Keeping the tummy tuck incision as low as possible.
One way our practice differs from others is that we use a technique called the very-low tummy tuck incision, which places the scar centrally a little less than 7 cm above the vaginal opening or penile shaft. The lateral portions (the sides) of the incision are placed at the junction between the thighs and tummy (in men we use a different technique on the sides). In most patients, this incision location is easier to hide and as it is located in an area where the body naturally bends at the hip, the scar is usually very pleasing and fades appropriately.
The remaining tummy skin is pulled down to meet the original low incision and closed using the most effective techniques currently available to reduce inflammation and achieve the most favorable (least noticeable) scar. A new opening is created for the belly button, and if the patient desires, the belly button itself may be downsized if it has become too large during pregnancy or weight gain. Dr. Aldo strives to create the most natural looking belly button after surgery. The effect is the creation of a flat and tight abdominal wall; one which can resemble the individual’s original shape and size, before the disfiguring effects of pregnancy or weight gain.
Another significant difference in our practice is that we tighten the abdominal muscles in several ways in order to achieve a better hourglass appearance and/or a natural abdominal muscular definition. The traditional six-pack muscle tightening procedure usually involves a double central row of sutures, a standard in most cases with separation of the muscles. We can add an additional row of tightening on the outer sides of the six-pack muscles in order to also tighten the oblique muscles of the abdominal wall, creating a more pronounced hourglass shape of the waistline, for individuals desiring this appearance. Additionally, horizontal sutures can be placed across the original vertical tightening for a greater tightening of the abdominal wall and to improve the muscle definition after surgery.
The third, and most important, way that we differentiate our practice from others is by performing the procedure in an extremely safe environment. We provide only certified anesthesia providers to deliver safe and effective anesthesia, certified surgery facilities with the potential for overnight stay with care administered by registered nurses, and patient controlled analgesia pumps to deliver efficient and appropriate pain control. We also provide a variety of prophylactic medications and devices that allow you to have the safest and smoothest tummy tuck recovery possible.
