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Tone Your Tummy with Micallef Plastic Surgery

At Micallef Plastic Surgery, we understand that looking good is often an important aspect of feeling good. Led by Dr. Christopher J. Micallef, a double-board certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon with extensive experience, our practice is dedicated to providing a holistic approach to wellness and aesthetics. We believe that enhancing your physical appearance can lead to a profound boost in self-confidence and overall well-being.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and firm the abdominal area. It is often sought by individuals who have excess skin and fat in their abdominal region that doesn't respond to diet or exercise. During a tummy tuck in San Antonio, Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz removes this excess tissue, tightens the abdominal muscles if needed, and repositions the remaining skin to create a smoother, firmer, and more toned appearance. This procedure can provide dramatic results for those looking to achieve a flatter and more sculpted abdomen.

How are a Full Tummy Tuck and Mini Tummy Tuck Different?

  • A full tummy tuck, also known as a traditional one, is like a major overhaul for your belly. It involves a big incision from hip to hip, where excess skin and fat are removed, and the muscles are tightened. It's great for those with a lot of loose skin and fat in the belly area, often after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
  • On the other hand, a mini tummy tuck is like a touch-up for the lower belly. It's done with a smaller incision and targets just the lower part of the abdomen below the belly button. This is perfect for people with a bit of pouchiness in the lower belly but don't need a full-on surgery.

Full Tummy Tuck and Mini Tummy Tuck

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Is a Full Tummy Tuck or Mini Tummy Tuck best for me?

Dr. Micallef explains more about these procedures here. 

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Tummy Tuck Before & After

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The Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, offers a range of significant benefits for those seeking to transform their abdominal appearance and overall confidence. This procedure not only enhances your physical appearance but also provides several other advantages:

Improved Abdominal Contour

Say goodbye to excess skin and stubborn fat deposits that diet and exercise can't eliminate. A tummy tuck sculpts your abdominal area, resulting in a flatter, firmer, and more defined contour.

Enhanced Confidence

Achieving a toned and attractive abdominal appearance can boost your self-esteem and body confidence, allowing you to feel more comfortable and confident in various aspects of your life.

Muscle Tightening

For many patients, a tummy tuck includes muscle repair. This addresses muscle separation that may occur due to pregnancy or weight fluctuations, leading to a stronger core and improved posture.

Stretch Mark Improvement

While not a primary goal, a tummy tuck can reduce the appearance of stretch marks, particularly those located on the lower abdomen.

Clothing Freedom

Enjoy the freedom to wear clothing styles you may have avoided before due to concerns about your abdominal appearance.

Post-Pregnancy Restoration

For women who have experienced pregnancy, a tummy tuck can help restore the abdominal area, addressing the changes that often occur during childbirth.

Long-Lasting Results

With a healthy lifestyle, the results of a tummy tuck can be long-lasting, providing ongoing satisfaction and confidence.

Potential Health Benefits

Some individuals experience improved abdominal comfort and reduced back strain as a result of the procedure.

A tummy tuck is a transformative procedure that goes beyond aesthetics, offering physical, emotional, and psychological benefits. It's a step towards regaining the confidence and comfort you deserve in your own skin.

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Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?

An ideal candidate for a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is typically someone who has realistic expectations and is bothered by excess abdominal skin and fat that has not responded to diet and exercise. This procedure is often sought by individuals who have undergone significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging and are left with loose, sagging skin and weakened abdominal muscles. It's important that candidates are in good overall health, as abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure. Additionally, women who plan to have more children may be advised to wait until after completing their family, as future pregnancies can affect the results. A consultation with Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz is crucial to determine if a tummy tuck is the right choice and to discuss individual goals and considerations.

What is better Lipo or tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck is ideal for individuals with excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles, often due to factors like pregnancy or significant weight loss. It removes excess skin and fat, tightens the abdominal muscles, and reshapes the abdomen, resulting in a flatter and more toned appearance. A tummy tuck is ideal for individuals with excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles, often due to factors like pregnancy or significant weight loss. It removes excess skin and fat, tightens the abdominal muscles, and reshapes the abdomen, resulting in a flatter and more toned appearance.

Liposuction is ideal for those with localized fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. It effectively contours specific areas but doesn't address excess skin or muscle laxity. Conversely, individuals with significant skin laxity or weakened muscles may find a tummy tuck more suitable, as it targets both fat and skin laxity. Consult with Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz to see which is best for you.

Would a Mommy Makeover include a Tummy Tuck?

Deciding between a Tummy Tuck and a Mommy Makeover is a personal choice based on your unique body and goals. If you're mainly concerned about your abdomen, a Tummy Tuck might be the right choice. However, a Mommy Makeover could be more suitable if you want to address multiple areas affected by pregnancy, such as the breasts and abdomen. Additionally, a Mommy Makeover may include procedures like liposuction to enhance overall body contour. Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz can provide personalized recommendations during a consultation to help you make the best decision for your transformation.

The Tummy Tuck Process - What to Expect

During your tummy tuck journey, you'll first have an initial consultation with one of our surgeons, Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz, where you can openly discuss your concerns, goals, and medical history. He will evaluate your abdomen's condition and work with you to create a personalized surgical plan tailored to your needs.

On the day of your tummy tuck procedure in San Antonio, you'll be administered anesthesia for your comfort and safety. Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz will make incisions, typically in the lower abdomen, to gain access to the underlying abdominal tissue.

Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz will carefully remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal region, resulting in a flatter and smoother abdominal contour. In cases where there is muscle laxity, Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz may also tighten the abdominal muscles to restore their firmness and tone. The incisions, strategically placed to minimize visibility, will then be meticulously closed with sutures, and you'll begin your recovery journey.

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Wide Awake Rapid Recovery (Mini Tummy Tuck)

We are excited to offer the cutting-edge Wide Awake Rapid Recovery approach at Micallef Plastic Surgery. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Christopher J. Micallef and Alexandra S Ortiz, this technique utilizes tumescent anesthesia to alleviate pain and reduce bleeding and bruising. Patients remain awake, enabling them to communicate directly with the surgeon throughout the procedure for a truly tailored experience. This innovative method reduces trauma to surrounding tissues, promoting a faster recovery so that patients can resume normal activities in just a few days to a week.

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Tummy Tuck Recovery

Following your tummy tuck in San Antonio, a crucial phase begins – the recovery. Initially, there may be some discomfort and swelling, which is entirely normal. Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz will provide detailed instructions on how to manage any discomfort, including prescribed medications. You'll wear a supportive compression garment to help minimize swelling and support your healing tissues.

Expect to take it easy during the first few days, gradually increasing your activity as you feel more comfortable. While light activities can be resumed relatively soon, strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks. Most patients can return to work within a couple of weeks, although individual recovery times vary.

As your body heals, you'll notice improvements in the appearance and contour of your abdominal area. The full results will become increasingly evident over the following months as swelling subsides and your incision lines mature. Ultimately, you can look forward to a flatter, firmer, and more toned abdomen that enhances your overall body contour, revitalizing your self-confidence and allowing you to feel comfortable and confident in your appearance.

FAQ

How many sizes do you lose with a Tummy Tuck?

Does insurance ever cover a Tummy Tuck?

Does tummy tuck remove pooch?

Why do you have to walk bent over after tummy tuck?

Why does my stomach feel so tight after tummy tuck?

How many sizes do you lose with a Tummy Tuck?

On average, a tummy tuck procedure typically results in a reduction of about 2 to 4 inches in waist circumference. However, this can vary depending on factors such as the amount of excess skin and fat removed, the patient's body composition, and individual healing.

Does insurance ever cover a Tummy Tuck?

Insurance generally doesn't cover a tummy tuck for cosmetic purposes, but may consider it if the procedure is deemed medically necessary due to health issues caused by excess skin and tissue. It's advisable to consult with both your insurance provider and Dr. Micallef to explore potential coverage options.

Does tummy tuck remove pooch?

Yes, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can effectively remove excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen (pooch), resulting in a flatter and more toned appearance. Additionally, it can tighten the abdominal muscles, further enhancing the overall contour of the abdomen.

Why do you have to walk bent over after tummy tuck?

After a tummy tuck, walking bent over is often necessary to reduce tension on the incision site and to minimize discomfort. This posture helps alleviate strain on the abdominal muscles and allows for better healing of the surgical area. It's important to follow post-operative instructions provided by Dr. Micallef to ensure optimal recovery and to gradually return to an upright posture as advised.

Why does my stomach feel so tight after tummy tuck?

The tightness you feel in your stomach after a tummy tuck is a normal part of the healing process. During the surgery, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and excess skin is removed, which can create a sensation of tightness as the tissues adjust to their new position. Additionally, swelling and inflammation in the surgical area can contribute to this feeling of tightness.

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Why Choose Micallef Plastic Surgery?

At Micallef Plastic Surgery, choosing us means choosing excellence and a commitment to your well-being. Dr. Christopher J. Micallef, a double-board certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon, spearheads our practice, prioritizing personalized patient care to help you achieve your objectives. Recognized as one of San Antonio's premier plastic surgeons by MySanAntonio, his expertise ensures your confidence in our services. Our holistic approach to wellness and aesthetics focuses on enhancing your beauty and, in turn, elevating your self-esteem and quality of life. When you choose us, you choose personalized care, unwavering expertise, and the opportunity to embrace a more confident and beautiful you. To embark on a transformative journey with Micallef Plastic Surgery, schedule your consultation today.

Discover Why Others Chose Micallef Plastic Surgery

“...Dr. Micallef actively listened to me and made sure he understood what I wanted, suggesting alternative ways to achieve the desired result. He thoroughly explained the pros and cons of each procedure and helped me decide which would be the best and safest, given my age. I highly recommend Dr. Micallef to anyone seeking cosmetic surgery to improve their appearance and self-confidence.”

Susan S.

“Dr. Micallef has been a great physician to work with. I had many concerns with having implant replacement (in my 60’s). Dr M’s support has completely made the process easier and his continued encouragement is always appreciated. I am extremely pleased with how good everything looks. He is masterful at his skills and he is a really nice person.”

Caryn S.

“During the consultation, Dr. Micallef was very understanding of my concerns and answered all questions about potential complications and his work. I'm very pleased with the results - they're much more proportional to my body, and my recovery was smooth.” 

Isabel M.

"Highly recommend Dr. Micallef. From scheduling a consult to post op care, Dr. Micallef and his staff have been wonderful and very caring. He is very informative and puts the patients first. He is accessible at all times and is so easy to talk to. He listens to you and will address every issue you have. I can’t say enough about my positive experience I’ve had with Dr. Micallef and his staff. I had a breast augmentation and they are gorgeous  😍😍"

Tee

"I’m so glad I chose Dr Micallef. He is attentive and takes the time to ensure all my questions were answered at each appointment. I never once felt rushed. His staff is so friendly and quick to respond. I also appreciate Dr Micallef’s willingness to be available to me at any time, especially post surgery. My experience has been nothing but excellent and my results are amazing."

Sophia L.

"...I love my new body and this recovery has been so smooth. My post op care has been WONDERFUL!! Dr Micallef has been in constant contact with me and my husband from the moment I left the surgical facility. Reece and his staff are amazing. They are all so helpful and make time to answer or address any concerns. I am constantly bragging about him to EVERYONE!!!"

Lissette H.

"...Doctor Micallef is truly an artist who takes great measures to perfect his work and ensure you are extremely pleased with your results. He will also never offer a procedure that you will not benefit from and will tell you when not to waste your money. He’s not about the dollar, and truly has you and your goals in mind first. You can trust that, if you choose Dr. Micallef, you will in the best hands."

Marisa G.

"I can't recommend Dr. Micallef enough! He has been with me since the beginning of my post weight loss journey. He's helped me feel confident in my skin again! He truly cares for his patients, follows up and makes sure we are always taken care of. You will be in the best hands with Dr. Micallef!!"

Christine C.
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