Abdominoplasty in Bluffton, South Carolina
Sculpt Your Silhouette with a Natural-Looking Tummy Tuck
What Is An Abdominoplasty?
Tummy tucks, also known as abdominoplasty, are cosmetic surgical procedures that improve the abdomen's appearance by reducing sagging abdominal skin and excess fat. The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the lower and middle abdomen in order to tighten the abdominal wall muscles and fascia.
Overall, it achieves a flatter, firmer, and more contoured midsection by improving the overall appearance of the abdomen. After pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging, individuals often seek this type of surgery to address loose or sagging tissues.
Types of Abdominoplasty
Mini-Abdominoplasty
A mini-abdominoplasty, also called a mini tummy tuck, is a less invasive version of a full abdominoplasty. This procedure targets the lower abdomen, making it a great option for people with excess skin and fat below the navel.
Full Abdominoplasty
Full abdominoplasty, or total tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the entire abdominal area. Individuals with significant excess skin, fat, and muscle laxity above and below the navel may benefit from this procedure.
Extended Abdominoplasty
An extended abdominoplasty, also known as an extended tummy tuck, is a more extensive procedure than a traditional abdominoplasty. The procedure targets excess skin and fat not only on the abdomen, but also on the flanks (love handles) and lower back. Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and have loose skin around the midsection and lower back may benefit from this procedure.
Circumferential
The circumferential abdominoplasty procedure, also known as a body lift or belt lipectomy, involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, flanks, back, and buttocks. Those who have undergone massive weight loss and have loose, sagging skin around their torso can benefit from this procedure.
What Are The Benefits Of An Abdominoplasty?
Remove Excess Skin From The Abdomen
Enhances Self-Esteem & Confidence
Better Core Strength
Improved Abdominal Tone & Appearance
Long-Lasting Results
A Customized Approach
Abdominoplasty Procedure
General anesthesia will be administered during your treatment to prevent discomfort. If needed, Dr. Little will begin with Liposuction. Liposculpting will contour the waist, sculpt the entire torso, and remove deeper fat layers. Full procedures require an incision around the belly button to elevate skin and fat to the upper abdomen. The abdominal muscles are then repaired in the midline to restore a flat abdominal wall and accentuate curvature above the hips. The elevated skin and fat is then redraped and the excess is removed. A new incision is then placed in the skin and the belly button is brought out and sutured to the surface.
Dr. Little will also use complex sutures (progressive tension sutures) to secure the skin to the underlying muscle and avoid post-surgical drains. This technique reduces fluid accumulation, and drains are often not needed. Absorbable sutures are also commonly used. A long-lasting anesthetic (Exparel) is then injected into the muscles prior to closure. This dramatically reduces discomfort and enhances recovery following the procedure. This procedure will usually be anywhere from 3-4 hours. Following your tummy tuck procedure, you will be taken to recovery to rest until the anesthesia wears off.
We Utilize The Leading Technology To Help Ensure We Deliver The Best Results Possible!
Dr. Little will capture a 3D scan of your treatment area and use cutting-edge software to bring your dream results to life—so you can see the transformation before it even begins!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Depending on the extent of your tummy tuck procedure, you may require some downtime to recover. It will also depend on how quickly you heal. Redness, swelling, and bruising may appear around the treatment area in the first few days after your procedure. Medications can be prescribed if these symptoms cause you discomfort. The use of Exparel dramatically reduces pain during healing. Gentle compression garments are recommended for the first several weeks. Discomfort and tightness usually resolve within 2 weeks. After three weeks of rest, most patients are able to return to work. It usually takes six to eight weeks to fully recover, so avoid vigorous activity until then.
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You may benefit from a Tummy Tuck if the following apply to you:
- Non-nicotine users.
- Patients without major nervous system, skin, heart, lung, bleeding problems.
- Patients in otherwise good health.
- Patients without major previous abdominal surgery or anatomical abnormalities, such as hernias, which can significantly increase risks.
- Have realistic expectations about how the surgery will turn out before proceeding.
- Your goal is to improve your appearance and midsection.
- Patients with stable weight for at least 6 months.
- Patients who are unlikely to have significant future weight fluctuations greater than 10lbs.
- Diet and exercise are not enough to reduce the excess fat and loose skin in your abdomen.
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A tummy tuck is a highly customized procedure, so the price will be determined by the details of your personalized procedure plan. At your consultation, Dr. Little will provide you with a detailed quote.
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It is common for abdominoplasty scars to be visible. Incisions are typically made on the hips and below the waistline, where clothing can cover them.
Is An Abdominoplasty Right For You?
Schedule A Consultation Today!
Why Choose Dr. Little For Your Abdominoplasty?
Dr. Jarrod Little, a distinguished board-certified plastic surgeon, brings over two decades of expertise in the field. With a passion for aesthetics and precision, Dr. Little is eagerly anticipating the grand opening of his own practice in the vibrant community of Bluffton, South Carolina. Patients can trust in Dr. Little's skillful hands and dedication to delivering top-tier cosmetic care as he embarks on this new chapter in his career.
