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Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a renowned option for patients who wish to improve their self-confidence by achieving a firmer, more sculpted midsection. This procedure is an option that is particularly suited to patients who have excess skin due to losing a significant amount of weight or due to pregnancy. In consultation with Dr. Aya-ay, patients can determine whether abdominoplasty is the procedure best suited to their needs.
What is Abdominoplasty?
A patient who has excess skin and subcutaneous tissue in the abdominal area may be a candidate for an abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck. At times, even with diet and exercise, you may be unable to tighten or tone the abdomen. This is especially true if you have had massive weight loss or have been pregnant. In the majority of these cases, the skin has stretched and lost elasticity, making it impossible to achieve the abdominal contour desired.
During your consultation, Dr. Aya-ay will evaluate the degree and location of skin laxity, determine localized areas of adiposity, and measure the degree of muscle separation, or rectus diastasis. You will discuss your perceived problem areas, and formulate the best surgical plan to achieve your desired results. Various techniques can be utilized to customize your surgical plan for your specific body type. Some of these surgical techniques include the mini-tummy tuck, sliding umbilicoplasty, full abdominoplasty, abdominoplasty with liposuction (known as lipoabdominoplasty), vertical abdominoplasty, or circumferential abdominoplasty (also known as lower body lift).
Melanie L. Aya-ay, M.D.
BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
Dr. Melanie Aya-ay is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Tampa Bay with over 15 years of plastic surgery experience specializing in cosmetic surgery, reconstructive breast surgery and minimally invasive techniques for facial and body rejuvenation. She is known for her skill and excellence in revision surgery, specifically for difficult breast surgery revisions. Dr. Aya-ay is an Allergan Medical Institute (AMI) National Trainer for Facial Aesthetics and AMI National Speaker for Plastic and Regenerative Medicine. She is honored to be the first female surgeon to hold this dual faculty position with Allergan.
Dr. Aya-ay is the CEO and owner of Melanie L. Aya-ay, MD Plastic Surgery as well as Vivia MedSpa, an elite luxury medical spa in North Tampa. Her practice and her team have been built on the values of honesty, integrity, education, safety, and providing comprehensive aesthetic care with natural results. Your consultation with Dr. Aya-ay will be an educational experience so that you can be assured that you are making the choices that are best for you. Our staff will provide all the assistance needed to help you navigate through the process for a successful Plastic Surgery experience.
Abdominoplasty Procedure
The majority of tummy tuck procedures can be performed at a surgery center or hospital as an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient will be able to return home the day of the procedure. In most situations, general anesthesia is used. In a standard abdominoplasty procedure, incisions are made in the lower abdomen and around the umbilicus. In a vertical abdominoplasty, a vertical incision is added. In a circumferential abdominoplasty, an incision all the way around the abdomen and back in a belt like fashion is used. The latter procedures are typically performed on patients with massive weight loss and significant skin laxity.
During the surgery, excess skin and fat are removed and the muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened in a corset-like fashion. Liposuction is commonly performed for shaping. The skin is then reshaped over the abdomen resulting in an improved abdominal contour. Extra attention is always place on umbilical shaping to help provide the most natural umbilical contour possible. Dr. Aya-ay feels like the umbilical contour is one of the most important parts of the tummy tuck as it can help to create a more natural appearing abdomen.
Beautiful, Natural, Results.
BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
Abdominoplasty Recovery and Aftercare
There will be a period of time following the surgery during which there will be restrictions on activity and work. The time period and restrictions vary based on the surgical procedures chosen. Pain medication, a muscle relaxant, and nausea medication are prescribed as needed for patient comfort. Antibiotics may also be given.
Patients can expect to leave the procedure with a surgical dressing covering their abdomen, as well as small drainage tubes placed in order to prevent the buildup of fluid during the recovery process. Patients can expect to experience limited mobility during the days immediately following the procedure. Dr. Aya-ay and her staff will review the postoperative instructions with you at your consultation and again at your preoperative visit to ensure that you are comfortable with your postoperative care.
Schedule a Consultation
To learn more about abdominoplasty or other potential options, schedule a consultation appointment with Dr. Aya-ay. A consultation is a chance to collaborate to decide what procedure or treatment would be best suited for you and your needs. To schedule your consultation appointment, contact our Tampa office.
