Introduction | Liposuction | Face | Tummy Tuck | Breast | Male Breast | Butt Lift | Eyelid & Eyebrow | Fat Transfer | Vagina
| Laser Skin Care | Injectable
The traditional full tummy tuck addresses the three defective components (skin, fat, and muscle) so that it benefits patients who opt for a flat stomach and tight skin. Under general anesthesia, a relatively long incision on the bikini line just above the pubic area is made. A second incision is then made around the belly button. The skin and fat together are separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up the rib cage, exposing the rectus muscles fascia (the sheath that covers the muscles and works as an inner girdle). The fascia is then sutured to tighten loose or stretched out muscles below the fascia, forming a tighter abdominal wall and a thinner waist. The skin is stretched down, and excess skin and fat are removed. A new opening is cut on the skin for re-positioning of the belly button, in which drains are typically inserted to eliminate fluid and blood buildup. Every effort is made to hide the scars in the bikini area. The incision is then closed, and a firm dressing is placed on the abdomen. A small, but effective, liposuction is often performed in conjunction with the tummy tuck. This is done to remove excess fat from the hips and flanks for a more satisfying contour result.
The traditional tummy tuck is associated with a relatively high complication rate due to the large undermining of the anterior abdominal flap, which can cause extensive trauma and compromise the blood supply to the abdominal flap. General anesthesia is typically required for the surgery because of the extensive tissue dissection and manipulation.
The management of the belly button, skin incisions, and amount of skin removed are identical in both procedures. The tightening of the muscles can be performed with either procedure. However, Dr. Shu’s technique can remove a larger amount of fat, which can improve abdominal contour by thinning the fat layer considerably more compared to a traditional tummy tuck, while also decreasing the risks of skin necrosis. In addition, Dr. Shu’s approach does not require the use of traditional suction drains in some patients.
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