Drain-free abdominoplasty with pubic lift and liposuction.Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a popular cosmetic procedure that helps flatten the belly and tighten the abdominal area. This surgical procedure is especially beneficial for patients who have loose skin or excess fat due to factors such as pregnancy, aging, or significant weight loss. Dr. Gallagher is a skilled plastic surgeon who specializes in a drain-free technique that results in faster healing and less pain for her patients.
Why Choose Abdominoplasty?
There are many reasons why patients choose abdominoplasty. It is particularly effective for moms who have loose tissue after childbirth or patients who have sagging skin after significant weight loss. Abdominoplasty can help both men and women achieve a slimmer, more toned appearance in the abdominal area.
A group of patients we see more commonly now are those who have been taking Semaglutide medications such as Ozempic® or Wegovy®. These are a prescription medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and to promote weight loss. Many patients who take Ozempic® have reported significant weight loss results. In some patients a scar-free skin tightening procedure such as Morpheus body may be enough. However, even moderate weight loss, often results in excess skin. In such cases, an abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, may be needed to achieve a smoother and firmer abdomen.
What is Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)?
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the abdominal muscles (when needed). The result is a firmer, flatter, and more contoured abdomen. The procedure can be customized to meet the needs of each individual patient, ranging from a mini tummy tuck to a full tummy tuck. With her background in gender affirmation surgery, Dr Gallagher understands the different needs a patient may have depending on their gender. For example, whereas female patients often seek a sinched waste a male patient will often want a more athletic look. We therefore are very careful to design the procedure keeping each individual’s preferences in mind. Commonly Dr Gallagher will also use liposuction to help contour the abdomen at the time of surgery.
With Liposuction?
Depending on the patient’s needs Dr. Gallagher often adds in liposuction as part of the sculpting technique.
What is special about the Drain-free Technique?
One of the most significant advancements in tummy tuck surgery is the development of a drain-free technique which Dr. Gallagher has published on. Traditionally, abdominoplasty procedures required the use of drains, which were tubes inserted into the incision site to help remove excess fluid that accumulates during the healing process. However, Dr. Gallagher specializes in a drain-free technique utilizing a special stitching technique that offers several advantages.
Faster Recovery Time
One of the most significant advantages of drain-free abdominoplasty is the faster recovery time. Traditional tummy tucks require patients to have drains for several days, which can be uncomfortable and limit mobility. With the drain-free technique, patients can avoid the discomfort of having drains, which allows them to recover more quickly and resume their normal activities sooner.
Less Discomfort
Having drains inserted during surgery can be uncomfortable and cause additional discomfort during the recovery process. Patients who undergo drain-free abdominoplasty experience less discomfort because they do not have to deal with the discomfort and inconvenience of drains. Additionally, they do not have to be removed while the patient is awake.
What about the pubic area?
At the same time as abdominoplasty Dr. Gallagher will also address the pubic area. Depending on the patient’s anatomy this can also be lifted and reduced at the same time as abdominoplasty.
What to Expect from Tummy Tuck
Before undergoing an abdominoplasty, patients will need to undergo a consultation with Dr. Gallagher to determine if they are good candidates for the procedure. Patients should be in good overall health, have a stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery.
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that requires general anesthesia. The procedure can take between 2-4 hours, depending on the extent of the surgery. During the procedure, Dr. Gallagher will make an incision in the lower abdomen, remove excess skin and fat, and tighten the abdominal muscles. The incision will be closed with dissolvable sutures, and patients will be given instructions on how to care for their incision site and manage any discomfort.
Dr. Gallagher’s drain-free technique eliminates the need for drainage tubes, and all stitches are dissolvable, allowing patients to shower just a few days after surgery. Recovery time varies, but most patients need between three and six weeks off work and exercise.
Abdominoplasty can transform a person’s body and give them the confidence they deserve. If you are interested in this procedure, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gallagher to learn more about how drain free abdominoplasty can help you achieve the body you desire. With her expertise, you can trust that you are in good hands and will have a smooth recovery.
