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    (281) 940-1535 Appointment

    Tummy Tuck in Houston, TX

    ENHANCE THE ABDOMINAL CONTOURS

    Abdominoplasty is our transformational Houston tummy tuck procedure at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery. With a tummy tuck, we enhance the abdominal contours and remove excess skin. We shape the midsection by drawing the muscles taut and frequently employ liposuction for the finishing touches. Your body’s contours can be sculpted to highlight your most appealing features. On the clinic's beloved blog, we do a deep dive on abdominoplasty and our other cosmetic surgery procedures to sculpt your silhouette.

    TIGHTEN YOUR CONTOURS WITH ABDOMINOPLASTY

    A highly customizable cosmetic surgery procedure, your tummy tuck will be completely tailored to meet your unique needs and cosmetic objectives. The most common type of tummy tuck Houston plastic surgeon Dr. Sukkar performs is called the traditional tummy tuck.

    Performed under general anesthesia, it involves the largest incisions, which extend from hip-to-hip and involve a detour around the belly button. The traditional tummy tuck produces the most dramatic results. The tummy tuck allows us to remove unwanted fat and excess skin from the entire abdomen. It also gives him the opportunity to tighten and firm the underlying muscles. Because it's an involved procedure, the traditional tummy tuck is ideal for patients who need to address a substantial amount of excess volume on both the upper and lower abdomen. Don't let sagging skin and excess fat around your midsection cause you to feel self-conscious about your body.

    Additional Reading

    Dr. Sukkar and his team of doctors are some of the best plastic surgeons in Houston. We will eliminate excess abdominal volume and sculpt your belly to give you a flat and firm stomach area you'll be proud to show off. Contact The Clinic for Plastic Surgery to schedule your confidential consultation. Your consultation will be the first step on your journey of transformation. So, call us at (281) 940-1535 and let's get the conversation started. We also offer Virtual Consultations for patients who prefer to conduct their business remotely.

    Houston tummy tuck patient model kneeling on her knees in a black bikini bottom and black shirt

    Can I combine a Tummy Tuck with other aesthetic procedures?

    While a tummy tuck yields a beautiful outcome on its own, it can be safely combined with other body contouring procedures. The most popular combination is a tummy tuck and liposuction, medically known as lipo-abdominoplasty. Together, they provide a flatter, sculpted tummy with tighter skin and fewer fat bulges in one operation. Tummy tucks also pair well with cosmetic breastwork. Known as a mommy makeover, this procedure may include abdominoplasty, a breast lift, or breast augmentation performed simultaneously. Finally, post-weight loss patients with extreme skin laxity may benefit from a tummy tuck combined with an arm lift, thigh lift, or gynecomastia surgery.

    Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?

    Many patients wonder if they need a tummy tuck, liposuction, or both. Tummy tuck and liposuction are both body contouring surgeries, but it is unfair to compare them because they serve different purposes. A tummy tuck removes saggy skin and liposuction treats excess fat pockets. If your singular concern is lax skin, you may only need a tummy tuck. If you have a stubborn fat roll that won’t go away with diet and exercise, liposuction may be the right choice. The good news is tummy tucks and liposuction can be safely combined for patients needing both. Both procedures may play a role in a patient’s comprehensive body contouring plan. Frequently, liposuction is performed during a tummy tuck for optimal results.

    BENEFITS

    Even the abbreviated versions of abdominoplasty don't negate the fact that it is an extensive surgery capable of life-changing transformations.

    A full tummy tuck can provide life-changing benefits such as:

    • Removal of excess skin and fat
    • Improved posture and core strength
    • Tighter, smoother, firmer-looking skin
    • Visible improvement of C-section scars
    • An overall toned and youthful appearance
    • Fewer stretch marks on the lower abdomen
    • An easier time shopping for clothes that fit well

    Many tummy tuck patients have already been through a transcendent ordeal, like multiple pregnancies or massive weight loss of 100 lbs or more. For these patients, a tummy tuck can be transformative. A tummy tuck will tighten your midsection, including overstretched and damaged muscle tissue, if need be. Tighter stomach muscles can improve an individual's posture because a taut abdomen better supports the spine. Trading saggy skin for a more toned, sculpted abdomen can also boost a person’s confidence and make it easier to fit in clothing and swimwear.

    Houston Tummy Tuck patient model leaning against wall in white swimsuit

    QUALIFIED CANDIDATES

    A tummy tuck will enhance your body’s symmetry while reshaping the contours of your life, but the procedure is not for everybody.

    Qualified candidates for body sculpting surgery are men and women with loose abdominal skin and muscles due to massive weight loss or pregnancy. Tummy tuck patients should be in good health, close to their ideal body weight and have realistic expectations of the surgery. If you would like to find out if you'd be a good candidate for our tummy tuck Houston plastic surgeon, Dr. Sam Sukkar, can address that and any other questions you have during your initial consultation. Call us today!

    A tummy tuck may be an option if you:

    • Do not smoke
    • Do not have major medical issues
    • Are at or close to your ideal weight
    • Are willing to live with a permanent surgical scar
    • Are dedicated to maintaining your results with diet and exercise
    • Have loose skin on your abdomen after pregnancy or weight loss
    • Have unwanted flab even after whittling down to a healthy weight
    • Are not pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to have more children
    • Have reasonable expectations and understand that all surgery has risks

    YOUR CONFIDENTIAL CONSULTATIONAT THE CLINIC FOR PLASTIC SURGERY

    Dr. Sam Sukkar is our proud Founder and distinguished Medical Director at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery.

    If you’re ready to explore your tummy tuck options, we invite you to schedule a consultation in our Houston office. During your private meeting, Dr. Sukkar will carefully assess your medical history and aesthetic aspirations. We invite you to ask questions so that you're fully informed on your range of options. Together, with Dr. Sukkar and the talented medical professionals on our staff, you will collaborate in creating your tailor-made treatment plan.

    Dreams come true in Houston, Texas, at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery. Contact the office to take the first step toward making your vision a reality. Before your appointment, feel free to peruse our patient resources to properly prepare yourself. For a glimpse a little further over the horizon, read our rave reviews to see our pleased patients leave their 5-star feedback. It all begins when you call (281) 940-1535 and schedule a consultation. If you prefer, we also conduct Virtual Consultations with new patients remotely.

    PREPARATION
    &PROCEDURE

    The Clinic for Plastic Surgery's preparation plans will be personalized to your procedure. It is important that you do your part and execute our instructions with fidelity. If everything goes as it should, you will rendezvous with the doctor on your surgery day in our AAAASF certified operating room at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery. By then, the anesthetics will have adequately taken effect.

    DO I NEED TO LOSE WEIGHT BEFORE SURGERY?

    We do not recommend that you dive into an ill-advised crash diet or otherwise engage in some other form of rapid weight loss before seeking a tummy tuck procedure. Part of the qualifying conditions for abdominoplasty is a healthy and stable weight.

    "Stable" is key because Dr. Sukkar and his team are usually more concerned with how much your total weight has changed in the last year. Obesity may bar some individuals from getting a tummy tuck, but so can dramatic fluctuations in one's weight. It's best to commit to a healthy lifestyle for the long term, both before and after your procedure. Then, you will be in the best possible shape for your tummy tuck.

    Additional Reading

    For a tummy tuck, plastic surgeon Dr. Sam Sukkar typically begins with a horizontal incision across the hips. He will use this and subsequent incisions to separate your loose skin from the rest of your frame. A tummy tuck involves trimming away lax and saggy skin at the belly. Dr. Sukkar may also repair the underlying muscles with sutures. During the same procedure, we often perform Liposuction in adjacent areas to provide a slimmer body shape. We then close the incisions using stitches, skin adhesives or clips. The procedure takes about three hours, total. Temporary drains may also be placed to collect fluid after surgery. Your midsection will be wrapped in gauze and an elastic bandage to aid the healing process.

    Houston tummy tuck patient model in white underwear showing toned midriff

    Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Choosing the Right Procedure

    While both tummy tuck and liposuction are body contouring procedures, they address different issues. A tummy tuck is ideal for patients needing to remove loose skin and repair abdominal muscles, often after weight loss or pregnancy. Liposuction, on the other hand, focuses solely on removing stubborn fat pockets without addressing excess skin or muscle separation. Patients looking for a comprehensive result often combine both procedures, known as a lipo-abdominoplasty, to achieve a flatter, more sculpted midsection.

    Full Tummy Tuck vs. Mini Tummy Tuck

    A mini tummy tuck is a limited procedure designed for patients with excess skin below the navel only.

    It is a good option for women with a small tummy pooch after giving birth. It generally does not include muscle repair as a full tummy tuck would. The scar is usually shorter, and the procedure less invasive, shortening the recovery time. However, the results of a mini tummy tuck are less dramatic. If you have abdominal muscle separation or lax skin on both your upper and lower abdomen, a full tummy tuck is likely what you will need.

    MINI TUMMY TUCK

    In some cases, our medical team may advise you that a mini tummy tuck is in your best interests. This is an easier, shorter and less intensive variation on traditional abdominoplasty. It's perfect for patients who suffer from only a very small amount of loose and excess skin. A mini tummy tuck does not involve any repair of the underlying abdominal muscles. Performed under IV sedation and local anesthesia, the surgery involves a small incision just above the pubic area. Once healed, your tummy tuck scar will be very minimal and easy to conceal with clothing, bathing suits or underwear. Through that opening, we can restore your lower abdomen, removing unwanted volume, tightening lax skin and revealing an improved body contour.

    RECOVERY
    & RESULTS

    Excisional body contouring techniques like tummy tuck are the only sure way to get rid of severely loose skin.

    Non-surgical MedSpa procedures may produce stunning outcomes in less advanced cases of laxity, but none of them approach abdominoplasty's power to transform the shape of your body in a comprehensive and long-lasting way. Hence, recovery from a full tummy tuck can be challenging.

    You should plan to take two weeks away from work and driving. However, a full recovery from a tummy tuck can take approximately two months. During this time, you’ll need to take it easy and avoid strenuous activity, including heavy lifting and intensive workouts. Make sure a trusted friend or beloved family member is available to provide you with some physical and emotional support until you are able to care for yourself.

    Weeks One and Two: Swelling, Bruising, and Soreness

    Most patients leave the surgical center the same day. Others may require an overnight stay. Immediately after your tummy tuck, you will experience discomfort, bruising, and swelling. These temporary side effects will taper off over the coming weeks to months. You may also have drains placed in your abdomen to drain excess fluid. Your surgeon will have you come back to the office to have the drains removed a day or two after your surgery. It is usually safe to shower a day or two after the operation.

    Your surgeon may direct you to wear a compression garment. You’ll likely need to wear it for several weeks to tame swelling and help your skin contract around your new abdominal contours. In the earliest stage of your recovery, you may be more comfortable sleeping with your head and knees elevated to minimize tension on the scar.

    Weeks Three to Six: Starting to Feel Better

    By the time you are three weeks into your recovery, you are back to work, driving, and light daily activities. Swelling is still prominent but is starting to diminish. Bruising has faded, and the surgical scar has healed over nicely. You may still have discomfort and aching in your abdomen, but it is less sharp than it was previously. You may experience numbness and shooting pains as the nerves heal; This is normal. You can gradually increase your activity level day-by-day, but continue to avoid physical exertion and unnecessary bending or lifting.

    Months Two to Three: Getting Back to Life as Usual

    As the swelling continues to subside, your abdomen should appear more flat, toned, and natural in appearance. Sensation begins to return as any lingering numbness resolves. Most patients are beginning to enjoy an early preview of their results and feel comfortable returning to all their usual activities, including jogging and going to the gym.

    Six Months to a Year: Final Tummy Tuck Results Emerge

    Most patients see significant improvements at six months; However, it can take up to a year to see the final outcome of your surgery. Your abdomen should appear trim, toned, and beautifully defined with all the excess skin gone. The surgical scar has also begun to soften, flatten, and lighten in color. It can take 12 months or longer for the scar to mature and blend in with the surrounding skin.

    Maintaining Your Tummy Tuck Results

    In general, the results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting. To prolong your results, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid gaining weight, as this can cause the skin and muscles to stretch again. Be sure to talk to your surgeon about maintaining your results so you can enjoy them for years to come.

    Tummy Tuck Scars

    Patients considering a tummy tuck must be made aware that the surgery leaves a scar that is permanent. Our surgeons understand that part of a great tummy tuck result is a good-looking scar. They make an effort to position the scar discreetly. Most clothing and swimsuit styles conceal the scar, but it will be visible when undressed. Most patients find the scar fades to a fine line at approximately 12 months post-op, although your age and individual differences in healing may cause the scar to mature faster or slower. Your surgeon may advise applying topical scar gel or silicone strips to keep the scar moisturized, so it heals well and ultimately blends in with the surrounding skin.

    Houston tummy tuck model in white track suit

    MINI TUMMY TUCK RECOVERY

    If you had a mini tummy tuck performed, you can look forward to a slightly less extensive recovery period. Most of our Houston patients are able to resume light daily activities within two days, with a full return to work at ten days. However, you should continue to avoid strenuous exercise for at least four weeks to ensure an optimal healing process.

    HOW MUCH DOES ABDOMINOPLASTY COST IN HOUSTON?

    At The Clinic for Plastic Surgery, our customized aesthetic treatments are tailored to the needs of the individual patient.

    Nationally, the average tummy tuck cost is $8,400. The final amount can vary widely based on your surgeon’s experience, geographic location, and the type of tummy tuck you need, among other factors. Most patients pay out of pocket since insurance rarely covers tummy tuck surgery. The scope and sequence of your body contouring will be determined at your confidential consultation. The cost of a tummy tuck can be intimidating for some, but 97% of patients say they felt the price was worth it. Many of these same patients found our financing options useful as they formulated a financial strategy that best suits their situation.

    SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

    If you're ready to explore your tummy tuck options, we invite you to schedule a consultation at The Clinic for Plastic Surgery today. During your private meeting in our Houston plastic surgery office, we will carefully assess the cosmetic imperfections you'd most like to address, before creating a custom treatment plan designed to sculpt the exquisite appearance you deserve.

    Houston Plastic Surgeon Dr. Sam Sukkar

    Tummy TuckFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    WILL MY INSURANCE COVER A TUMMY TUCK?

    There's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as insurance coverage for tummy tucks can vary depending on your insurance provider and policy. However, most insurance plans generally will not cover cosmetic procedures like tummy tucks. So, if you're considering a tummy tuck, check with your insurance provider to find out if your procedure would be covered.

    COMBINING PROCEDURES FOR A COMPLETE TRANSFORMATION

    Combining a tummy tuck with other procedures can be highly effective for patients with multiple areas of concern. The most popular combination is a mommy makeover, which typically includes a tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast enhancement to restore a pre-pregnancy figure. For those with significant weight loss, combining a tummy tuck with an arm or thigh lift can create a balanced, toned appearance. Our team will discuss options tailored to your unique goals during your consultation.

    WILL I HAVE SURGICAL DRAINS AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

    You will most likely have drains applied to your abdomen for the first day or two after your procedure. Your surgeon will remove them during your first follow-up appointment.

    WILL I HAVE TO MODIFY HOW I SLEEP FOLLOWING A TUMMY TUCK?

    You may have to sleep on your back or side for a few weeks following your tummy tuck surgery. This is to help ensure that your incisions heal properly. You may also need to use pillows to prop up your head and torso. Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions to ensure a successful recovery.

    WHAT HAPPENS IF I GAIN A LOT OF WEIGHT AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

    A tummy tuck won’t prevent weight gain. If you do gain a significant amount of weight and then lose it, you may develop skin laxity again. To ensure a long-lasting result, stick to a balanced diet and exercise regime.

    WHAT BMI DO YOU NEED TO BE AT FOR A TUMMY TUCK?

    The ideal BMI for a tummy tuck is 30 or less. Patients above this threshold may be considered for the procedure if they are healthy and meet other requirements.

    CAN I GET PREGNANT FOLLOWING A TUMMY TUCK?

    Having abdominoplasty does not prevent you from being able to become pregnant. If you do become pregnant following a tummy tuck surgery, it will cause the skin and muscles of the abdomen to stretch again, which may negate the effects of your previous surgery. Therefore, if you plan to get pregnant, it's best to wait until after you've had your baby before considering a tummy tuck. This will give you the best chance of achieving the results you desire.

    CAN YOU GET A TUMMY TUCK AFTER A C-SECTION?

    Many women that give birth via cesarean section have a tummy tuck to refine the scar and address the lower tummy pooch that remains after pregnancy.

    HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO PAUSE EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

    You'll likely need to take it easy for the first few weeks following your tummy tuck surgery. This means avoiding any strenuous activity, including exercise and sexual activity. Be sure to listen to your body and take things slowly to prevent complications. Once you're feeling better, you can gradually resume your normal activities.

    HOW PAINFUL IS A TUMMY TUCK?

    The surgery is painless due to general anesthesia. Discomfort during the tummy tuck recovery can range from moderate to severe during the first few days. Your surgeon will prescribe medication to promote a more comfortable recovery. Your surgeon may also administer the Exparel shot during your tummy tuck. Exparel is a local anesthetic injection that provides continuous pain relief for up to five days.

    WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF A TUMMY TUCK?

    Like any surgery, there are some risks associated with a tummy tuck. These include bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia. There is also a risk of developing blood clots, which can be dangerous. Be sure to talk to your surgeon about the risks before surgery.

    HOW LONG WILL I HAVE TO PAUSE EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?

    You'll likely need to take it easy for the first few weeks following your tummy tuck surgery. This means avoiding any strenuous activity, including exercise and sexual activity. Be sure to listen to your body and take things slowly to prevent complications. Once you're feeling better, you can gradually resume your normal activities.

    WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF A TUMMY TUCK?

    Like any surgery, there are some risks associated with a tummy tuck. These include bleeding, infection, and reactions to anesthesia. There is also a risk of developing blood clots, which can be dangerous. Be sure to talk to your surgeon about the risks before surgery.

    WHAT IS THE RECOVERY TIME FOR A TUMMY TUCK?

    Most people take approximately two weeks to recover from a tummy tuck. You'll likely need to take it easy and avoid strenuous activity during this time. You may also experience some discomfort and swelling. Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions to ensure a successful recovery.

    HOW LONG WILL THE RESULTS OF A TUMMY TUCK LAST?

    In general, the results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting. However, it's essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid gaining weight, as this can cause the skin and muscles to stretch again. Be sure to talk to your surgeon about maintaining your results so you can enjoy them for years to come.

    WILL A TUMMY TUCK GET RID OF MY STRETCH MARKS?

    A tummy tuck can improve the appearance of stretch marks located on the lower abdomen. By removing excess skin, stretch marks below the belly button are often eliminated, while those outside this area may remain. This improvement varies by individual, and Dr. Sukkar will explain what results you can expect based on your skin type and surgery goals.

    REFERENCES

    1. Danilla, S. (2017). Rectus Abdominis Fat Transfer (RAFT) in Lipoabdominoplasty: A New Technique to Achieve Fitness Body Contour in Patients that Require Tummy Tuck. Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, 41(6), 1389–1399. doi: 10.1007/s00266-017-0909-9
    2. Najera, R. M., Asheld, W., Sayeed, S. M., & Glickman, L. T. (2011). Comparison of Seroma Formation following Abdominoplasty with or without Liposuction. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 127(1), 417–422. doi: 10.1097/prs.0b013e3181f95763
    3. Maria S. Altieri, Jie Yang, Jihye Park, David Novikov, Lijuan Kang, Konstantinos Spaniolas, Andrew Bates, Mark Talamini, Aurora Pryor. Utilization of Body Contouring Procedures Following Weight Loss Surgery: A Study of 37,806 Patients. Obesity Surgery, 2017; DOI: 10.1007/s11695-017-2732-4
    4. Brito, M. J. A. D., Nahas, F. X., Bussolaro, R. A., Shinmyo, L. M., Barbosa, M. V. J., & Ferreira, L. M. (2012). Effects of Abdominoplasty on Female Sexuality: A Pilot Study. The Journal of Sexual Medicine, 9(3), 918–926. doi: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02583.x

    From the first time you walk into The Clinic for Plastic Surgery, you’ll know that you are in a place that cares about results. Under the leadership of Dr. Sukkar, The Clinic for Plastic Surgery has become Houston’s plastic surgery center of choice. Experience the difference for yourself by scheduling a consultation today.

    14018 Aesthetic Circle, Houston, TX 77062

    (281) 940-1535

    14018 Aesthetic Circle,
    Houston TX 77062

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    *THE CONTENT/IMAGES ON THIS WEBSITE ARE NOT A GUARANTEE OF INDIVIDUAL RESULTS. INDIVIDUAL RESULTS MAY VARY. THE INFORMATION PROVIDED ON THIS SITE IS FOR GENERAL INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND DOES NOT REPLACE THE NEED FOR A FORMAL CONSULTATION WITH A PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON BEFORE UNDERGOING A SURGICAL PROCEDURE OR SKINCARE TREATMENT. THE LOGOS LISTED ABOVE REFLECT DR. SUKKAR'S CERTIFICATIONS ONLY.