excess skin around the abdominal area
Tightening separated or weakened abdominal muscles
Achieving a firmer, flatter and more defined abdomen
More comfortable and flattering fit to your wardrobe
Enhancing self-confidence and self-esteem
WHAT HAPPENS DURING A TUMMY TUCK SURGERY?
Traditional tummy tuck surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at the Celestial Institute of Plastic Surgery, and may utilize general anesthesia or local anesthesia with intravenous sedation depending on the extent of your concerns and whether any additional operations will be performed. Dr. Bazzi will recommend which option is ideal for you during your initial consultation. First, a horizontal incision is made between your navel and pubic bone. The length of this incision will usually stretch from hip to hip but will depend on the degree of correction required for your needs.
Through this incision, Dr. Bazzi will repair and suture weakened abdominal muscles, and remove any excess fat, tissues and skin from the region. Your remaining skin will be draped over your tightened muscles, and your naval may be relocated to a more natural-looking position if necessary. The incisions will then be closed, and bandages will be applied to the area.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT DURING RECOVERY?
The duration of your recovery after tummy tuck surgery will vary from patient to patient and depends on a variety of factors, such as the extent of your surgery, your age and the rate in which your body heals. You can expect to experience some discomfort the first few days of your recovery and will be required to wear a compression garment to aid in the healing process. Most tummy tuck patients can expect to return to many of their daily activities in just a few days, and return to work within two weeks of recovery.
As you are healing, it is vital to limit your physical activity and strenuous exercises as directed by Dr. Bazzi. Your final results can take a few months to appear as swelling subsides and your skin conforms to your new abdominal contour. After your surgery, Dr. Bazzi will inform you of all postoperative instructions so that you can take proper care of your body for a positive recovery experience.
