Your Plus Size Tummy Tuck Journey Revealed!
Over the last 20+ years, Dr. Masri performed various tummy tucks, wrote many articles, and shared tips about plus-size surgery procedures.
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Dr. Masri is an expert plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience operating on high BMI patients.
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A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery that aims to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. The result is a more sculpted appearance.
We highly recommend this procedure for individuals who have achieved significant weight loss. This may be a result of surgery and/or diet and exercise. A tummy tuck procedure is also great for those who have experienced changes in their abdominal area after pregnancy.
A plus size tummy tuck is an effective solution for refining your silhouette and achieving a more contoured abdomen. This effectively removes extra stubborn skin. Tummy tucks help individuals achieve a well-defined waistline and enhance their natural curves.
It offers both aesthetic and physical health benefits. By removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, this surgical procedure can:
Thorough research and preparation for any type of surgery are vital. We recommend finding an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with a proven track record. Following pre-operative and recovery directions will also enhance your overall experience.
Whether your surgery takes place in a hospital or outpatient setting, you should understand the advantages and risks. By asking relevant questions, you’ll ensure an optimal outcome.
Ideal candidates for plus size tummy tuck are those looking to achieve a flat and toned belly. They struggle with excess skin and fat despite weight loss efforts. This includes individuals who have undergone significant weight loss. This happens through surgery or diet and exercise, as well as women aiming to restore their pre-pregnancy body.
Click here to learn what your plus size tummy tuck will cost.
One crucial consideration is the location where the procedure will take place, whether it is a hospital, office, or outpatient setting. Each option has its advantages, but it is essential to understand the associated risks and safety considerations. Equally important is discussing the expected outcomes of the procedure, including recovery time and any limitations. Asking about specific activities like showering, driving, and exercising after surgery can provide valuable insights into the recovery process.
Utilize online resources, including patient reviews, to gather valuable information and gain a better understanding of the procedure. Before and after images can also provide insights into potential outcomes.
Additionally, explore informative websites and third-party resources to equip yourself with knowledge that will enable you to ask the right questions during your consultation with the surgeon. Prioritize understanding the risks and complications associated with the procedure and choose a skilled surgeon who understands the unique needs of plus-sized patients.
Once you have an interest in a specific procedure, acquire as much information as possible.
Browsing previous patients’ before and after photos can help you set expectations.
Select a surgeon who you have rapport with, and who values your comfort.
Once you feel well-informed, schedule a consultation. Discuss your goals, ask questions, and learn what your timeline will look like.
During the evaluation process for a plussize tummy tuck, the plastic surgeon considers various factors.
These include reviewing the patient’s medical and surgery history, including questions about medications, allergies, and social habits. We also consider recent hospitalizations.
Additionally, we investigate the family’s history of cancer, bleeding, and clotting disorders. If a woman has a strong family history of breast cancer, she may not be eligible for abdominoplasty.
Physical examination
To determine your eligibility for the procedure and choose the most effective approach, the plastic surgeon will conduct a comprehensive physical examination. This evaluation is vital in assessing your suitability as a candidate and identifying the procedure best suited to help you achieve your desired outcomes.
The surgeon also evaluates the amount and distribution of excess skin and visceral fat. This step is crucial as it helps the surgeon adapt their approach for optimal results based on their ratios. Additionally, the surgeon considers the elasticity of your skin, which is vital, especially if you have experienced significant weight loss that may have affected your skin’s natural elasticity. Furthermore, any existing scars or stretch marks are examined as they can influence the overall outcome of the procedure. Ensuring a comprehensive assessment of visceral fat, skin elasticity, and the impact of scars and stretch marks is essential for achieving the desired results.
During the examination, the surgeon also assesses for potential hernias or abdominal defects, such as rectus diastasis. This condition, characterized by a separation of the abdominal muscles, can occur during pregnancy or due to weight gain. If detected, it will be addressed during the procedure to ensure the best outcomes.
Deciding on plus size tummy tuck option
Depending on the individuals’ specific needs, options may include a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck, or a customized procedure. Trust our experienced surgeons to provide the best tummy tuck solutions to help you achieve the desired results.
Before your surgery date your surgeon will have requested medical clearance from your primary care physician. This typically includes collecting certain lab work, chest x-rays, EKGs, and other relevant tests. These evaluations ensure you are in good health and well-prepared for the procedure.
Getting ready for surgery can feel overwhelming.
Thorough preparation is crucial for a smooth experience, especially the evening before your plastic surgery procedure. When preparing for surgery, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s medication instructions.
The hospital’s anesthesiologist will also reach out to discuss any medications that should be discontinued. Staying hydrated is crucial, and some hospitals may have specific protocols in place for doing so. Generally, a light dinner is recommended, and refraining from eating or drinking after 10pm, unless advised otherwise by the anesthesiologist.
Additionally, some hospitals may suggest using a special soap for bathing the night before to minimize bacteria on your skin. Prioritize your health and adhere to these guidelines for a successful surgery.
On the day of your surgery, the hospital’s registration team will warmly welcome you. A dedicated preoperative nurse will guide you through the necessary preparations, including obtaining consents and administering medication through an IV catheter. The anesthesia and operating room teams will thoroughly review your medical history and address any concerns to ensure a smooth procedure.
Entering an operating room can be a source of anxiety for many individuals. It is natural to feel uneasy in the cold and intimidating environment. However, familiarizing yourself with the operating room process can provide you with knowledge and preparedness for your procedure, ultimately helping you relax and know what to expect.
We will give a brief overview of what to expect when being wheeled into an operating room for plastic surgery, to alleviate anxiety in unfamiliar surroundings.
In the OR
In the operating room the safety and well-being of the patient are paramount concerns for the entire operating room team, which includes the nurse anesthetist, anesthesiologist, scrub tech, and surgeon. These highly skilled professionals collaborate to deliver optimal care during the surgical procedure. Entering the operating room may seem daunting, but remember that
The team is fully dedicated and is supporting you throughout the entire process.
From the moment you enter the room until your recovery, your well-being is their utmost priority.
The operating room can be an overwhelming environment filled with bright lights, masked personnel, and advanced machinery. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the equipment and techniques used to alleviate any anxieties. Monitors continuously track vital signs, while oxygen ensures an adequate supply. Blankets and drapes maintain a sterile surgical site, and Sequential Compression Devices help prevent blood clots during longer procedures. While it may initially seem daunting, understanding the operating room empowers patients, making them feel more informed and at ease during what can be a stressful experience.
The time has come!
It’s time for the surgical procedure. The skilled anesthesia team will begin by administering oxygen through a mask and providing sedation via your IV. They will then utilize a combination of medications to induce unconsciousness. A breathing tube will be carefully inserted into your mouth and down your windpipe.
It’s crucial to differentiate between sedation and anesthesia.
Sedation helps you relax and alleviates nervousness, while anesthesia temporarily induces sleep. Prior to the procedure, our dedicated medical professionals will thoroughly discuss all the necessary details with you, ensuring your preparedness for surgery.
The plus size tummy tuck procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, resulting in beautifully defined contours.
Additionally, it includes tailoring and repositioning the belly button and pubis to enhance aesthetics.
Skin and fat are removed from areas of the abdomen that your surgeon has marked and measured preoperatively.
Dissection through the tissues and along surgical planes is performed with a scalpel and electrocautery.
Tissue and blood vessels are meticulously sutured or cauterized to control bleeding.
Once dissection and excision is complete, the skin of the abdomen is tailored and draped over the abdomen. Several different types of sutures are used to put everything back together.
The goal is to create an elegant hourglass silhouette through expert shaping of the hips and flanks. The precise removal of excess skin and fat in these areas enhances the prominence of the hips, while minimizing visible scarring. It will also enhance the waistline appearance by tightening the abdominal muscles and creating an internal corset. This procedure may also indirectly improve the appearance of the breasts and buttocks.
After the procedure, wound dressings, an abdominal binder or compression garment are placed. Once anesthesia wears off, careful monitoring is performed in the recovery room. Transfer to a designated surgical floor/room happens after spending around 30 minutes to 1 hour in the recovery room.
The Recovery Room = Optimal Care
This is the area of the hospital where patients receive close and vigilant monitoring for any potential postoperative complications, such as bleeding, respiratory issues, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, are continuously observed to ensure a smooth and successful recovery.
Once transferred to the surgical floor/room, nurses closely monitor the patient’s vital signs and administer pain management medication as needed. Medical staff also support patients in early mobilization and movement, helping to prevent blood clots and promote speedy recovery. This proactive approach ensures optimal care and faster healing.
While in the hospital there are several advantages to consider that can greatly benefit patients.
One of these advantages is assistance with early ambulation, which involves getting up and moving around. This not only helps stimulate deep breathing and lung expansion but also aids in the overall recovery process. Additionally, the use of incentive spirometry and sequential compression devices can further enhance these benefits.
Another advantage of a 23-hour hospital stay is the immediate attention provided in the event of a post-operative complication. In addition, the hospital offers state-of-the-art laboratory and radiographic equipment, which are essential in diagnosing and treating potential complications.
Furthermore, the hospital environment allows for more effective pain management through intravenous administration, which may not be readily available outside of the hospital setting. This ensures that patients are provided with optimal pain relief during their recovery.
Finally, the presence of diagnostic equipment and specialists in the hospital is crucial in diagnosing and treating more serious complications, such as deep venous thrombosis or pulmonary embolism, in a timely manner.
Transfer to the Surgical floor/Room
Upon arrival to the surgical floor, patients are typically positioned in a reclined posture. At this stage, they may be offered ice chips or clear liquids before transitioning to a preoperative diet. Pain medication, anti-nausea medication, antacids, and possibly antibiotics may also be administered. To prevent respiratory complications, the use of an incentive spirometer is often encouraged to promote deep breathing exercises.
Nurses assist patients with ambulation to minimize the risk of complications such as deep venous thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Sequential compression devices, in the form of pneumatic compression socks, may be applied to the lower extremities while the patient is in bed to further reduce the risk of DVT and PE. The surgeon may choose to keep the Foley Catheter in place for postoperative hydration monitoring, which is typically removed when deemed appropriate. Postoperative administration of blood thinning medications may also be prescribed.
In certain cases, patients with a high BMI may be discharged home after careful monitoring during the recovery period, at the discretion of the surgeon and following discussion during the consultation. Factors considered include the patient’s medical condition, activity level, and surgical requirements.
Hospital Discharge: What to Expect After Surgery
Before you can be discharged from the hospital, certain criteria need to be met the day after your surgery.
Throughout your hospital stay, your surgeon will closely monitor your vital signs, including temperature, blood pressure, pulse, and breathing rate to ensure there are no complications. We will also observe the amount and characteristics of your urine to ensure proper hydration and monitor fluid drainage from any tubes. The Foley catheter will be removed the next morning, and your diet will gradually return to normal. During the postoperative evaluation, your surgeon will assess and manage your pain and nausea. Once you can eat a regular diet, urinate, and walk comfortably with adequate pain management, you’ll be ready to go home.
After your discharge
Your surgeon may have already prescribed medications for you prior to discharge. This ensures that you have pain relief readily available. The specific type and dosage of pain medication will be based on your medical history, past experiences, and local regulations on controlled substances. It’s important to have these medications on hand without any delays.
The hospital and your surgeon’s office will typically provide you with written discharge instructions. You might have already scheduled a follow-up appointment with your surgeon prior to the operation or received instructions to call and schedule one.
Traveling to and from your destination can pose challenges depending on your mode of transportation, so it’s wise to plan for a comfortable journey. Ensure a smooth recovery with comprehensive post-operative guidelines and convenient travel arrangements.
After reaching your destination, it's crucial to understand that this marks the beginning of a new phase in your recovery.
You’ll now be responsible for various aspects of your recovery.
Relying on your plastic surgeon for postoperative information is vital, as opinions from social media, friends, family, or other physicians may not supply the correct answers. Seek guidance from your surgeon to ensure proper treatment and continuity of care. If your postoperative treatment requires involvement from another specialist, ask your surgeon to initiate or explore those options.
Throughout your journey, the accessibility and support of your plastic surgeon play a significant role. Feel free to ask questions and obtain the necessary feedback for a seamless recovery.
Your first post-operative office visit
This is a significant milestone in your recovery process.
During this visit, your surgeons will assess your wounds, examine the drains, and check if you have been following your medication regimen, staying active, and keeping to a healthy diet with regular bowel movements. They will also supply guidance on using the compression garment correctly, allowing you to take a refreshing shower while protecting the drains. Remember to always wear the compression garment after bathing.
This visit will reveal the initial results of your surgery, giving you an opportunity to see the outcome without any dressings or bandages. Remember, this is an initial evaluation of the results. Three to six months of healing is necessary to appropriately evaluate results. Your plastic surgeon and their team will be there to support and guide you throughout this journey. Trust them for the best post-operative care and a successful recovery.
Follow-Up for Future Office/Virtual Visits
Follow-up visits can be scheduled either in person or virtually. Your surgeon will closely watch your progress in the upcoming weeks, paying close attention to the appearance of the incisions during subsequent post-op visits. They will carefully check for any signs of infection or wound separation (dehiscence) and evaluate the drain output to decide the optimal time for their removal. Based on these findings, any necessary recommendations or changes to the treatment plan will be made. It is not unusual to see areas of redness or localized swelling that may require specific treatment approaches as determined by your plastic surgeon.
Plus-sized tummy tucks may have specific complications to be aware of!
We look out for wound dehiscence, infection, skin necrosis, hypertrophic and/or keloid scarring. Seromas, fluid collections under the skin, can also impede healing.
If any issues arise, consult your surgeon for a personalized treatment plan.
This may include antibiotics, wound debridement, specialized wound care, aspiration of seromas, or drain replacement. Promptly communicate with your plastic surgeon if you experience serious complications like DVT/PE. Discuss signs and symptoms of these conditions with your surgeon before and after surgery to ensure optimal care.
After undergoing a plus size tummy tuck or any other plastic surgery, it’s crucial to understand the different activities involved in your recovery.
The timing for each activity can vary based on your pre-surgery condition, the specific procedure performed, and your adherence to post-operative instructions.
Optimize your recovery with this comprehensive timeline for plus size tummy tuck and other plastic surgery procedures. Find out when you can get back to your daily activities and make informed decisions for a smooth and successful recovery.
When it comes to the final outcomes, it’s important to understand that the complete results of a plus size tummy tuck procedure require time to fully manifest. This surgical intervention involves the removal of excess abdominal skin and fat, along with tightening and repositioning of tissues to create a more defined waistline.
For most individuals, it is generally recommended to begin basic post-operative activities within 2-4 weeks. However, engaging in more strenuous activities that require higher physical demands may need a longer recovery period of around 3 months. It is important to avoid rushing into activities too soon, as this can have a negative impact on your recovery process and the ultimate outcome. Take the necessary time to heal and consult with your healthcare professional for guidance.
During the healing process, it’s normal to experience significant swelling, which can vary in duration. This swelling is a natural part of the wound healing process, and it may take several months to accurately assess the results. Additionally, it’s worth noting that scars may take up to a year to fully mature and become less noticeable as you progress through the recovery journey. Rest assured that with time and proper care, you can achieve the desired outcomes from this procedure.
Revisions to enhance scarring or the final appearance are typically performed 6 months to 1 year after the first procedure. It’s important to have realistic expectations about the healing process and allow sufficient time for recovery before considering revisions or additional procedures. Patience and diligence during the post-operative period are key to achieving desired results. Make sure to schedule regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to track progress and address any concerns.
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How to maintain your results and preserve your desired figure
It is crucial to adopt a holistic approach to a healthy lifestyle.
This includes following a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and considering various factors that can affect the longevity of your results.
Ageing, weight fluctuations, tobacco use, and excessive sun exposure are all factors that can affect your physique in the long run. By being mindful of these factors and taking proactive steps to mitigate their impact, you can improve the sustainability of your desired results. Remember, it’s not just about achieving your goals initially – it’s about keeping them for the long term. Invest in a comprehensive and sustainable healthy lifestyle to optimize your fitness journey.
Multiple combined surgeries
In certain cases, it is not always recommended for a plastic surgeon to perform multiple procedures simultaneously. For instance, if a patient desires a plus-size tummy tuck and a breast reduction, the surgeon will carefully assess various factors to determine the suitability of a combined procedure.
The patient’s overall medical condition is the primary consideration, along with factors such as physical activity level, potential surgery duration (which can affect complication rates), existing blood levels, and the amount of tissue to be removed. These factors may influence the potential for blood loss. Your doctor will take all these aspects into account to decide the safest and most effective approach to help you achieve the desired results.
It is generally recommended to wait for a period of three to six months before contemplating any further procedures. The specific duration depends on the patient’s recovery from the first procedure and the professional recommendations provided by the surgeon. This waiting period ensures the best healing and allows for the best outcomes.
Plus size plastic surgery provides a range of options for individuals with higher BMIs who want body improvement or transformation. These procedures effectively address concerns such as excess skin, skin laxity, and unwanted fat deposits, resulting in enhanced shape and contour. They are also beneficial for those who have undergone weight loss through surgery, diet, or exercise. Additionally, mothers looking to regain a more youthful appearance after childbirth can find significant value in these procedures.
To embark on your transformation journey, the first step is to find a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in working with plus size individuals. Thoroughly researching your chosen surgeon and discussing your goals, concerns, and potential risks during a consultation are crucial for informed decision-making.
Maintaining realistic expectations and having a comprehensive understanding of the recovery process are essential. Following post-operative instructions and attending follow-up appointments play a vital role in achieving the best results for your transformation.
Plus size plastic surgery offers both physical and psychological benefits, empowering patients with increased confidence and self-esteem. Embrace and love your body through these transformative procedures. However, it’s crucial to understand that plastic surgery is not a cure-all or a substitute for addressing underlying mental health concerns. Seek guidance from a professional therapist before considering any surgical interventions.
The decision to undergo plus size plastic surgery is a personal one, driven by individual preferences and not societal pressures or unrealistic beauty standards. Prioritizing personal well-being and happiness over societal expectations is of utmost importance.
Plus size plastic surgery can be a transformative experience, empowering individuals to achieve their desired physical appearance and improve overall well-being. With the guidance of a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in plus size procedures, proper research, and realistic expectations, these procedures can help you on your journey towards self-acceptance and confidence.
Embrace your body, prioritize self-love, and let plastic surgery be a tool that enhances your self-image. Remember, true beauty comes from within, and there is no shame in wanting to enhance how you look and feel. Explore your options and make a decision that best suits your needs and desires.
The final plus size tummy tuck surgery cost depends on various factors, such as the extent of the treatment area, facility and laboratory fees, medications, location, and your surgeon’s expertise, to name a few.
A tummy tuck is seldom covered by insurance, but most plastic surgeons offer financing options to curb the price. Be sure to also ask about plus size tummy tuck cost so you can prepare your finances.
