Five Things to Know About Dr. Ravi’s SMART Tummy Tuck
February 15, 2020
02/15/2020 Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is designed to eliminate excess skin and stubborn fat from the belly and waist. This procedure can also be used to reattach abdominal muscles that have become separated due to pregnancy or weight gain, a condition known as diastasis recti.
Dr. Ravi is known for his skill in addressing diastasis recti. Taking time to precisely align each muscle before reattaching and firming helps to produce optimal effect and results. Dr. Ravi’s advanced techniques, combined with his dedication to patient safety and satisfaction have made our practice a popular choice for patients from around the world.
If you are interested in learning how our advanced, individualized tummy tuck approach might benefit you, call 281-242-1061 to schedule a consultation at our Houston office today.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure
There are two types of abdominoplasty: full and mini. Both require an incision just above the pubic area through which Dr. Ravi can remove excess fat, excise unnecessary skin, and access separated abdominal muscles. For a mini tuck, the incision will stop about midway across the abdomen. For a full tuck, the incision will extend from hip to hip.
Through these incisions, Dr. Ravi is able to eliminate stretched skin, tighten muscles, pull loose tissue taught, and remove unsightly fat. Belly button reshaping may take place following fat removal, but before the incisions are closed.
Five Common Questions About Our Tummy Tuck Procedure
What is the downtime following a SMART tummy tuck?
Most patients are able to resume working within two weeks. Jobs that require strenuous physical labor or heavy lifting will need to be avoided for up to six.
Is liposuction included in the tummy tuck procedure?
The SMART Tummy Tuck includes liposuction of the abdomen, waist and flanks, and mon’s area for overall abdominal contouring. Each procedure is tailored to the specific needs of the individual with liposuction being performed only on those areas where it will be useful.
Will surgical drains be necessary after tummy tuck surgery?
It is not uncommon to have one to two drains left in place for up to two weeks following surgery. These allow surgical and bodily fluids to more easily drain from the surgical area, helping to prevent infection and fluid retention. Drains are removed during a postoperative visit as soon as they are no longer needed.
When can I drive after my abdominoplasty procedure?
You will need a ride home from your procedure, but after that, you are free to drive as soon as you are:
- Off of all narcotic pain medications
- Comfortable operating a vehicle
Don’t rush your recovery. Listen to your body and closely follow our postoperative instructions. Dr. Ravi will work directly with you to help you determine when it is safe to resume normal activities.
How much pain will I be in after tummy tuck surgery?
Due to the special techniques Dr. Ravi uses, including the direct application of pain medication into the abdomen, our patients’ recovery is typically very comfortable. While some discomfort may be inevitable, following Dr. Ravi’s pre and postoperative instructions will help reduce risks of complications and allows for drastically improved comfort after the first few days.
Contact Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics to Learn More
To schedule a SMART tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Ravi, please call Body by Ravi Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics at 281-242-1061 today. Located in Houston, we welcome abdominoplasty patients from The Woodlands, Katy, Sugar Land, and throughout the world.
