When Is a Tummy Tuck Revision Considered?
Subsequent Pregnancy
Patients are typically advised to wait to undergo their initial tummy tuck until they no longer plan to become pregnant. However, it is not uncommon for plans to change and additional pregnancies to occur. While a previous tummy tuck does not affect pregnancy, pregnancies after a tummy tuck can alter or even reverse your initial surgery results, which may require a revision procedure.
Unsatisfactory Results
Surgical results can be unpredictable and vary by surgeon and the patient’s own ability to heal. Some patients who undergo a tummy tuck are unsatisfied with the appearance of their navel, visible scarring, continued abdominal bulging, or overall abdominal contour. Tummy tuck revision can address these concerns and fine-tune the abdomen’s aesthetic.
Weight Fluctuations
Those who have experienced significant weight fluctuations following tummy tuck surgery may notice that their original tummy tuck’s outcome was compromised. With tummy tuck revision surgery, newly accumulated fat deposits and excess skin can be removed to restore the former, more sculpted abdominal contour.
Am I a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Revision?
Tummy tuck revision is a comprehensive method for correcting lackluster tummy tuck results and getting the physique you’ve always desired. Men and women interested in tummy tuck revision:
- Feel self-conscious about the appearance of their abdomen
- Have tummy tuck scars that are easily visible or raised
- Struggle with excess fat that remained or developed after the initial tummy tuck surgery
- Think their navel appears unnatural after a previous tummy tuck procedure
- Struggle with a protruding abdomen even after abdominoplasty
- Need to have their tummy tuck revised after a pregnancy
What Is Discussed During My Tummy Tuck Revision Consultation?
Dr. Agullo understands the importance of having an open and thorough discussion with each patient before developing a personalized surgical plan. You will have the opportunity to communicate your concerns and health history with Dr. Agullo to help him develop a surgical plan.During your meeting, Dr. Agullo will:
- Evaluate your medical history, cosmetic concerns, and problem areas
- Discuss your wishes and expectations for your results
- Determine what you do not like from your previous abdominoplasty
- Examine your skin and muscle laxity
- Suggest additional or alternative treatments that could provide better results
- Take body measurements and ‘before’ photos
- Detail how to prepare for your tummy tuck revision
What Does My Tummy Tuck Revision Include?
Tummy tuck revision is an outpatient surgery performed under general anesthesia to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. When appropriate, the original incisions can be used and are usually lowered to minimize the risk of additional scarring. Excess skin is removed, and an abdominal liposuction treatment may be performed to eliminate stubborn fat deposits and define the waist. If the abdominal muscles are damaged, they can also be repaired and tightened with Dr. Agullo’s triple plication, “internal corset” technique.
What Are the Differences in Dr. Agullo’s Tummy Tucks?
There is a reason why so many patients are on a waitlist for Dr. Agullo’s tummy tucks and revisions. Dr. Agullo has incorporated great attention to detail and artistry into his unique techniques.
Aggressive Liposuction
Dr. Agullo uses circumferential liposuction on all his tummy tucks, even revisions. VASER® allows for the breakdown of the previous scarring for a smoother result and a “snatched” waist.
Triple Plication
Dr. Agullo creates a permanent corset with your muscles using the triple plication technique to obtain a “Hollywood” waist.
Ultra-Low Scar
Dr. Agullo prides himself on providing ultra-low scars. They are usually lower than C-section scars and always below the mons hairline for easy concealment.
Designer Belly Button
Not every patient desires the same belly button. Some like it oval, others round, and some more elongated. Dr. Agullo will keep your wish in mind and hide the scar within your umbilicus.
Quilting Sutures
Dr. Agullo will apply quilting sutures before finishing your procedure. This decreases the time required for drains.
Mons Reduction
The mons area is often ignored by surgeons when performing a tummy tuck. Dr. Agullo performs aggressive liposuction in this area and, when necessary, removes the excess fat bags in the mons area.
Say No to Pain
Extreme results don’t have to be painful. Dr. Agullo applies a total abdominal block with EXPAREL®, which lasts up to 72 hours. Many patients report no pain after a tummy tuck, which is unheard of. We can’t promise this, but it certainly makes a difference.
At Agullo Plastic Surgery, tailored care begins with a full consultation to discuss the goals and options available.
How Should I Prepare for My Tummy Tuck Revision?
Planning for your surgery in advance can help make your recovery go quickly and smoothly. Some general preparation guidelines include:
- Quit the use of all tobacco products and blood-thinning medications for at least two weeks before and after the scheduled procedure.
- Arrange for a relative or friend to transport you to and from the facility and assist you during the first 24 hours after your surgery. Most patients will need help for at least five days.
- Get all of the required paperwork and your ID ready the night before your procedure.
- Avoid eating or drinking after midnight on the day of your surgery.
- Refrain from applying any lotions or creams to your abdomen the day of your procedure.
What Are Your Concerns for Tummy Tuck Revision?
What Can I Expect During My Tummy Tuck Revision Recovery?
Tummy tuck revision will have a similar recovery process to your original tummy tuck. Dr. Agullo will provide you with a detailed guide for taking care of bandages, managing pain with medications, and other elements of your healing process. Patients may be given an abdominal binder to support the abdomen for several weeks.
Normal activities can be resumed after the first two weeks of recovery. However, it can take up to three months for the swelling and bruising to subside completely. The average patient can take up to a month off from work to recover.
Is Tummy Tuck Revision Painful?
Extreme results don’t have to be painful. Dr. Agullo applies a total abdominal block with EXPAREL®, which lasts up to 72 hours. Many patients report no pain after a tummy tuck, which is unheard of. We can’t promise this, but it certainly makes a difference.
Of course, during the procedure patients are unconscious and don’t feel pain with the use of anesthesia. Dr. Agullo will prescribe pain medications to manage any post-operative discomfort, soreness, and pain. A compression garment around the midsection will also help relieve pain.
Will Tummy Tuck Revision Leave Scars?
A tummy tuck revision cannot eliminate the scar’s appearance; however, it will improve its severity and properly hide the incision below the bikini line.
When Will I See My Tummy Tuck Revision Results?
Results from your tummy tuck revision can take up to six months or a year to become fully visible. Every patient heals at a slightly different rate than the next. Once the swelling has subsided, you will be able to enjoy your new midsection for years to come.
What Does Tummy Tuck Revision Cost?
Pricing varies depending on the extent of the treatment or surgery. You can see a list of the approximate prices of each procedure on our current fee schedule. Generally speaking, cosmetic plastic surgery is considered an “elective” and is not covered by most insurance plans.
The prices listed on our fee schedule represent the minimum cost of the procedures, including anesthesia and surgical facility fees, medical tests, garments, and recovery products. The cost of prescription medications, however, is not included. The exact price of each procedure can only be determined after a thorough consultation. All fees must be paid in full before the scheduled treatment.
What Are Some Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tuck Revision?
Most patients can resume working and their usual activities two to three weeks after surgery. However, strenuous exercises must be avoided for six to eight weeks to ensure optimal healing. Dr. Agullo will give you a tummy tuck recovery timeline that reflects your procedure during your consultation.
Patients typically do not experience significant complications after a tummy tuck revision. However, all surgeries come with potential risks, such as:
- Visible scarring
- Poor wound healing
- Asymmetrical results
- Hematoma or seroma
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Bleeding
- Infection
Although Dr. Agullo incorporates the quilting sutures used by other surgeons in the drainless tummy tuck technique, he still recommends using drains. Since he performs more liposuction than most during a tummy tuck, there is a large amount of drainage that would build up under your skin and compromise your results. However, the quilting sutures do decrease the amount of time the drains are to remain in place.
Most insurance companies do not cover tummy tuck procedures; however, if you seek tummy tuck revision for reconstructive or health-related concerns, the cost of your surgery may be partially or fully covered. Contact your insurance provider to learn more about their policy for tummy tuck revision.
Men can acquire a lean, athletic, more contoured midsection with a tummy tuck. However, men are just as susceptible to inexperienced tummy tuck operations as women. Tummy tuck revision for men will remove excess skin, adjust a misshapen midsection, and correct unfavorable scarring.
Dr. Agullo will share tummy tuck revision before and after photos during your consultation or at your request during any appointments before your operation.
Interested in Tummy Tuck Revision in El Paso?
If you want to learn more about Dr. Agullo’s tummy tuck revision, contact his office by calling (915) 590-7900. Dr. Agullo offers tummy tuck revision for patients in El Paso, Texas, and the greater El Paso area.
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