Want to tighten things up around the waistline? Tired of your post-child-delivery pooch? Below is information about a popular cosmetic body procedure called a tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty) offered by plastic surgeon, Gregory J. Liebscher, MD, FACS, in Colorado Springs, CO:
Abdominoplasty is a body contouring procedure to reshape and minimize the body’s torso. During the procedure, a Dr. Liebscher makes an incision from one hipbone to the other hipbone. He then removes any excess fat or skin and tightens the abdominal muscles. Tummy tucks are often accompanied by liposuction. Patient satisfaction rates are extremely high.
Some patients only like get a ‘little bit of work’ done on their midsection. This is considered a ‘mini tuck.’ With this procedure, typically only the fat below the belly button is removed, instead of both above and below.
Dr. Greg Liebscher performs tummy tucks on both men and women. Fortunately, tummy tucks are safer than ever, deliver great results, and can really boost one’s self confidence. Please contact Dr. Liebscher to schedule an in-person cosmetic consultation to learn whether or not a tummy tuck is right for you:
Watch the Video for the Abdominoplasty Procedure Overview:
In this video, Dr. Greg Liebscher explains what to expect during a tummy tuck procedure along with risks and expected outcomes:
Patient testimonial
“My wonderful husband was always kind to reassure me that this never bothered him, it bothered me and that brought me to my tummy tuck! So with the best plastic surgeon in Colorado Springs Dr. Liebscher on my side my dream has finally come true!” – Trish
Who is an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck?
This surgery can be conducted in both men and women in healthy conditions. Usually, many women opt for this procedure than men. Women who have had many pregnancies often find this procedure very helpful in tightening and reducing their tummy fat. This procedure can also be done on those men and women who were obese once and lost weight gradually with loose skin around the belly.
How does it work?
The procedure is a major surgery. If you smoke or use tobacco products, you must stop smoking or chewing at least two weeks before the surgical procedure. This is because tobacco use slows down the healing process after the surgery. Based on the body fat level, you may need a complete abdominoplasty or a partial one. The mini abdominoplasty is done on those whose fat deposits are located below the navel. This procedure often only takes two hours to complete.
In contrast, a complete abdominoplasty is done when a person has fat all around his or her tummy. In this case, Dr. Liebscher cuts the abdominal skin near the hipbone to contour the entire area, including the muscles, skin, and the tissue. This surgical procedure involves moving your belly button slightly so some drainage tubes may be placed under your skin for at least a few days.
What does an abdominoplasty procedure cost?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of tummy tuck surgery in 2014 was $5,493. Of course, the actual cost for a tummy tuck varies and depends upon your individual situation and how much work is needed. A tummy tuck surgery includes anesthesia fees, surgery center fees, prescription fee, and the surgeon’s fee. A number of insurance companies don’t cover cosmetic surgery such as abdominoplasty under their plans. Dr. Liebscher is very happy to sit down with you during your complimentary consultation to discuss the costs of your procedure with no obligation.
How long does it take?
While the mini surgery takes about 2 hours, a complete abdominoplasty procedure may take up to five hours.
Is it painful?
Patients experience slight swelling and pain around their abdominal area in the days following surgery. Usually, painkiller medicine is prescribed to minimize the post-surgical pain. If you live in Colorado Springs or not, you should arrange to have someone drive you home after the procedure unless advised otherwise.
Watch the video animation for the full tummy tuck procedure
Watch the video animation for the mini tummy tuck procedure
Understanding Safety:
It is highly recommended to consult with Dr. Liebscher about the risks of any cosmetic surgery procedure. It allows you to address any of your concerns. You also learn important pre-surgery and after-care information. Adhering to patient safety best assures you the fastest possible recovery period and optimal outcomes.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) recovery after surgery will take time as the swelling, throbbing and pain dissipates. The pain medication will sooth and relieve the uncomfortable feeling as the healing begins. Bruising may occur which is normal and to be expected. Taking it easy after the tummy tuck surgery will help the healing process with less severity of pain. A list of postoperative instructions for the tummy tuck recovery will advise you about showering, changing the dressings, movements and activity as well as things to be on the alert.
After surgery the abdomen may be tender and bit numb. If at anytime the pain becomes unbearable, consult your doctor as soon as possible. As time heals all wounds, the incisions may begin to itch or become tingly which is normal. Keep an eye on your temperature. If your temperature becomes elevated, this could mean that you may have an infection and your body is giving you a warning sign.
Tips:
- When given antibiotics after surgery, during your tummy tuck recovery phase, take all of the antibiotics during the healing process. This will maintain the unlikelihood of any type of infection. Even though you are feeling better, finish the prescription until it is empty.
- Elevating your head and shoulders for the first 3 months may be more comfortable. Standing up will be a little difficult for a few days, however getting up from bed is easier when sitting is easier when you roll yourself. Less strain on the stomach muscles will be less painful. It will take a few weeks for the tummy tuck recovery process to subside and feel better. This is to be expected.
- Sutures are usually removed within the 5 to 10 day period after surgery depending on the person. For some people it may be 2 weeks until removed. While the sutures are open do not smoke or use nicotine gums or patches, this will interfere with the healing recovery process.
Abdominoplasty, Tummy Tuck in Colorado Springs, CO
To schedule a private in-person cosmetic consultation with Dr. Greg Liebscher at our Colorado Springs office, call 719-634-2503.