Tummy Tuck in Houston - Frequent Questions
If you're like most women considering a tummy tuck in Houston, you have plenty of questions. On this page Dr. Camille Cash takes the time to answer some of the most common questions she gets from women who want to learn more about their body contouring options. If you have a specific question that you don't see answered here, send Dr. Cash an email and she will be in touch with more information.
What is a mini-tummy tuck and am I a candidate?
A mini-tummy tuck is a procedure in which the incision used is shorter than one for a standard or full tummy tuck in Houston, Texas. The surgery addresses the skin of the lower abdomen only. There is typically no incision around the belly button and the skin around the belly button is changed minimally.
Candidates for this procedure cannot have loose skin or muscle weakness in the upper abdomen or they'll have a better result with a standard tummy tuck.
How much pain will I have?
Most patients describe their discomfort as moderate to severe. However, Dr. Cash uses post-operative pain pumps to significantly decrease your discomfort following surgery. With a pain pump, thin catheters are place directly underneath your skin and bathe the surgical area with a local anesthetic similar to lidocaine. They stay in place for 3-5 days and are easily removed by a family member.
How do I choose between liposuction and a tummy tuck?
During your consultation, Dr. Cash will evaluate your cosmetic concerns and give you a professional opinion about which types of procedures she believes will be most beneficial. In general, liposuction is appropriate for women and men who only have excess fat in the abdominal area, while abdominoplasty also retightens loose muscle and removes extra, hanging skin.
Where is the surgery performed?
Depending on the length of surgery, any medical conditions you may have and your family support at home, Dr. Cash may recommend an accredited hospital for your abdominoplasty where you can stay 1-2 nights, or you may have the procedure done in an accredited surgical center and go home several hours after surgery.
Will I have a scar?
Scars are inevitable with any surgery, unfortunately, but there are precautions that can be taken to give you the best outcome possible. Dr. Cash will close all incisions meticulously with suture material that has an antibacterial coating and is absorbed by your body. Other remedies ranging from over-the-counter products to silicone sheeting can be also be used.
What are the possible complications with this surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery has potential risks associated with it as do all surgeries, such as infection, bleeding and possible infection. These complications are rarely occur and are often minor and resolve easily.
Very rarely patients will desire a revision to improve the appearance of a scar.
Dr. Cash invites you to request a consultation for a personal, private plastic surgery appointment. Or, you can call 713-571-0600 to schedule a visit with us.