A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from your abdomen. It can also include reattaching separated abdomen muscles, making them tighter and stronger. In addition, Dr. Lisa Bootstaylor's unique style includes narrowing your waist and creating an hourglass shape, making a protruding tummy less noticeable.
People seek out tummy tucks for many different reasons, but some of the most common are to:
These situations often occur after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or due to aging.
During a tummy tuck, Dr. Bootstaylor makes an incision from one hip to the other. In most cases, this incision is right above your pubic area and hidden from view when wearing a bikini. She makes another incision around your umbilicus (belly button).
Dr. Bootstaylor separates your skin and abdominal wall. If necessary, she’ll reconnect the left and right abdominal muscles, which strengthens the abdominal wall and creates a smoother look. When there’s excess fat, she may combine the tummy tuck with liposuction, removing fat from your body.
She then stretches the skin over your abdomen, eliminating excess skin, wrinkles, and folds. She removes the extra skin and makes a new opening for your navel. Dr. Bootstaylor finishes by stitching your incisions, and then you are transferred to the recovery room.
The entire procedure takes between 2 - 5 hours.
A tummy tuck is a major surgery, and it takes time to recover. The first few days after your surgery, your tummy area may swell, and you can expect some level of discomfort. Dr. Bootstaylor may prescribe medication to keep you comfortable, and it’s important that you rest during this period.
After five to seven days, Dr. Bootstaylor examines the incision and removes the first layer of stitches. A few weeks later, during another follow-up appointment, she removes the deeper sutures.
Depending on the extent of your tummy tuck, it can take several months for your body to completely heal and your final results to emerge.
Go to the doctor who understands the body shape and silhouette you’re looking for if you’re considering a tummy tuck. Call Dr. Bootstaylor’s office or schedule a consultation online today.
