Tummy Tuck
in Baltimore, MD
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Emile Brown offers a variety of drainless tummy tuck options to patients in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Annapolis and the surrounding areas of Maryland. The abdominal area can be highly affected by age, pregnancy, or weight loss. When diet and exercise fail to give results, a tummy tuck can help!
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What is a Drainless Tummy Tuck?
A drainless tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure in which excess skin and fat are extracted from the abdomen. At the same time, the underlying abdominal muscles are also tightened. This produces a flatter, more toned stomach area. Traditionally, tummy tuck procedures required the placement of drainage tubes, which could be painful and cumbersome. However, Dr. Brown uses a more modern technique that does not require drains, known as the drainless tummy tuck.
Benefits of a Drainless Tummy Tuck
No matter how many crunches you do, it can be extremely difficult to obtain the six-pack you desire. A tummy tuck is often the only way to achieve a truly flat stomach or give definition to the midsection.
Concerns include:
- Stretched skin and tissue due to weight loss
- Loose skin due to pregnancy
- Sagging due to age or genetics
- Weakened abdominal muscles
- Abnormal belly button placement
Who is a Good Candidate for a Drainless Tummy Tuck?
You may desire a tummy tuck if you have excess, hanging skin after childbirth, or if you have tried unsuccessfully to tone your abdominals through exercise. The ideal candidate will be in good health and not planning any pregnancies in the near future. A tummy tuck is not an alternative to weight loss, so the patient should be in their ideal weight range before choosing to have the procedure. You might also choose a tummy tuck as part of a larger procedure like the body lift. A tummy tuck is also often combined with liposuction 360, or circumferential liposuction of the abdomen, back, and flanks. A tummy tuck in combination with lipo 360 treats the entire waist all the way around, and really gives you that hourglass look you desire!
How is a Drainless Tummy Tuck Performed?
Incisions are normally made across the lower abdominal area and are planned so that they will be hidden by underwear or a bathing suit bottom. Excess tissue can then be trimmed and tightened to create a smoother appearance. Liposuction of the lateral flanks and upper abdomen is often performed at the same time, in order to fully contour your entire midsection. Multiple deep, quilting-type sutures (known as progressive tension sutures) are also placed before closing the incision with dissolving sutures. These progressive tension sutures mean that drainage tubes are not necessary.
Recovery After a Drainless Tummy Tuck
After the drainless tummy tuck, patients can enjoy a smoother, easier recovery than the traditional tummy tuck without having to worry about drains in the way. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and general discomfort during the first week or two of recovery and should take this time off work to recover. Avoid movements that could strain the abdominal incisions like standing up quickly. You should also avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise that strains your core for six weeks, in order to allow the abdominal muscle repair to heal fully.
Your Consultation in Baltimore, MD
During your consultation at the Aesthetic Center at Woodholme, we will be glad to answer all of your questions, including those pertaining to specific techniques that might affect your cost. We will also help you determine the best method of payment based on your needs and budget. Many times, we are able to offer specials that help patients maximize their cosmetic procedure dollars. On other occasions, we may recommend financing through a major credit card or low-interest financing through CareCreditยฎ or Prosperยฎ Health Care Lending.
If you are anxious to look and feel your best, contact board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Emile Brown today to schedule your drainless tummy tuck consultation. We proudly serve patients from Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Annapolis and the surrounding areas of Maryland.