When I meet with patients interested in tummy tuck surgery from Austin or San Antonio, my goal is to help patients feel fully confident, educated, and supported as we move forward with the surgical process. One of the main ways I do this is by answering any and all questions they may have about everything from preparation to long-term results.
If you’re considering a tummy tuck, asking these 7 questions during your consultation will help you get exactly what you’re looking for out of your surgical experience.
Do I need a tummy tuck or just liposuction?
Liposuction on its own is a strong option for someone with tight skin on the abdomen, but a tummy tuck is needed to address loose skin and separation of muscles (diastasis recti) associated with pregnancy, age, or weight loss.
Should I get a mini tummy tuck or a full tummy tuck?
A full tummy tuck addresses the majority of tummy issues such as muscle separation, bellybutton shape, and excess skin on the upper and lower tummy. A mini tummy tuck only addresses issues below the bellybutton. Watch these animated videos from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons to see how the two procedures differ.
My Skin Pinch™ mini tummy tuck approach is the perfect procedure for women who have excess skin just above the C-section scar. This is usually a small overhang of skin in the lower tummy that can be seen through tight-fitting clothing. The ideal patient typically has great core muscles without separation, good skin quality, and no stretch marks.
How bad is the pain after a tummy tuck?
The most common description we get from our patients is a sensation that the tummy is tight. I use EXPAREL®, which is a long-acting numbing medication (liposomal bupivacaine) that decreases discomfort in the treated area during the early healing process. This allows my patients to be more active, speeding up the recovery process.
What is the fastest way to recover from a tummy tuck?
We like to plan on a 10- to 14-day recovery timeline. However, this is an active recovery. I expect my patients to be up and about 8 to 10 times each day, taking 5 to 10 min walks around the house. Being active helps speed up the recovery process and really elevates my patients’ moods.
Do I need a diastasis recti repair?
During your consultation, I’ll be able to assess whether you have separated muscles and need a repair. To learn more about what this repair involves, how it can help, and when it’s necessary, please read this previous blog post.
Where and how big is a tummy tuck scar?
Your scars will be low across the bikini line. Skin laxity and other factors may contribute to scar location in some cases. I’ll point out your specific scar location during your consultation to help you understand how easily hidden it will likely be and make sure you have no doubts moving forward.
Are tummy tuck results permanent?
If you take good care of yourself, eat healthily, commit to a regular exercise program that includes the core, and maintain a stable weight, it is unlikely that you will need another tummy tuck procedure in the future.
Close communication is my priority during the consultation process. I want my patients to know they are in highly qualified hands and will be fully supported throughout every step of this exciting journey. To see actual patients’ tummy tuck before-and-after pictures take a look at our photo gallery.
If you’re in the greater San Antonio or Austin area and considering cosmetic surgery, I’m happy to discuss your options with you at my Austin practice. Please contact us online or call (512) 288-8200 to request a consultation.
