The abdomen is one of the most difficult areas of the body to firm and tone. Not only that, but pregnancy, extreme weight loss or abdominal surgery can all result in sagging skin that may not conform to your new shape no matter how thin you become. A tummy tuck performed by Dr. Steven Carp at his Green or Beachwood, OH clinics could be the solution. Patients in Akron, Cleveland or Canton should contact Carp Cosmetic Surgery Center to find out more.
Abdominoplasty, better known as a “tummy tuck,” is a surgical procedure for tightening the abdominal muscles and getting rid of extra fat and skin from the lower and middle parts of the abdomen. This procedure is performed on a routine basis by Dr. Carp.
If your abdomen is protruding, a tummy tuck can improve your appearance significantly. However, it’s important for patients in the Canton and Akron areas to understand that the procedure will leave behind a scar, which may run from hip to hip. It should remain concealed when wearing underwear or a bikini bottom, but it will never completely disappear.
If you’re thinking of undergoing abdominoplasty, this page will help you learn about the procedure. Afterward, the next step is contacting Dr. Carp, who will gladly answer any questions you may have and give you a professional assessment of the procedures best suited to your goals.
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The Best Candidates for Abdominoplasty
Men and women who are in reasonably good physical shape but unhappy with the extra fat in their abdominal area, loose abdominal wall muscles, or sagging abdominal skin that resists diet and exercise are good tummy tuck candidates. According to Dr. Steven Carp, who serves residents of the Akron and Canton areas, this procedure is especially suited for women who, due to multiple pregnancies, have had their abdominal skin and muscles stretched to the point where they can no longer return to their normal condition. Poor skin elasticity in older individuals, which can also occur from being overweight, can also be improved.
Abdominoplasty does not replace a healthy lifestyle. Patients who intend to lose significant body fat should wait until their weight has stabilized to have this surgery. Furthermore, women who intend to become pregnant in the future should also wait, as the abdominal muscles that are tightened may re-separate during pregnancy. If you have scars from previous abdominal procedures such as a cesarean section, Dr. Carp might recommend avoiding a tummy tuck or warn that any scars will be unusually visible.
A tummy tuck can work wonders for your looks and self-confidence, but it won’t give you a perfect body. Before opting for this procedure, it’s important to make sure your expectations are realistic.
Planning Your Tummy Tuck
During your first consultation, Dr. Carp will assess your health, determine the severity of your abdominal fat deposits, and carefully evaluate your skin tone. Make sure you let him know if you smoke or take any medications, vitamins, herbs or other drugs. Dr. Carp will also review your medical history, which is an essential part of ensuring your safety and candidacy.
Dr. Carp customizes every tummy tuck to fit the unique needs of each of his Akron plastic surgery patients. Using the latest techniques, Dr. Carp performs most tummy tucks without drains. This allows for a more comfortable recovery without the inconvenience of surgical drains. For instance, if you struggle with loose tissue and extra fat below your navel, a less complicated procedure known as partial abdominoplasty, or a “mini tummy tuck,” may be performed. For patients seeking larger-scale contouring, partial or complete abdominoplasty alongside liposuction, or liposuction by itself, may provide optimal results.
During your consultation, Dr. Carp will go over the type of anesthesia to be used, what kind of facility the procedure will be done in. and how much it will cost. Because abdominoplasty is an elective cosmetic procedure, health insurance will not cover it in the majority of cases. However, you should refer to your policy to make sure.
Preparing for Your Tummy Tuck
Prior to your surgery, Dr. Carp will give you instructions on how to get ready for your procedure, including restrictions on smoking, eating, and drinking. Smokers must quit at least four weeks beforehand and must continue to be abstinent for a minimum of four weeks afterward. This helps to reduce the risk of complications and supports proper recovery. You’ll also be given instructions on what medications to avoid and which ones are acceptable.
Avoid vigorous dieting or any other activities prior to surgery that might reduce your body’s healing capacity. If you develop an infection or cold of any sort, Dr. Carp will likely delay your surgery until you’re healthy again. You won’t be able to drive home by yourself afterward, so you’ll need a friend or loved one to transport you home and look after you for the first day following your surgery.
After Your Tummy Tuck
If your surgery is extensive, an overnight stay may be necessary; however, many patients can go home the same day. For a few days after your tummy tuck procedure in the Akron and Canton area, you’ll likely experience some abdominal swelling and discomfort, but this can be alleviated with an over-the-counter medication. While you might not be able to stand up straight initially, it’s recommended to begin walking around as soon as possible to reduce your blood clot risk. You may also receive a mild blood thinner after your procedure. You must wear a supportive garment for two weeks minimum following the procedure. This helps to optimize the results.
Types of Anesthesia
General anesthesia is typically used, so you’ll be asleep for the procedure’s duration. In some instances, a local anesthetic may be used alongside a sedative. You’ll remain awake in this case, but you’ll feel relaxed, and your abdomen will be insensitive to pain. However, tugging sensations or occasional discomfort may occur.
A complete tummy tuck performed by Dr. Carp normally takes two to three hours, depending on how much work needs to be done. A partial abdominoplasty can take one to two hours. The tummy tuck is a drainless procedure.
In most cases, an incision is created from one hip to the other just above the pubic area. Another incision is created to free the belly button from the nearby tissue. When Dr. Carp does a mini tummy tuck, this incision is shorter, and the navel is not usually relocated.
Afterward, the skin of the abdominal wall is lifted to provide access to the vertical abdominal muscles. These are then tightened by bringing them close together and suturing them into the desired position. This creates a firm abdominal wall and a smaller waistline.
The abdominal skin is then stretched down, and any excess skin is removed. A new incision is made for your belly button, which will then be sutured into place. Dr. Carp will finish by closing the incisions and dressing the sites.
When he does a partial abdominoplasty, Dr. Carp only separates the skin between the navel and incision line. The navel is not moved, the scar is smaller, and recovery is generally faster.
Getting Back to Normal
While you’re recovering from your procedure, it’s important to remember that it will likely take several weeks before you start feeling normal again. If you’re already in excellent shape, your recovery will be much faster. Some patients can return to work in just one week, whereas other patients may need three to four weeks before they can return to their jobs.
Exercise that doesn’t place excessive strain on your incisions will accelerate healing. Even if you don’t routinely exercise, beginning a light regimen prior to your surgery can help minimize post-surgical swelling, reduce blood clot risk, and tone the muscles. Strenuous activity should be postponed until it can be done without discomfort.
Your scars will likely look worse for the first three to six months of healing. However, they will start to flatten and become lighter within nine to 12 months. Although they will never completely go away, they will not be noticeable under most garments, including swimsuits.
Your New Look
Our plastic surgery patients in the Canton and Akron areas opt for a tummy tuck procedure primarily because it gives fantastic results to patients with excessive abdominal skin or weak, loose abdominal muscles. The results last a long time as long as you adhere to a healthy, nutritious diet plan and exercise regularly.
REAL PATIENT REVIEW
“I had a tummy tuck with muscle repair on 12/28. I am now 5 days post op and I feel great! From the moment I met Dr. Carp and his staff I felt comfortable with my decision to lose the extra skin that I collected over the years having 6 babies. The office is clean and relaxing. Everyone on Dr. Carp’s staff has been so friendly and professional. I was also very impressed and satisfied with Mercy surgery center where my surgery took place. Even shorty after surgery I can tell that Dr. Carp is a perfectionist. I am already in love with my new body, and I know it’s only going to get better! All of my questions were answered hosestly and in a way that I understood by both Dr. Carp and his staff before making this life changing decision. I couldn’t be more happier with the choice I made to use Carp Cosmetic. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Dr. Carp and staff!!” – BONNIE C.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a tummy tuck remove fat?
Is it safe to have a baby after a tummy tuck?
Yes, it is completely safe to get pregnant and have a baby following your tummy tuck. Just keep in mind that any excess weight gain or pregnancy will disrupt the results of your tummy tuck and re-stretch the skin around your midsection. We highly recommend waiting until you are done having children before considering a tummy tuck.
Do you get a scar from a tummy tuck?
Yes, patients who undergo a tummy tuck are left with a scar from hip to hip just above the pubic area. This scar can be lightened with the help of skin rejuvenation therapies and is often discrete enough to hide underneath the panty and bikini line.
When can I exercise after a tummy tuck?
We recommend waiting four to five weeks following your tummy tuck to return to your regular exercise routine. Dr. Carp advises slowly working your way back into your exercises after your tummy tuck, starting with low impact aerobics and very light weight lifting.
How much do you have to weigh to get a tummy tuck?
There is no weight restriction to qualify for a tummy tuck. Dr. Carp simply asks that you remain a stable weight for several months prior to your tummy tuck procedure to ensure you will be able to easily maintain your results. Any excessive weight gain or pregnancy will disrupt the results of your tummy tuck by re-stretching the skin in the abdominal area.
If you live in or around Akron or Canton, don’t despair over a flabby tummy; instead, contact Dr. Steven Carp to find out if a tummy tuck performed at his Green or Beachwood, OH clinics is right for you.