SHOP NOWSometimes fat in the belly or midsection doesn’t respond to exercise and diet and the lower abdomen area can also be prone to unwanted loose skin. Miami tummy tuck specialist Dr. Tal Roudner is a leading board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck surgery. Dr. Roudner’s approach to tummy tuck surgery is to give each patient a more taut, youthful appearance while minimizing visible scars and providing beautiful, natural-looking results.
- What Is Tummy Tuck Surgery?
- Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
- Candidates For Tummy Tuck Surgery
- Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
- Your Personalized Tummy Tuck Treatment Plan
- Preparing For Tummy Tuck Surgery
- The Abdominoplasty Procedure
- Tummy Tuck Recovery & Results
- FAQs About Tummy Tuck Surgery
What Is Tummy Tuck Surgery?
A tummy tuck is an outpatient surgical procedure intended to remove extra fat and skin from the abdomen. In the majority of cases, separated or weakened abdominal muscles are restored to create a firmer, smoother midsection.
Patients in Miami seek out tummy tuck surgery for a variety of reasons, but with similar aesthetic goals. This procedure can improve the appearance of the midsection and correct the abdominal wall for a trimmer waist and a flatter stomach. Dr. Roudner utilizes his extensive surgical experience to ensure that patients receive adequate reconstructive results in addition to meeting their cosmetic goals. This means that he is careful to re-establish the appropriate anatomy of the muscular layer to prevent the recurrence of hernias and restore the structural integrity of the abdominal wall.
Dr. Rounder performs tummy tuck surgery for men and women in Miami. Female patients are often looking to establish or restore an hourglass shape and minimize lower belly pooch. For male patients, Dr. Roudner focuses on reducing girth in the midsection for a more masculine V shape. Even patients who are at a healthy body weight with a consistent exercise routine may suffer from stubborn fat, loose abdominal skin, or a protruding belly.
Some of the common causes of stubborn unwanted belly fat or sagging abdominal skin include:
- Aging
- Pregnancy
- Heredity
- Gaining and/or losing a significant amount of weight
- Prior abdominal surgery
Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
Tummy tuck surgery can have many benefits for the right candidates.* In addition to the cosmetic benefits, an expertly performed tummy tuck will also improve the abdominal muscles. Tummy tuck surgery has a very high patients satisfaction rate—studies show that 99% of patients who had tummy tuck combined with liposuction are pleased with their results.<sup.1
Possible benefits of this cosmetic surgery procedure include:
- Increased confidence
- Improved muscle tone and posture
- Excess skin that causes physical discomfort can be removed
- Scarring can usually be easily hidden
- Depending on their location, stretch marks may be removed
- Repair of diastasis recti, which is the separation of the abdominal muscles that often occurs during pregnancy or underwent a C-section
- Tummy tuck may be combined with other procedures, such as liposuction or a mommy makeover
*Individual results may vary
Candidates For Tummy Tuck Surgery
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are typically men and women who are concerned with the appearance of their midsection and:
- Do not smoke
- Are at a steady weight
- In general good health
- Have reasonable expectations as to what a tummy tuck procedure can do for you
While the results of abdominoplasty are considered permanent, a continued positive outcome can be diminished if your weight fluctuates significantly. Consequently, you may not be a good candidate if you are planning a future pregnancy or substantial weight loss. If this is the case, Dr. Roudner may advise you to postpone your tummy tuck.
Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
The safety of your tummy tuck procedure depends greatly on your candidness during your consultation with Dr. Roudner. Your candidness also affects the result of your tummy tuck procedure. Dr. Roudner will ask you several questions in relation to your lifestyle, health, and desired outcome.
When preparing for your initial consultation for a tummy tuck, it is important to be ready to discuss several key aspects of your medical history and personal lifestyle. This includes information on any drug allergies you may have, as well as any previous surgeries or medical treatments you have undergone. You should also be prepared to provide details on any medications, herbal supplements, or vitamins that you are currently taking, as well as any use of tobacco, recreational drugs, or alcohol. Additionally, it is important to be clear about your reasons for wanting a tummy tuck procedure and what your desired outcome is. By having this information ready and being open and honest with Dr. Roudner, you can ensure that you receive the best possible care and achieve your desired results.
At your initial consultation for a tummy tuck with Dr. Roudner, you can expect a thorough evaluation of your current health and risk factors, as well as an assessment of any pre-existing health issues. During the consultation, Dr. Roudner will also discuss your options for treatment and provide recommendations based on your unique needs and desired outcome. This may include addressing any potential complications or risks associated with the tummy tuck procedure. Additionally, Dr. Roudner will discuss what to expect following the procedure, including the potential results and any necessary follow-up care. By providing this information, Dr. Roudner can help ensure that you have a clear understanding of what to expect throughout your tummy tuck journey and can achieve the best possible outcome.
Your Personalized Tummy Tuck Treatment Plan
Dr. Roudner recognizes that each patient has unique needs and goals when it comes to tummy tuck surgery. He will thoroughly evaluate your physical condition and medical history and discuss your desired results before creating your personalized treatment plan. Dr. Roudner utilizes a dynamic patient classification system in order to optimize surgical techniques and deliver the best possible tummy tuck results. Patients are classified into types:
Type I
Type I tummy tuck patients are typically younger, with favorable skin elasticity, good muscle tone, and no abdominal wall separation. They may seek abdominoplasty due to isolated abnormal fat distribution (lipodystrophy).
Type II
Type II tummy tuck patients are often women who have had at least one pregnancy that has resulted in mild lower abdominal laxity and muscle separation (diastasis recti) and mild to moderate abnormal fat distribution (lipodystrophy.
Type III
These patients typically have muscle wall laxity, including separation (diastasis of the rectus muscles). Female type III patients may have had multiple pregnancies and generally have significant stretch marks and fat distribution below the belly button.
Type IV
Type IV patients generally exhibit severe upper and lower laxity of skin and muscle, resulting in significant sagging skin. They also may have deposits of excess fat throughout the abdominal area and also suffer from abdominal muscle separation (Diastasis recti).
Preparing For Tummy Tuck Surgery
Preparing for tummy tuck surgery can help ensure a successful outcome and smooth recovery. To prepare for the surgery, you’ll need to follow Dr. Roudner’s instructions closely. This may include abstaining from certain medications, supplements, or activities before surgery. You should also arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first few days after surgery. Additionally, it is important to stock up on any necessary supplies, such as loose-fitting clothing, compression garments, and wound care supplies. You should also prepare your home environment for a comfortable recovery, including setting up a designated recovery area and arranging for any necessary childcare or pet care. By taking these steps and working closely with Dr. Roudner, you can feel confident and well-prepared for your tummy tuck surgery.
The Abdominoplasty Procedure
Prior to your abdominoplasty, you will receive sedative medications to ensure you are comfortable during your tummy tuck procedure. Dr. Roudner will recommend either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation (for minor procedures). Tummy tuck surgery can take on average between two to four hours depending on the size and weight of the patient. A full tummy tuck procedure requires Dr. Roudner to make a horizontal incision above the pubic hairline. He will determine the length and shape of the incision by the degree of correction he is making.
Depending on the patient’s needs, Dr. Roudner may repair and suture weakened abdominal muscles, as well as remove excess tissue, fat, and skin. Removing excess skin in the upper lateral abdomen may require a second vertical incision. A series of different procedures may be performed while removing excess skin and fatty tissue, such as repositioning the belly button (umbilicus) and performing liposuction.
Tummy Tuck Recovery & Results
After your tummy tuck surgery at our Miami office, dressings will be placed over your incisions. In some cases, you will also be given a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your abdomen during the healing process.
Dr. Tal Roudner may place small, thin tubes beneath your skin to drain excess fluid or blood that collects. You will receive instructions as to how to care for your drain and the surgical site. The drains are temporary and will be removed once the drainage stops.
Patients typically require two weeks away from work to recover after a tummy tuck procedure, and there will be physical activity restrictions for six weeks. In general, patients resume all regular activities after six weeks of recovery.
Postoperative instructions will include:
- Which medications to apply to your incision or take by mouth to reduce the possibility of infection
- Specific characteristics to look for in your health and at your surgical site
- When to follow-up with Dr. Roudner
Your Miami tummy tuck results may be hard to see initially due to swelling and the inability to stand straight. However, within a few months, you should be able to appreciate the full results of your abdominoplasty.
FAQs About Tummy Tuck Surgery
Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?
A tummy tuck cannot be used as a substitute for an exercise program or weight loss. Successful tummy tuck patients are typically already invested in a healthy lifestyle and have maintained a stable weight for a significant period of time.
Will a tummy tuck get rid of stretch marks?
An abdominoplasty will not correct all stretch marks, although stretch marks beneath your belly button may be removed if they are in the area of your excess skin.
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
The price of tummy tuck surgery can vary depending on a number of factors. Patients considering tummy tuck options in Miami should take into account the experience, results, and board certification of their tummy tuck surgeon. Tummy tuck pricing with Dr. Roudner typically ranges between $8,000 to $18,000 and can fluctuate depending on the individual needs and goals of each patient. Patients who require only a mini-tummy tuck can expect a lower overall cost than patients who require an extended tummy tuck or a combination of procedures in order to achieve their desired results. Contact our office to learn more about tummy tuck financing options.
What’s the difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck?
Keeping with his commitment to providing each patient with personalized care, Dr. Roudner will utilize a variety of surgical techniques as part of each patient’s tummy tuck treatment plan. Patients with minimal loose skin and no muscle separation may benefit from a “mini tummy tuck.” Depending on your patient classification, which will be evaluated and discussed in your consultation appointment, the following procedural practices may guide his technique:
Type I
Type I patients typically have excess fat that can be treated with liposuction alone. Several small incisions may be made in or below the belly button. Standard liposuction and power-assisted suction can be used.
Type II
A mini-tummy tuck (mini-abdominoplasty), combines minimal-length abdominal incisions to allow resection of redundant infra-umbilical skin, it is suitable for type II patients and includes conservative liposuction with resection of the lower abdominal skin. Dissection along the midline below the belly button (umbilicus) allows tightening of muscle laxity. The umbilical stalk is preserved.
Type III
A patient classified as Type III will typically require a modified tummy tuck. This involves detaching the belly button and repairing the lower and upper abdominal muscles. Dr. Roudner takes great care to ensure the belly button retains a natural look.
Type IV
Type IV patients will generally require a full or extended tummy tuck to achieve desired results. The abdominal skin will be lifted and resected in order to minimize loose skin. The belly button will be repositioned and the entire abdominal muscle wall will be tightened.
Does tummy tuck surgery have any risks?
A surgical procedure like abdominoplasty carries some risk of complications including but not limited to anesthesia risks, infection, and blood clots. Your risks can be significantly reduced by choosing an experienced board-certified surgeon and by following all pre and post-procedure guidelines. Dr. Roudner will explain and discuss all risks for potential complications to ensure that you make an informed decision when choosing to have tummy tuck surgery.
Will I have scars after tummy tuck surgery?
Yes, it is likely that you will have scars after a tummy tuck surgery. The extent and visibility of your tummy tuck scars will depend on the specific technique used during the surgery, as well as individual factors such as skin type and healing ability.
While the incision is carefully placed to minimize visible scarring, it will still result in a scar that may be red, raised, or lumpy in appearance during the initial healing period. Over time, the scar will gradually fade and flatten, although it may never completely disappear.
To help minimize scarring and promote optimal healing, it is important to follow Dr. Roudner’s post-operative care instructions carefully, including keeping the incision clean and dry, avoiding strenuous activity, and protecting the incision from sun exposure. Dr. Roudner will also recommend scar care products or treatments to help improve the appearance of the scar over time.
Schedule A Consultation For Tummy Tuck Surgery In Miami
Dr. Tal Roudner is a leader in the field of plastic surgery and he has helped many patients regain confidence and achieve the body of their dreams. If you have any questions about tummy tuck surgery, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation, simply fill out the form below.
1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Improve Quality of Life, Reports Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/press-releases/liposuction-and-tummy-tuck-improve-quality-of-life-reports-plastic-and-reconstructive-surgery. Accessed March 8, 2023.
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Tummy Tuck. Available https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tummy-tuck/candidates. Accessed March 8, 2023.
3 Mayo Clinic. Tummy Tuck. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tummy-tuck/about/pac-20384892. Accessed March 8, 2023.
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