Tummy Tuck Abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is designed to correct a protruding abdomen resulting from weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy. These conditions may not respond well to diet or exercise if the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched. With a tummy tuck, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened and excess fatty tissue and skin are removed to improve the body contour. The goal is a narrower, flatter abdomen. However, if you are considering a tummy tuck in St. Louis, then realistic expectations are important. Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss. The staff at Parkcrest Plastic Surgery considers age, obesity and smoking habits when evaluating potential St. Louis tummy tuck patients. During your initial consultation, we will answer all of your questions about the procedure, including details about St. Louis tummy tuck costs and financing options. You can also take a look at our St. Louis tummy tuck before and after photos to get an even better idea of what kind of results are possible with the procedure. |  | Before Surgery We will take a complete medical history and conduct a careful examination to evaluate your general overall health. Ideally, a patient seeking a tummy tuck in St. Louis has no health problems and wishes only to remove an excess fat deposit or loose abdominal skin. Patients on a weight-loss plan should be close to their target weight before having the operation. Women planning future pregnancies should delay abdominoplasty, as pregnancy may promote further stretching. Prior to your tummy tuck in St. Louis, you will be prescribed antibiotics to prevent infection. To minimize the possibility of excess bleeding, you will need to avoid taking aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs for a period of time before and after a tummy tuck. You may also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap before you undergo abdominoplasty. Photographs will be taken before and after surgery, so you can see the effects of your tummy tuck. The Procedure Tummy tucks in St. Louis are typically performed using general anesthesia. You may be given medication beforehand so you will feel relaxed. The surgery may take 2-5 hours, depending on the patient's overall condition. You may be released after a few hours, or you may require an overnight stay. Detailed pre- and post-op instructions will be provided for you both during your consultation and after surgery. Once you have undergone abdominoplasty, we will keep track of your progress through a number of appointments during your recovery period. The doctors and staff at Parkcrest Plastic Surgery welcome questions from men and women throughout the St. Louis region. We have assisted St. Charles and Chesterfield tummy tuck patients, as well as individuals from other outlying areas. No matter where you live, our goal is to combine surgical efficiency with a warm, dedicated attitude. We feature four board-certified plastic surgeons who keep up-to-date on the latest Missouri tummy tuck techniques. Please schedule a consultation to speak with one of us today. |