Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Miami
Even the strictest diets and exercise regimens are sometimes not enough to obtain a flat and toned abdomen. Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is a body contouring procedure that targets small pockets of fat, separated abdominal muscles and loose, excess skin that are resistant to diet and exercise. Dr. Christopher Craft is the tummy tuck surgeon patients in Miami and South Florida trust for beautiful and natural-looking results. The board certified surgeon combines years of experience and excellent surgical skill to help patients bothered by an unflattering tummy get the flat and toned abdomen they desire.
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Who Is a Candidate for Tummy Tuck?
Proper candidates for abdominoplasty /tummy tuck are individuals who:
- Have excess abdominal skin
- Have a protruding abdomen due to a weakened and stretched abdominal wall and muscle separation
- Have excess residual abdominal fat
- Are at or near their ideal body weight
Depending on the amount of fat present on the patient’s tummy, liposuction can be performed to sculpt a more attractive waist and an improved figure. In the right candidate, combining liposuction and tummy tuck can produce superior cosmetic results. Tummy tuck can also be performed as part of a mommy makeover, a cosmetic treatment that addresses various cosmetic concerns caused by pregnancy and breastfeeding. Dr. Craft will discuss all of these options with you during your in-office consultation.
Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
Tummy Tuck Procedure Details
Abdominoplasty can be performed through a variety of techniques depending on each patient’s concerns and individual anatomy. There are two main types of abdominoplasty:
Standard Abdominoplasty
Standard abdominoplasty, or full tummy tuck, removes flaccid abdominal skin and residual fat, and tightens muscles that have been separated and weakened by pregnancy or weight gain. This procedure is most effective in women who are finished having children. Liposuction may be performed at the same time to create a nice contour, although this decision is up to the individual surgeon and patient. Traditional tummy tuck involves creating an incision right above the bikini line, from hip bone to hip bone. The length of the incision needed in full tummy tuck is determined by the amount of excess skin present on the abdomen. Muscle tightening is usually performed to help create a firmer abdominal profile and to sculpt a flatter tummy with better waist contours. During the procedure, an incision is made around the belly button, which is later repositioned to a more youthful appearance.
Immediately after surgery, drains are used to remove the excess fluid that would otherwise accumulate. The drains are usually removed one week after surgery. A compression garment is also placed after surgery and worn during the postoperative period to help the skin contract into the tightest and most beautiful silhouette.
Mini Tummy Tuck (Partial Abdominoplasty)
Mini tummy tuck is recommended when the amount of loose skin is minimal and located primarily on the lower abdomen. In this procedure, the excess skin is removed and liposuction can be performed to eliminate the stubborn abdominal fat. In special candidates, the procedure can be combined with tightening of the muscles along the midline to flatten the tummy. This procedure produces many of the benefits of a full abdominoplasty with a smaller incision and without the telltale incision around the belly button.
“Amazing package!! Great people. Excellent work, super professional, he loves his job and people can see it immediately. One tummy tuck is enough but if I had to do another one It’ill becertainly be with Dr Christopher Craft” – Anonymous, RateMDs.com
Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
Potential benefits of a tummy tuck include:
- Removing excess, sagging abdominal skin
- Tightening separated or weakened abdominal muscles
- Creating a flatter, firmer abdominal contour
- Improving the appearance of some stretch marks located on removed skin
- Refining the waistline and overall body proportions
- Reducing irritation or discomfort caused by folds of excess skin
- Enhancing the results of weight loss or pregnancy-related body changes
- Helping clothing fit more comfortably and smoothly
Why Choose Dr. Christopher Craft for Tummy Tuck Surgery
Dr. Christopher Craft is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and has lengthy training in plastic surgery, general surgery, and trauma surgery. He completed his plastic surgery training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he served as Chief Resident. This comprehensive surgical background contributes to the skill and precision he brings to tummy tuck and body-contouring procedures.
At Christopher Craft Cosmetic Surgery, every tummy tuck is personalized according to the patient’s anatomy, concerns, and aesthetic goals. Dr. Craft carefully considers excess skin, abdominal muscle laxity, stubborn fat, and overall body proportions when developing a surgical plan. His before-and-after results demonstrate the transformative improvements achievable while maintaining balanced, natural-looking body contours. Patients also benefit from attentive care throughout the surgical process, from their initial consultation through recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tuck
How long do tummy tuck results last?
When you maintain a stable weight and relatively healthy lifestyle, your results should last. The excess skin removed during surgery does not come back, although future pregnancy, significant weight changes, and the natural aging process can change the abdominal contour over time.
Will a tummy tuck help with diastasis recti?
Yes. A tummy tuck can address diastasis recti, a separation of the abdominal muscles that is common after pregnancy or major weight changes. During surgery, weakened or separated abdominal muscles can be tightened to create a firmer abdominal wall and improve the appearance of the midsection.
Can a tummy tuck improve lower back discomfort related to weak abdominal muscles?
It may in some patients. When weakened or separated abdominal muscles contribute to poor core support, repairing the abdominal wall during a tummy tuck may improve stability and posture. However, a tummy tuck is not a treatment for all causes of back pain, so an appropriate healthcare provider should evaluate persistent lower back discomfort.
Is tummy tuck recovery painful?
Some discomfort, tightness, swelling, and soreness are expected, particularly during the first several days after surgery. Patients often notice gradual improvement over the following weeks, and your surgeon can provide medications and detailed instructions to help keep you comfortable while you heal.
Will my belly button look natural after a tummy tuck?
Creating a natural-looking belly button is a crucial part of a full tummy tuck. During the procedure, the surrounding abdominal skin is repositioned, and an opening is created so the belly button can sit naturally within the newly contoured abdomen. Its final appearance will continue to improve as swelling resolves and the tissues heal.
Can a tummy tuck remove a C-section scar?
In many cases, yes. Because the tummy tuck incision is made low on the abdomen, an existing C-section scar may be removed along with excess skin or incorporated into the new tummy tuck scar. Whether this is possible depends on the location of your existing scar and the amount of skin being removed.
How long will I need to wear a compression garment after tummy tuck surgery?
Compression garments are commonly worn after a tummy tuck to help control swelling and support the abdomen while it heals. The exact duration varies depending on your procedure and your surgeon’s instructions, although several weeks of compression may be recommended. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons notes that some patients wear a compression garment for approximately four to six weeks.
How should I sleep after a tummy tuck?
During the early stages of recovery, you will generally need to avoid lying completely flat or stretching the abdomen. Sleeping on your back with your upper body and knees slightly elevated can reduce tension on the incision and help you remain comfortable. Follow Dr. Craft’s specific positioning instructions as you progress through recovery.
State Of The Art Facility
