Abdominoplasty in Portland

Exploring Your Journey: Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Our primary aim is to assist you in understanding the abdominoplasty procedure, better known as a tummy tuck, as we journey together toward achieving your aesthetic goals.

Who is a candidate?

Candidates for an abdominoplasty are individuals in good health who have excess skin and fat around the belly area that doesn't respond to diet and exercise. This is common among those who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy. It is advisable to be at a stable weight and not planning future pregnancies before undergoing this procedure.

What are the results?

Abdominoplasty is intended to give you a smoother, firmer abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall. The outcome is a sleeker, more contoured abdomen that can enhance your overall figure and boost your confidence.

What does the procedure involve?

n an abdominoplasty, a horizontal incision is made between the pubic hairline and belly button. Through the incision, weakened abdominal muscles are repaired and sutured, and excess fat, tissue, and skin are removed. A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen.

What is the recovery?

Recovery time varies, but many patients are able to return to non-strenuous work within 2-3 weeks. Physical exercise should be avoided for 6 weeks. There will be swelling and discomfort, managed with medication. A compression garment may need to be worn for several weeks to minimize swelling and support the repaired muscles.

What other options are there?

Liposuction alone may be suitable for patients with good skin elasticity and muscle tone, but only moderate fat deposits. A mini-abdominoplasty, a less complex procedure, could be considered for patients with fat deposits only below the navel. We will guide you through these options based on your personal situation and aesthetic goals.

What are the risks?

As with any surgery, there are risks involved, including infection, blood clots, poor wound healing, and changes in skin sensation. Specific to abdominoplasty, risks may also include scarring, skin loss, or asymmetry. We will discuss all potential risks with you thoroughly during your consultation.

We look forward to accompanying you on this transformative journey, offering professional, compassionate guidance every step of the way. Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns. Together, we'll strive to make this a positive, empowering experience for you.

FAQs

  • The cost of a tummy tuck in Portland can vary based on several factors, including the surgeon's experience, the facility where the surgery is performed, and the specific needs of the patient. While it's tempting to seek out the most affordable option, it's crucial to prioritize the surgeon's expertise and the facility's reputation to ensure safety and optimal results.

  • Similar to Portland, the average cost of a tummy tuck in Oregon fluctuates based on the aforementioned factors. It's essential to obtain a personalized quote during a consultation to get an accurate estimate tailored to your unique needs.

  • While a tummy tuck primarily focuses on removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles, some weight loss can occur due to the removal of excess skin and fat. However, it's important to note that abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure but rather a body contouring one.

  • Many patients explore various financing options to make the procedure more manageable. Some plastic surgery clinics offer payment plans, and there are also medical financing companies that provide loans specifically for cosmetic procedures. We offer CareCredit and can certainly discuss payment options during your consultation.

  • While there isn't a strict BMI cutoff for abdominoplasty, a stable weight and a BMI within a healthy range can lead to better surgical outcomes. That being said, our in-office surgical center, the Aesthetic Breast & Cosmetic Surgery Center, recommends a BMI less than 30 to maximize safety during surgery. Patients with a high BMI may face increased risks and complications.

  • There is no difference between the two terms. "Abdominoplasty" is the medical term for what is commonly referred to as a "tummy tuck." Both refer to the surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles.