Pittsburgh Tummy Tuck

One of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures available in Pittsburgh, tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) has likely risen in popularity because of its versatile purposes. It can accomplish a variety of goals for many types of patients, including:

• Women who wish to restore their pre-childbirth figures
• Men who aim to eliminate a protruding, "beer belly" appearance
• Aging individuals who seek to tighten loose, sagging abdominal skin
• Post-weight loss patients whose hanging skin is solely on the midsection
• Those whose excess fat is concentrated exclusively on the stomach area

As you can see, abdominoplasty can achieve a number of objectives. But as with all body contouring procedures, a tummy tuck is not a weight loss surgery. It is designed to reduce excess fat and sagging skin on the midsection; and, tighten stretched-out stomach muscles. Following recovery, our Pittsburgh tummy tuck surgery patients find that the abdomen is firmer, smoother, and far more attractive.

But despite the relatively tame-sounding "tummy tuck" name, abdominoplasty is actually more invasive than most other cosmetic surgeries. This is because it involves removal of skin, extraction of fat tissues, and tightening of stomach muscles. It should only be undergone by patients who thoroughly understand the extensive nature of the surgery. In fact, Dr. Heil is careful to thoroughly assess our Pittsburgh tummy tuck candidates for emotional stability and realistic expectations prior to scheduling surgery.

All tummy tuck patients should be aware that the required incision for tummy tuck surgery will result in a hipbone to hipbone scar. Fortunately, the scar will fade with time, and is easily hidden behind clothing. For women, even a low-rising bikini should adequately camouflage the area.

Pregnancy after Tummy Tuck

Additionally, it's important to note that women should only undergo the procedure after they are relatively certain their childbearing experiences are complete. (Also note: Becoming pregnant after a tummy tuck will not necessarily be harmful to a woman or her child, but the consensus is that it is best not to intentionally take chances.

Potential risks to the fetus rarely occur, but they include less "room" for fetal development; potential complications for the mother include an irregular abdominal appearance during and after pregnancy).

What Happens During a Tummy Tuck

As with any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck commences with the administration of anesthesia. And, as with most major cosmetic procedures, tummy tuck surgery requires general anesthesia so that the patient sleeps comfortably and feels no discomfort.

Once anesthesia has taken effect, Dr. Heil begins. He starts by making an incision across the abdomen, which extends from hip bone to hip bone; its shape is similar to a smile, with a flat bottom just above the pubic area.

A second, smaller incision is then made around the navel to free it from the abdominal tissue. The navel is kept sterile while the remaining steps of the procedure take place, and will be restored to a natural-looking location at the close of the procedure.

Next, the skin is separated from the abdominal wall, exposing the vertical abdominal muscles. These exposed muscles will be tightened, by stitching them into a new position and reducing the waistline.

Finally, the excess skin is further stretched, and then removed. The remaining skin is redraped over the area and sutured into place, and the navel is brought out through the overlying skin to its new location. For information on your subsequent recovery, please read our "day of surgery" and "recovery" sections below.

Liposuction or Tummy Tuck: The Consultation

No matter which of these surgical selections you choose, your initial consultation is the right time to thoroughly discuss the pros and cons of your desired procedure and its potential results. During this time, candidates can also view liposuction or tummy tuck before and after photos, which are examples of results achieved by other patients of our practice. Chances are, you may observe one or more patient photos that appear similar to your own physique; viewing their results can solidify your confidence in our Pittsburgh tummy tuck surgeon, Dr. Heil.

Attending an initial consultation at our practice is not a commitment to undergo surgery; rather, it is an informative session designed to educate you as a prospective patient. If you do opt to proceed as our patient, a pre-operative appointment will need to be scheduled; this normally takes place two weeks prior to your surgery date.

In the interim, you will receive literature that contains pre and post-operative instructions. It is imperative that patients follow these directions carefully, including the extensive list of medications, supplements, and other substances to avoid two weeks before and after your procedure. All qualified surgeons advise patients to avoid these substances during the patient process, as each is known to interfere with successful surgery and healing. Should you have any questions regarding these instructions, your pre-operative appointment is the best time to ask.

Read more about Tummy Tuck surgery.