I just had a consult with a surgeon for a tummy tuck. I had twins 2.5 years ago and my stomach is obviously not the same as before pregnancy. I've been asked "when am I due" well after the babies were born. I was disappointed to hear today that because I don't have loose skin I'm not a candidate for surgery. I believe I really could benefit from muscle repair. Am I wrong?
February 20, 2023
Answer: Abdominal wall rejuvenation Great questions. With any pregnancy, especially twins, there will be some abdominal wall changes. My consultations begin with a detailed physical examination to determine which part(s) of the abdominal wall and abdominal contents are responsible for the appearance. To be sure, based on your photos, the challenge is to address the abdominal wall but with no real need to address abdominal skin. How that is done depends on the findings on exam and possibly even a CT scan of the abdomen to assess the abdominal wall. Once the anatomy is clear, there are likely options including liposuction, mini-abdominoplasty, abdominoplasty with umbilical transposition, endoscopic approaches and any combination of those. You will find different approaches from various surgeons and additional consultations are in order. Hope this helps.
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February 20, 2023
Answer: Abdominal wall rejuvenation Great questions. With any pregnancy, especially twins, there will be some abdominal wall changes. My consultations begin with a detailed physical examination to determine which part(s) of the abdominal wall and abdominal contents are responsible for the appearance. To be sure, based on your photos, the challenge is to address the abdominal wall but with no real need to address abdominal skin. How that is done depends on the findings on exam and possibly even a CT scan of the abdomen to assess the abdominal wall. Once the anatomy is clear, there are likely options including liposuction, mini-abdominoplasty, abdominoplasty with umbilical transposition, endoscopic approaches and any combination of those. You will find different approaches from various surgeons and additional consultations are in order. Hope this helps.
Helpful
February 18, 2023
Answer: Tummy Tuck Thank you for your questions and photos. You are not wrong. A tummy tuck will address excess skin & repair of the abdominal muscle. From your photos, tough you do not appear to have a lot of extra skin, you would benefit greatly from muscle repair. Which then would allows the surgeon to address extra skin. The abdominal wall can be weakened after pregnancy and (or) significant weight gain & loss. By repairing the muscle, not only does the appearance of your abdominal area improve, but your core strength as well. The repair of the muscle will cinch your waist like an inner corset, which will accentuate your curves. Liposuction will remove excess fat from unwanted areas with some skin retraction. Your expectations and health will dictate the best procedure(s) for you. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals. Best of luck! Dhaval Patel MD Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Chicago South Barrington Oakbrook Orland Park
Helpful
February 18, 2023
Answer: Tummy Tuck Thank you for your questions and photos. You are not wrong. A tummy tuck will address excess skin & repair of the abdominal muscle. From your photos, tough you do not appear to have a lot of extra skin, you would benefit greatly from muscle repair. Which then would allows the surgeon to address extra skin. The abdominal wall can be weakened after pregnancy and (or) significant weight gain & loss. By repairing the muscle, not only does the appearance of your abdominal area improve, but your core strength as well. The repair of the muscle will cinch your waist like an inner corset, which will accentuate your curves. Liposuction will remove excess fat from unwanted areas with some skin retraction. Your expectations and health will dictate the best procedure(s) for you. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals. Best of luck! Dhaval Patel MD Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Chicago South Barrington Oakbrook Orland Park
Helpful