Tummy Tuck
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Tualatin and Portland, Oregon
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that helps individuals sculpt a flatter midsection. Tummy tucks involve the removal of excess skin, stretch marks, and fat. In most cases, the tummy tuck includes tightening the abdominal muscles. (1) Whether it is due to genetics, weight loss, or pregnancy, excess abdominal skin can be difficult to address through exercise and dieting; a tummy tuck procedure helps individuals achieve a body they can feel more confident with.
With a tummy tuck performed by a highly qualified and board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Aaron Gorin, you can achieve a flatter, firmer midsection. Gorin Plastic Surgery & Medspa is one of the most trusted practices in the Portland area, and we have a strong reputation for helping patients achieve impressive results. If you would like to begin planning a tummy tuck treatment, schedule a consultation with Dr. Gorin today.
If you have any questions or would prefer to schedule an appointment over the phone, please call our Tualatin office at (503) 692-7222.
Contents
About Tummy Tucks
Tummy tuck surgery is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure that focuses on the abdominal area. It aims to remove excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. Individuals often find themselves with loose skin or sagging tissue in the abdominal region due to several factors, including weight fluctuations, genetic predispositions, and post-pregnancy body changes. The goals of a tummy tuck vary, but common patients are often looking to achieve a more toned appearance, enhancing self-confidence, and improving body proportions.
Tummy tuck surgery can be customized based on each patient’s unique anatomy and desired outcomes.
Benefits
Dr. Gorin’s tummy tuck patients see many benefits, including:
- Improved posture: Carrying an apron of excess skin combined with weakened abdominal muscles can lead to a condition called lordosis.
- Hernia relief: Many moms end up with a hernia at the belly button after pregnancy. This usually looks like a little bulge on one side of the belly button skin. Dr. Gorin will repair this at the time of the tummy tuck.
- Increased stamina: Excess skin and weak abs can make it difficult to exercise. A tummy tuck can reinvigorate the patient’s love of running, walking, or other aerobic activities.
- Improved appearance: A tummy tuck provides a smoother and firmer abdominal contour, creating a more appealing appearance.
- Enhanced body confidence: Many patients experience boosted self-esteem following surgery, feeling more comfortable wearing fitted clothes or swimsuits.
- Repaired abdominal muscles: After pregnancy or weight fluctuations, the abdominal muscles may separate—a process known as diastasis recti. A tummy tuck restores muscle integrity and promotes a stronger core.
- Removal of excess skin: Following significant weight loss or pregnancy, excess skin might hinder one’s confidence. A tummy tuck removes this additional skin permanently.
- Long-lasting results: Unlike non-surgical methods such as diet plans, the results of a tummy tuck can be substantial and enduring when patients maintain a stable weight.
Candidates
Any patient with any degree of excess skin around their abdomen can receive a tummy tuck. This is a very common procedure for weight loss patients, especially those who have lost significant amounts of weight in a short time frame. In any case, patients must be at a stable weight before receiving this treatment. Any excessive weight gain or loss can impact some of the results of a tummy tuck. (1) Candidates for a tummy tuck should also be in good general health, not smoke, and have realistic expectations about their results.
Personal Consultation
Dr. Aaron Gorin is a skilled tummy tuck surgeon who provides a personalized approach to each procedure so that each patient feels and confident with their outcome. The first step in your tummy tuck treatment is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gorin. At this appointment, you will discuss your goals, have your abdominal skin examined, and explore your treatment options. Your medical history will also be reviewed to ensure your safety during your procedure and recovery. Your preparation requirements will also be planned to meet the needs of your goals and medical history. Once Dr. Gorin has collected the necessary information, he will create a customized treatment plan and you will schedule your procedure.
Preparation
Proper preparation for your procedure is vital for ensuring a positive and satisfactory outcome. You will receive preparation instructions that are specific to your procedure, but you can expect to:
- Cease taking certain medications: Some blood-thinning medications or supplements may cause complications during your procedure.
- Avoid nicotine use: Tobacco and other forms of nicotine can decelerate your healing.
- Fill prescriptions early: Obtain pain medication and antibiotics in advance to have them ready post-surgery.
- Arrange transportation: You will need someone to drive you to and from your procedure.
Procedure
The tummy tuck procedure starts with Dr. Gorin making a discreet incision below the belly button. Dr. Gorin will remove excess tissue from the abdomen and repair the abdominal muscles if necessary. (2) If your tummy tuck requires liposuction, Dr. Gorin can address this as well.
Tummy tuck procedures typically take around two hours to complete, but this can vary. Dr. Gorin uses IV sedation instead of general anesthesia for tummy tucks–so no breathing tube is needed!
Recovery
During your recovery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and soreness in your abdomen. You will receive a prescription for pain medications, and these should be taken as instructed. You should avoid exercise for at least four weeks, and any intense activities or more strenuous exercise should be postponed for at least six weeks.
Dr. Gorin also offers Exparel to help patients accelerate their recovery. Exparel is a long-lasting injectable pain medication that is administered to the abdominal muscles at the end of the procedure. It helps to significantly reduce discomfort and soreness during your recovery and helps patients see an improvement in their condition much quicker. (3)
Results
You will be able to see the full results of your tummy tuck after swelling dissipates. Sagging skin around your waist will be reduced and you will be left with a smoother, more taut midsection. Your midsection will also be supported by the tightened muscles, which will help you regain strength in the area. Dr. Gorin’s patients are regularly satisfied with their results and see long-lasting effects that improve their lives. It is important to keep in mind that the results of a tummy tuck can be affected by pregnancy or future weight gain.
Corresponding & Complementary Procedures
A mommy makeover is a more comprehensive approach for patients who would like to regain their pre-childbirth body. Mommy makeovers typically include a tummy tuck along with targeted liposuction as well as a breast lift and/or breast augmentation. If you want to enhance your figure after pregnancy or weight loss, speak with Dr. Gorin about the possibility of a mommy makeover during your personal consultation.
Cost of Tummy Tucks in Portland
When you meet with Dr. Gorin for a consultation–or contacting Dr. Gorin directly–and discuss your procedure plans, you will receive a price quote. We offer financing plans for your convenience. If you have any questions about payments, prices, procedures, our practice, or more, please do not hesitate to call our Tualatin office at (503) 692-7222. Our staff are always happy to speak with patients and can help you get any information you need.
FAQ
What is the best age for a tummy tuck?
While there is no specific “best age,” many patients range between their mid-20s and late 50s. What matters most is the patient’s overall health and readiness for surgery.
Can a tummy tuck be performed after pregnancy?
Yes! A tummy tuck can help restore your abdominal contour following childbirth. This procedure should be postponed until you do not plan to have any more children, however.
How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
Results are long-lasting, provided the patient maintains a stable weight and good lifestyle habits. Weight fluctuations post-surgery may affect outcome sustainability.
Do tummy tucks leave scars?
A tummy tuck will involve some degree of scarring. However, skilled techniques and careful incision placement can help minimize visibility.
Are there any non-surgical alternatives to a tummy tuck?
While there are non-surgical methods, like skin-tightening treatments or targeted weight-loss solutions, these alternatives will not provide the same drastic results as abdominoplasty.
When can I resume my normal routines after my tummy tuck?
Most patients return to light activities within one to two weeks and to full activities typically within four to six weeks, depending upon individual recovery times and surgical techniques employed.
References
- Regan JP, Casaubon JT. Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck). PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431058/
- Ramirez AE, Hsieh TY, Cardenas JP, Lao WW. Abdominoplasty: My Preferred Techniques. Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2021;86(3S):S229. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0000000000002639
- Kaye AD, Armstead-Williams C, Hyatali F, et al. Exparel for Postoperative Pain Management: a Comprehensive Review. Current Pain and Headache Reports. 2020;24(11):73. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s11916-020-00905-4