Which Tummy Tuck Procedure Is Right For Me?

Do you have loose skin and extra fat in the abdominal area? Although regular diet and exercise are key components in slimming down the midsection, sometimes it’s simply not enough. Individuals who have experienced weight loss or pregnancy may have distended stomach muscles that won’t return to their original shape. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rolando Morales of Morales Plastic Surgery offers the ideal solution in the form of tummy tuck surgery. He performs several types of tummy tuck procedures for improved abdominal tone and a tighter appearance. Learn about the options available in the Greater Houston area by reaching out to our facility and scheduling your consultation with Dr. Morales today.

A full tummy tuck

Also called a traditional abdominoplasty, a full tummy tuck is suitable for men and women with a moderate amount of excess skin or fat in their midsection. This surgery is usually performed on women post-pregnancy for a flatter, smoother abdomen and a reduced appearance of stretch marks. During surgery, Dr. Morales makes an incision from hipbone to hipbone, which grants better access to the internal structures. He then tightens the abdominal muscles and repositions the belly button for a natural-looking placement. Liposuction may also be incorporated for more dramatic results. After getting a full tummy tuck, patients will find that form-fitting clothing has a more flattering fit.

A mini tummy tuck

Patients bothered by a smaller belly "pooch" or a minimal amount of loose skin below the belly button may be candidates for a mini tummy tuck. This technique requires a small incision just above the pubic area, through which Dr. Morales tightens the muscles to restore the abdominal wall. During surgery, the belly button is not usually affected, although we may incorporate liposuction for improved results and a flatter appearance. The benefits of a mini tuck include a less involved procedure and faster recovery times. Patients who get a mini tummy tuck can get back to their daily routine more quickly than those who receive a full or extended abdominoplasty.

An extended tummy tuck

This plastic surgery procedure is reserved for individuals who require significant body contouring, and it involves a longer incision that extends beyond the hips and around the navel. The goal of an extended tummy tuck is to tighten the abdominal wall and remove hanging skin from the upper and lower abdomen as well as the flanks. The belly button is also repositioned during an extended tummy tuck. Just like with the other types of tummy tuck surgery, liposuction may be used to improve the abdominal shape and achieve better contours. Patients who are concerned about scarring should know that Dr. Morales does his best to place the incisions in areas that are easily hidden by a bathing suit or undergarments.

Which type should I choose?

During your consultation at Morales Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX, we will examine the abdomen and make recommendations based on your anatomy and the amount of excess skin and fat involved. Skin quality may also impact our overall decision. Dr. Morales will take time to listen to your aesthetic concerns and explain each type of tummy tuck surgery, along with what is involved with each procedure. Best of all, abdominoplasty procedures are personalized based on the patient’s needs. They can also be combined with surgeries such as breast augmentation or lift as part of a mommy makeover.

Abdominoplasty is performed while the patient is under general anesthesia and typically takes about two hours to complete as an outpatient procedure. After tummy tuck surgery, individuals are given a medical compression garment to ensure their comfort and safety during recovery. Based on the type of tummy tuck chosen, patients can expect to return to their normal activities in a few weeks. However, Dr. Morales will not clear you for strenuous activities until 4 – 6 weeks after surgery. For questions or concerns about the process, we welcome you to contact Morales Plastic Surgery for more information.

Increase your confidence with tummy tuck surgery

The staff at Morales Plastic Surgery understands that it can be difficult to achieve a tight, flat abdomen on your own. Dr. Rolando Morales takes pride in offering outstanding patient care and life-changing results through several types of tummy tuck procedures. Abdominoplasty can help boost your confidence and self-esteem. We encourage you to call one of our two locations in Houston, TX to schedule your consultation. With years of plastic surgery experience, Dr. Morales is ready to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals.