Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Miami, FL

Home > Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Miami, FL

In Miami, as well as in the rest of the United States and across the world, it is especially important to look your best. Abdominoplasty or “Tummy Tuck” is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fatty tissue from the abdomen, as well as tighten the underlying musculature. A tummy tuck performed by Dr. Gershenbaum from our Miami cosmetic surgery center will tighten stretched, wrinkled skin, creating a firmer, flatter abdomen and narrower waistline.

Protruding abdomens or those with loose, wrinkled, or hanging skin and fatty tissue, causes distress to thousands of people. Weak abdominal muscles, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and surgical scars can wreak havoc on our lower midsections. For many people, this area does not respond well to diet and exercise and surgical measures are needed, in this case a tummy tuck.

Tummy Tuck Overview

Abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is not a substitute for weight reduction and it is not meant as a treatment for obesity. The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck has relatively normal weight with weak abdominal muscles and excess skin and fat of the lower abdomen. Loss of skin elasticity, which frequently occurs with slight obesity in older patients, or extreme fluctuations in weight, can result in loose, stretched, hanging skin, as well as fat in the lower abdomen. These conditions can be improved with this procedure. If stretch marks are a problem, only the marks on the excess or hanging skin will be removed. Abdominal wall hernias and/or abdominal scars can sometimes be complicating factors that may also be corrected during tummy tuck surgery.

Tummy Tuck Consultation

At our Miami, Florida cosmetic surgery center, emphasis is placed on a thorough initial consultation. During the first visit, Dr. Sam Gershenbaum, will review the patient’s medical history, goals and expectations, as well as build mutual trust and rapport. Before and after photos from previous abdominoplasty procedures performed by Dr. Gershenbaum will be reviewed. He will examine the patient’s abdomen and will create a treatment plan to meet individual needs.

Liposuction of the hips, waist and/or flanks is often performed at the same time as abdominoplasty, enhancing the waistline and back for optimal results.

“Mini” Abodminoplasty

In selected cases, Dr. Gershenbaum may recommend a less extensive “mini” or “modified” abdominoplasty. These procedures can be individualized to treat, conditions such as loose muscle tone without excess skin and fat. The procedure can also treat excess skin and fat without loose muscle tone. A “mini” abdominoplasty usually treats conditions or problems isolated to the lower abdomen. In these cases, an incision around the belly button (umbilicus) may not be necessary. The abdominal wall and muscles may be tightened depending on the requirements of the patient.

Prospective abdominoplasty patients are encouraged to speak with previous patients about their surgery and results. Dr. Gershenbaum and his staff are always available for questions about abdominoplasty at our Miami, Florida center. Please contact the Center for Cosmetic Surgery and Hair Restoration to schedule an appointment today!

About the Tummy Tuck Surgery

Every tummy tuck performed at our Miami, Florida cosmetic surgery center is performed with the utmost care and latest techniques. Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery generally takes between two and three, hours plus additional time for liposculpture, if performed. The line of incision and areas for liposculpture are outlined. After speaking with the anesthetist or anesthesiologist, the patient is brought to the operating room. Once asleep, medication is administered to reduce bleeding.

Tummy Tuck surgery also results in a scar around the belly button (umbilicus), as this is made free to allow removal of the excess and loose skin. During a tummy tuck, skin and fat are separated from the abdominal wall, by a transverse incision across the lower abdomen to the lower portion of the rib cage. The underlying abdominal wall and muscles are tightened with sutures (stitches), which provide a firmer and flatter abdominal wall, as well as a narrower waistline. The elevated skin is then lowered and the excess removed. The belly button (umbilicus) is then repositioned to its normal location.

Prior to closure, a long-acting anesthetic is administered along the muscle wall and incision, which dramatically reduces post-operative discomfort. The abdominoplasty incision is closed with sutures predominantly below the level of the skin to avoid cross-hatching and suture marks. A light dressing and elastic binder is then applied.

Abdominoplasty Recovery Period

After a tummy tuck procedure at our Miami cosmetic surgery center, patients will experience a minimum amount of swelling and soreness in the upper and lower abdomen region. Dr. Gershenbaum will prescribe pain medication to relieve the discomfort and ensure the most pleasant recovery possible. Recovery from abdominoplasty is similar to that of a C-section or hysterectomy for those who have had these types of procedures.

Although patients are able to move, the first week after abdominoplasty is generally limited to bed-rest, with knees bent and back elevated. It generally takes two to three weeks before patients can do more strenuous activity. Exercise can usually resume between four to six weeks after the abdominoplasty. The patient will continue to wear an abdominal binder for two to four weeks following the surgery.

Recovery and healing after abdominoplasty varies from patient to patient, depending on the extent of surgery. Complete healing takes time and patience, taking up to twelve months.

Tummy Tuck Complications

An abdominoplasty procedure i Miami is a popular and common procedure. As with most cosmetic surgical procedures, complications are unlikely when performed by a skilled and competent surgeon.

At our Miami Cosmetic Surgery Center, abdominoplasty patients use Venodyne® calf compression devices following surgery. These pressure cuffs fit over each lower leg from the ankle to the knee circulating every one to two minutes to reduce the pooling of blood in the lower extremities, further reducing the possibility of blood clots or emboli. Abdominoplasty also requires smokers to stop smoking long before the procedure to increase blood circulation in the skin and promote proper healing.

Contact Dr. G for a Tummy Tuck in Miami

Prospective tummy tuck patients are encouraged to speak with previous patients about their surgery and results. Dr. Gershenbaum and his staff are always available for questions about abdominoplasty at our Miami, Florida center. Please contact our Miami cosmetic surgery center to schedule an appointment today!

View Tummy Tuck photo Gallery

Abdominoplasty Surgery in Miami, Florida

Every abdominoplasty performed at our Miami, Florida cosmetic surgery center is performed with the utmost care and latest techniques. Abdominoplasty generally takes between two and three, hours plus additional time for liposculpture, if performed. The line of incision and areas for liposculpture are outlined. After speaking with the anesthetist or anesthesiologist, the patient is brought to the operating room. Once asleep, medication is administered to reduce bleeding.

Abdominoplasty always results in a transverse scar across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. The exact location of the incision will depend upon several factors, which include the “bikini” line (French cut or high waist vs. the traditional cut), as well as each person’s requirements.

Before & After

Abdominoplasty also results in a scar around the belly button (umbilicus), as this is made free to allow removal of the excess and loose skin. During the procedure, skin and fat are separated from the abdominal wall, by a transverse incision across the lower abdomen to the lower portion of the rib cage. The underlying abdominal wall and muscles are tightened with sutures (stitches), which provide a firmer and flatter abdominal wall, as well as a narrower waistline. The elevated skin is then lowered and the excess removed. The belly button (umbilicus) is then repositioned to its normal location.

Tummy Tuck Miami

An abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. In the majority of cases, separated or weakened muscles can be restored to create a smoother, firmer abdominal profile. Dr. Sam Gershenbaum is a board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Miami, FL. who frequently performs tummy tucks for individuals who want a flatter, firmer looking abdomen.

Reasons People in Miami Choose to Have a Tummy Tuck

The abdomen is a troublesome area for countless individuals. For many, it seems that no matter how dedicated they are to working out and watching their diet, their abdomen continues to protrude and sag. Even people who are of normal body weight and proportion can experience a protruding, loose abdomen.

Issues that Affect the Appearance and Tone of the Abdomen

Common causes of a protruding and loose abdomen include:

Genetics
Prior abdominal surgery
Aging
Pregnancy
Weight fluctuations

The Limitations of a Tummy Tuck

An abdominoplasty should not be considered a substitute for eating healthy, following an appropriate exercise regimen or as a substitute for weight loss. A tummy tuck cannot specifically address stretch marks. However, stretch marks located on the skin that Dr. Gershenbaum trims away during the tummy tuck procedure will be removed as well. While the results achieved with a tummy tuck are permanent, a positive outcome can be affected by substantial fluctuations in an individual’s weight. Therefore, individuals planning to lose a significant amount of weight or women who are considering a future pregnancy should wait to have a tummy tuck with Dr. Gershenbaum in Miami.

Ideal Candidates for a Tummy Tuck

An abdominoplasty is a highly personalized surgery; therefore, an individual should choose to have a tummy tuck for himself/herself, not as a way to fulfill another person’s desires or to fit a particular image.

Individuals interested in a tummy tuck should:

Be unhappy with the way their abdomen looks
Be physically healthy
Have realistic expectations as to what an abdominoplasty can accomplish
Maintain a stable weight
Be a non-smoker

A Tummy Tuck Consultation with Dr. Gershenbaum in Miami

When patients arrive for their initial consultation, they need to be prepared to discuss their medical history with Dr. Gershenbaum.

Medical information Dr. Gershenbaum will ask about includes:

Medical treatments
Medical conditions (i.e., high blood pressure, diabetes)
Previous surgical procedures (i.e., abdominal surgeries)

Dr. Gershenbaum will want to know the patient’s:

Surgical goals
Current medications, herbal supplements and vitamins
Drug allergies
Recreational drug use, alcohol consumption and tobacco use

Every question that Dr. Gershenbaum and his staff asks is geared toward ensuring the safety of the patient: Therefore, patients need to be truthful concerning their daily life and habits.

During a tummy tuck consultation, Dr. Gershenbaum will also:

Take pictures to place in the patient’s file. He may use these photos as reference while creating the patient’s abdominoplasty surgical plan. These pictures may also be used for comparison purposes following the tummy tuck.
Evaluate the patient’s general health.
Discuss any pre-existing health issues or risk factors.
Make recommendations as to which procedures he believes will provide the patient with the results he or she wants.
Discuss potential outcomes of a tummy tuck as well as potential complications and risks.

Prior to having any type of surgical procedure, patients should understand all aspects of the procedure itself and what to expect as he or she recovers. Feeling some anxiety is absolutely normal. Patients should not be shy about asking questions related to their tummy tuck and recovery. Dr. Gershenbaum encourages his patients to ask questions during their tummy tuck consultation at his office in Miami.

Preparing for an Abdominoplasty in Miami

Smoking inhibits the body’s ability to heal itself; therefore, continuing to use tobacco can lead to complications. Therefore, patients who smoke should avoid smoking for at least two weeks before their abdominoplasty. In addition, patients will need to refrain from smoking for at least two weeks after their tummy tuck with Dr. Gershenbaum in Miami.

Patients should not try to lose a substantial amount of weight prior to their abdominoplasty because eating a well-balanced diet prior to surgery can help the body heal quicker.

Certain medications need to be avoided prior to and for a short time after surgery. These medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and aspirin.

During their recovery, patients will need several things, including:

Petroleum jelly (Vaseline)
Ice packs
A hand-held shower head
A shower chair
Loose clothing that is easy to put on and take off

A tummy tuck with Dr. Gershenbaum in Miami is an outpatient procedure. During surgery, patients receive anesthesia, therefore, they are not permitted to drive themselves home. On the day of their procedure, patients are required to arrive with their driver. Furthermore, patients who live alone should have someone they trust stay with them for at least the first night following their tummy tuck procedure.

Types of Abdominoplasties Available in Miami

The steps of the procedure depend on the type of abdominoplasty a patient is having. Dr. Gershenbaum performs partial and complete abdominoplasties for his patients in Miami.

A partial (mini) abdominoplasty is often ideal for individuals who have fat deposits located beneath the navel. During this procedure, Dr. Gershenbaum usually does not need to move the navel, this procedure usually takes approximately two hours.

A complete abdominoplasty is perfect for individuals who have fat deposits above and below the navel. During this procedure, Dr. Gershenbaum will make an incision from hip to hip. He will contour the tissue, muscle and skin as needed. This surgery typically involves moving the navel. Furthermore, individuals may require drainage tubes for several days. These tubes are used to drain excess fluid and blood from the abdomen to reduce inflammation.

Liposculpture and a Tummy Tuck in Miami

To provide his patients with the best results possible, Dr. Gershenbaum frequently combines abdominoplasty procedures with Liposculpture. Patients who choose to have a combination tummy tuck and Liposculpture procedure will need to have several additional incisions. However, these additional incisions are quite small and are only used as a means to insert the thin tube that is necessary to remove the subcutaneous fat targeted during the liposuction procedure.

The Abdominoplasty Procedure – An Overview

A partial abdominoplasty usually takes about two hours; a full abdominoplasty can take up to five hours to complete.

1. Anesthesia

Patients receive anesthesia so they remain comfortable throughout their tummy tuck. Choices include general anesthesia and intravenous sedation. Dr. Gershenbaum recommends the type of anesthesia he believes will serve the patient better.

2. Dr. Gershenbaum Makes the Incision

A complete tummy tuck requires that Dr. Gershenbaum create a horizontal incision just above the pubic bone. The actual length and shape of the incision is determined by how much excess skin Dr. Gershenbaum will need to trim away.

3. Addressing the Abdominal Wall

The fat and skin are gently separated from the abdominal wall. Then, the underlying abdominal wall muscles are tightened using sutures. Thus, providing the patient with a flatter and firmer abdominal wall as well as an improved waistline.

4. The Upper Abdomen

To remove excess skin in the patient’s upper abdomen, Dr. Gershenbaum may need to make a second incision around his or her navel.

5. Trimming the Excess Skin

Once the abdominal wall muscles are tightened, the upper abdominal skin is gently pulled down and the excess skin is trimmed away.

6. Closing the Incisions

Before Dr. Gershenbaum closes the abdominoplasty incision, he administers a long-acting anesthetic to reduce the patient’s post-operative discomfort. The remaining skin is brought together with sutures. The sutures used to close the abdominoplasty incision are placed predominantly below the skin. This suture placement avoids cross-hatching and suture marks.

7. A Light Dressing is Applied

Following an abdominoplasty, a light dressing is applied to the incisions.

8. An Elastic Binder is Applied

To minimize swelling and provide support for the abdomen as it heals, patients receive an elastic binder.

When Necessary, Dr. Gershenbaum Performs These Additional Steps:

Creating the Navel

If necessary, Dr. Gershenbaum creates a new opening for the navel and the underlying belly button is brought to the surface and then sutured into the proper position.

Closing the Navel Incisions

Skin adhesives, sutures, clips and/or surgical tape may be used to close the navel incisions.

Drainage Tubes May Be Placed

Dr. Gershenbaum may place small, thin tubes (cannulas) beneath the skin. These tubes are used to drain off excess fluid or blood; thus, reducing inflammation. These tubes usually only remain in place for a few days following a tummy tuck in Miami.

Recovery

Patients will remain in recovery for some time following their tummy tuck procedure. Once Dr. Gershenbaum is satisfied with the patient’s recovery status, he or she will be released to the driver.

Heading Home

Patients receive specific instructions related to:

Caring for their incisions and drainage tubes
Medications to take orally or apply to the incisions to aid in healing and reduce the risk of infection
Their follow up appointment with Dr. Gershenbaum
Specific symptoms that indicate the patient should seek medical attention
The surgical incisions should not be subjected to excessive force or motion as they heal.

The Results

The success of a patient’s surgery relies greatly on how well he or she follows Dr. Gershenbaum’s post-surgical instructions.

The majority of patients notice that their abdomen has a flatter, firmer contour at their first bandage change.

At-Home Recovery

Patients should expect to experience some inflammation, pain, bruising, a numb sensation and fatigue in the days directly following their abdominoplasty. Dr. Gershenbaum will provide pain medications and tips about the best way to handle the pain associated with a tummy tuck.

For the first week following a tummy tuck, patients are usually limited to bed-rest. Patients should lie with their back elevated and knees bent.
Patients can usually stand normally within a week or two of their abdominoplasty.
After two to three weeks, patients will usually progress to more strenuous activities.
Approximately six weeks following an abdominoplasty patients can usually resume their exercise routine.
Patients will be sore for several weeks or months following their abdominoplasty.
Each patient is unique, therefore, full recovery times vary: It can take up to 12 months for a patient to completely recover.
Patients will need to wear the elastic binder they received on the day of their procedure from two to four weeks following their surgery.

Scarring

Women who have already had abdominal surgery for a cesarean section or hysterectomy will have a scar on their abdomen; Dr. Gershenbaum can incorporate their existing scars into the tummy tuck scar. The scar that remains from an abdominoplasty can take from a few months to a year to fade and reach optimal improvement.

Potential Complications

Although rare, as with any surgical procedure, there is the possibility of infection, blood clots or bleeding under the skin. Individuals who have poor circulation due to diabetes, or liver, heart, or lung disease are more likely to have these kinds of complications following their abdominoplasty.

To reduce the likelihood of issues related to blood clots, directly following an abdominoplasty, pressure cuffs are placed over the patients’ calves. By providing patients with Venodyne® calf compression devices following surgery, the likelihood of blood pooling in the lower extremities is greatly reduced.

Individuals who are interested in learning more about the cosmetic, plastic and reconstructive surgery procedures available at Dr. G Cosmetic Surgery in Miami, please contact our office today. We look forward to helping you achieve your aesthetic goals.