The Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty), along with other Body, Face, Breast and Nose Procedures that I perform, can help give you a renewed physical and emotional self-confidence. The most important first step is for us to have a consultation to discuss your concerns, needs, expectations and to answer ALL of your questions. Having a mutual understanding is valuable for your success since your well being is my main concern.
Brian D. Cohen, M.D.
Plastic surgery has become increasingly common in recent years. With innovations in surgical techniques, aesthetic refinements, and improved recovery times, more and more individuals are considering procedures like abdominoplasties, known colloquially as “tummy tucks.” If you are thinking that an abdominoplasty may be right for you, contact Dr. Brian D. Cohen, a prominent and gifted plastic surgeon who serves Long Island patients in his Great Neck, Nassau County office.
He is as well-credentialed as they come and highly regarded by colleagues as well as patients. You have only to peek at his website, Brian D. Cohen, MD, to check out his array of achievements, his patients’ effusive testimonials, and the photos showing his remarkable work. A consultation with Dr. Cohen will help you decide whether a tummy tuck is a good idea for you.
What Exactly is an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
An abdominoplasty is a procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen in order to tighten the abdominal wall, including weak connective tissue (fascia), and to create a flatter, smoother contour of the abdomen.
Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
If you have large amounts of loose or sagging skin on your abdomen, or if you are unable to increase your abdominal muscle tone, a tummy tuck may be just the thing to make you feel more youthful and more attractive.
This surgery is quite popular with mothers whose abdomens have been stretched by pregnancy and who are past menopause or who have decided they are not going to bear any more children. Tummy tucks are also often requested by men or women who have lost a substantial amount of weight, either through major lifestyle changes or by undergoing bariatric surgery. Some patients, even without significant weight loss, are prone to sagging skin for hereditary reasons; others have this problem due to previous surgery (such as a C-section), or simply aging. Still, others may have had liposuction to remove excess fat and been left with excess skin.
Although abdominoplasty is a godsend to some, it’s important to remember that it may not be right for you. If you are obese, planning to lose more weight, considering becoming pregnant, have certain medical conditions that put you at increased risk for complications, smoke or abuse drugs or alcohol, a tummy tuck is not appropriate.
The Abdominoplasty Procedure
Dr. Cohen performs abdominoplasties under general anesthesia; they typically take two to three hours to complete. He makes two incisions: one from hip bone to hip bone low on the abdomen (close to the pubic area), and one around the navel. He separates the skin from the abdominal muscles, then pulls those muscles together and stitches them into place. Once this is accomplished, Dr. Cohen will stretch the skin flap over the newly tightened muscles, remove any excess skin, and reattach the navel. To complete the procedure, Dr. Cohen will stitch the incisions closed and apply the necessary dressings. A small tube will be temporarily inserted to drain excess fluid from the surgical site. The result is that you will end up with a firmer abdomen and a narrower waist.
What About Stretch Marks and Scars?
If you have been obese or pregnant, you likely have stretch marks as a result of your skin stretching to accommodate your previously increased girth. While a tummy tuck cannot remove all stretch marks, stretch marks located where excess skin is being excised may diminish or disappear altogether, especially in the lower abdomen below the naval. Dr. Cohen may also be able to enfold a scar from a C-section into the scar from the abdominoplasty.
Recovering from Abdominoplasty
Remember that each individual is unique, so there are variables involved in the healing process. It is possible, for instance, that drains inserted after the procedure may be left in for only a short time or for several days. After your tummy tuck, you will experience moderate pain which will be controlled by pain medication. You will also have swelling in the surgical area and may have a lack of full sensation on the skin around the incision. Sensation will usually return during the ensuing months.
After the surgery, you may be on a blood thinner to prevent dangerous blood clots; a nurse will get you up and walking within hours after the operation for the same reason. You may also be prescribed an antibiotic to prevent infection just before undergoing surgery and through part of your recovery.
Dr. Cohen will explain how best to care for yourself during recovery. You will be wearing an abdominal binder for support (something like a girdle) for approximately six weeks. This garment will serve a dual purpose — helping to keep your body from accumulating fluid and providing necessary abdominal support. During the six weeks after the procedure, you will have to avoid strenuous exercise and certain positions that might reopen your wound. Dr. Cohen will need to see you for follow-up visits to make certain you’re comfortable and progressing well. For optimal results, it is important that you follow Dr. Cohen’s instructions.
Discuss Surgery with a Long Island Tummy Tuck Surgeon
Dr. Brian D. Cohen will be almost as happy as you are to see your slimmer appearance after he has performed your abdominoplasty. He will be even happier to see your restored self-confidence. Most of all, he will be proud of the part he plays in helping you to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Once you have invested in improving your comfort and self-image, you are more likely to be able to maintain a stable weight, improving your chances of living a longer and more satisfying life. Why not contact Dr. Cohen today and schedule an appointment at his Great Neck office.
Also, feel free to browse our before and after photos in our Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Photo Gallery.
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