Munster Tummy Tuck doctors

Robert Frank, MD Robert Frank, MD
Munster Plastic Surgeon
929 Ridge Road Suite 6, Munster
25 answers
David A. Robinson, MD David A. Robinson, MD
Munster Plastic Surgeon
10110 Donald S. Powers Dr. Suite 201A, Munster
20 answers

Recent Answers

Opinions On No Drain Tummy Tuck?

I read more and more about people getting a "no drain tummy tuck" but I don't see comments from Doctors as to if this is recommended over the regular tummy tuck. Are there Doctors in Illinois that perform a "no drain tummy tuck"? Are there additional risks to this procedure? Is there an additional cost to this procedure?

A: It really depends on the tummy...

Hi Erin;

The question of drains is one that has been debated continuously for the 15 years I've been in practice. While there is still no definitive answer, I subscribe to the idea that patients should plan to have a drain and be thrilled if they wake up without one. Drains obviously help limit the amount of fluid that can accumulate under the skin. In addition, they act as an early indicator of abnormal bleeding. So do drains always eliminate potential problems. NO !!  Even more frustrating is that some patients develop postop seromas DESPITE having drains in place.

My take home for you is: While drains are inconvenient, they are a short term inconvenience and if your surgeon feels they are an important part of your recovery, don't look at it as a poor decision or something to negatively impact your longterm result. Good luck. Dr Frank

Robert Frank, MD
Munster Plastic Surgeon
What Are My Options? I'm A Fit, Thin Woman With Rectus Diastisis And Umbilical Hernia (photo)

I Am 5'4 1/2 " Tall, 108lbs.  I Have Had Two Children (5 and 1).  I Have a Full Rectus Diastisis from Sternum to Pubis with the widest part at the umbilicus (atleast 3 fingers width). The abdominal muscles are no longer flat. I have an epigastric and an umbilical hernai (according to a general surgeon). I also have some extra skin when I bend over. Which surgery is best for me?  How do I find a plastic surgeon in my area that has done the most abdominoplasties on fit, active, thin women with rectus diastisis and umbilical/ventral hernia and minimal extra skin after two pregnancies?

A: Respectfully disagree...

I'm not sure you do need a tummy tuck. You can have the diastasis repaired without skin excision and from your photos, I'm not sure you have much skin to excise. The type of repair of your rectus would really depend on the degree of laxity. If it were severe we might need to interpose a piece of allograft or xenograft and consider a component separation to mobilize healthy strong tissue to the midline.

Robert Frank, MD
Munster Plastic Surgeon
Will Abdominoplasty/panniculectomy Eliminate the Fullness at the Pubic Mound After Massive Weight Loss?

I am a post bariatric surgury patient. In August of 2008, I had Rouxen-Y Gastric Bypass. I have reached my goal weight with the loss of 150+ pounds. My abdominoplasty/Panniculectomy procedure is scheduled for November 2, 2011. My major concern is that above my pubic bone, the skin is saggy from weightloss as well. Will the removal of excess skin and fat smooth this area out? I am unable to have the complete lower body lift as the procedure is covered under my medical insurance.

A: Definitely bring it up

This issue is often not raised by patients as it sometimes isn't "seen" prior to removing an apron of skin. Some of these patients return with flat abdomens but unsightly bulges "down below." A quick conversation with your surgeon will avoid a lot of grief down the road.

Robert Frank, MD
Munster Plastic Surgeon
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