Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery in Palm Harbor and Tampa Bay

Achieving a flatter, tighter abdominal area is a goal for many women and men.

For many women, the abdomen can be one of the most challenging areas to keep under control with the aging process. Perhaps even more challenging are the extreme effects that occur with pregnancy, including significant stretching of the skin, thinning and loss of elasticity of the skin from hormonal influences, and separation of the supporting muscles or "six pack." Weight gain can be addressed over time with diet and exercise, but the loss of skin elasticity cannot. Abdominal muscles can also be strengthened with exercise, but it will not bring them back together. This separation of the abdominal muscles contributes to the "pouching" of the abdomen that many women complain of.

While most people associate cosmetic surgery with women, the male tummy tuck has become an increasingly common way for men to flatten the difficult-to-tone stomach area. For more information on Male Tummy Tuck Surgery or other commonly performed Male Cosmetic Surgery, click here.

What Tummy Tuck Surgery Offers Both Women and Men

Palm Harbor Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. isidoros Moraitis, addresses all these components with Abdominoplasty, or Tummy Tuck Surgery. With this procedure, the muscles are tightened together again, providing greater support. Excess skin and tissue, or “pouch”, is removed and the remaining skin is tightened. Dr. Moraitis customizes this surgery to each patient’s specific goals and sometimes recommends a combination of Liposuction or other Body Contouring procedure.

Tummy Tuck Incisions

For Tummy Tuck Surgery, a horizontal incision is placed just within or above the pubic area. The length of the incision necessary depends on the amount of skin to be removed. The contour of this incision may vary somewhat according to the structure of your abdomen and the style of bathing suit or undergarments that you prefer. Through this incision, Dr. Moraitis brings the abdominal muscle back together with sutures and removes the excess skin and tissue, resulting in a flatter, more contoured abdomen. For patients with loose skin above the navel, or belly button, Dr. Moraitis may recommend a second incision around the navel so that the redundant skin above it can be pulled down, leaving the position of the navel unchanged.

Skin of the lower abdomen that contains stretch marks may be removed as well. Any remaining stretch marks may be somewhat flattened and improved, but you should not expect a dramatic change in their appearance.

Variations in Technique

There are many variations both to the design of the incisions and the technique itself. In some instances, it may be possible to avoid an incision around the navel. When the amount of loose skin is minimal and the excess fat deposits are located below the navel, a short horizontal incision is all that is necessary. This procedure is called a Partial or “Mini” Abdominoplasty.

Typical Tummy Tuck Results

As an experienced and skilled Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Moraitis is able to place the incisions so that the resulting scars are barely visible, and easily concealed by a typical bathing suit or bikini. Following Tummy Tuck Surgery, Dr. Moraitis’ patients can enjoy a firmer, more toned midsection and even improved posture as a result of the tightening of abdominal muscles. Many patients find that their self-esteem is improved and their wardrobe selections grow.

Maintaining Your Figure

While many women and men seek Plastic Surgery to tone and improve body contour, it is vital to remember that it does not substitute for a healthy diet and regular exercise. Results can be life-long, but it is still possible to gain weight in the abdomen and in other areas after Tummy Tuck Surgery or other Body Contouring Procedure offered by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Isidoros Moraitis.

Complimentary Cosmetic Consultation

A complimentary cosmetic consultation with Dr. Moraitis to discuss your options for Tummy Tuck Surgery can help you decide if it is right for you.

For more information on Tummy Tuck Surgery or to schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation at our Palm Harbor plastic surgery practice, please >contact us by calling 727-773-9796 today or by completing our contact form to request a personal contact from our office.

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