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    Sculpt Your Abdominal Profile with a Tummy Tuck

    A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, surgically removes the excess skin and fatty deposits from your abdomen while concurrently repositioning your abdominal muscles into a tighter, healthier structure. The result? A tighter, flatter, firmer tummy zone that you feel confident revealing in tight clothing.

    Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Before & Afters

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    The Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

    Your tummy tuck in Houston will address multiple physiological problems in a single procedure. While it contours your stomach, re-establishing a flat plane between your hip bones, a tummy tuck also tightens muscles that may have separated or become distended after pregnancy and childbirth, weight loss, or age. The medical term for this condition is “diastasis recti”, rectified by placing internal stitches that bring the muscles back together at the midline.

    Tightening the muscles in the abdominal area, in turn, can ease urinary incontinence, improve posture, and relieve back pain resulting from poor posture. Throw in the fact that the average tummy tuck removes 10 pounds of skin and fat, and it is no wonder requests for tummy tucks have doubled since 2000.

    Tummy tuck with Dr. Courtney

    A healthy diet and exercise go a long way in creating a toned body. Still, sagging, separated muscles in the midsection, along with the propensity of the body to store fat in the area, mean that getting to your ideal shape could require surgical intervention.

    If you are close to or at your ideal weight and still not satisfied with the shape of your stomach, a tummy tuck in Houston may be right for you. Houston’s Dr. Courtney can reshape your silhouette, flatten your stomach, and restore a more youthful, taut body profile.

    video still of Dr. Courtney talking with a patient about a tummy tuck procedure

    Is a tummy tuck right for me?

    Whether you are genetically predisposed to storing excess fat in your abdomen or have sagging skin from a prior pregnancy, you may feel you do not look your best. Your clothing choices have diminished, and you hesitate to undress in moments of intimacy. Thankfully, this condition can be reversed with a tummy tuck, leaving you looking and feeling sexy and confident.

    An abdominoplasty in Houston is best for those who are through their childbearing years and are close to an ideal weight. Candidates should also be practicing habits that will keep their weight steady in years to come. This said, weight gain or another pregnancy after tummy tuck certainly will not harm the patient in any way. Another pregnancy or weight gain can impact the advances gained with a tummy tuck procedure.

    Your tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Courtney in Houston, TX

    Before your consultation, our practice manager will ask you to gather photos depicting people who enjoy figures similar to what you would like to achieve. Images of your younger self can reveal your vision for your figure. If you have complex medical issues, we may ask you to bring some records as well. During your private, in-person consultation with Dr. Courtney, he will focus on understanding your goals and desires. There is no single, ideal figure, and Dr. Courtney knows each patient is unique and different.

    He will also review your medical history and conduct a thorough physical exam. He will check for conditions such as diastasis recti (split abdominal muscles) or umbilical hernias. These steps help him understand your body’s natural architecture so he can develop a surgical plan that renders the most natural-looking results possible.

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    Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction

    While some patients may believe that liposuction alone can sculpt the ideal waistline, they often overlook the substantial benefits that a tummy tuck offers. Unlike liposuction, which primarily targets fat removal, a tummy tuck not only eliminates excess fat but also addresses underlying issues such as damaged or separated abdominal muscles. This procedure tightens and repositions the muscles, providing a firmer, more defined abdominal contour.

    We have found that getting that 10 pounds of excess skin and fat removed in a single surgery often kickstarts a patient’s drive to exercise and adopt a healthier lifestyle for the long term. This holistic approach not only enhances physical appearance but also contributes to improved self-esteem and overall well-being.

    @contouredbydrc Here are 5 Tummy Tuck facts you MUST know before having your surgery! 😱 #tummytuck #tummytuckjourney #tummytuckrecovery #skinremoval #skinremovalsurgery #swelling #bloating #plasticsurgery #tummytucktuesday #abdominoplastia #abdominoplasty ♬ Boy's a Liar Pt. 2 - PinkPantheress & Ice Spice

    The Tummy Tuck Procedure

    Dr. Courtney’s training in reconstructive and plastic surgery has provided him with a wide variety of techniques to help you achieve your desired goals. Surgical techniques for tummy tuck surgery vary depending on how much fat and skin must be removed and whether you have any accompanying procedures scheduled, such as liposuction or breast augmentation as part of a mommy makeover.

    Classic Tummy Tuck

    A traditional tummy tuck addresses both the lower and upper abdomen. The incision is made in a U-shape in the lower abdomen, from hip to hip, and placed low enough to be hidden by bathing suits and underwear. Another small incision will be made in the navel. The navel can also be repositioned during the classic tummy tuck, if necessary.

    Extended Tummy Tuck

    Patients with excess fat and skin in the flanks and back, as well as the abdomen, often opt for the extended tummy tuck. This extended tummy tuck requires a longer incision, but the fat and skin removed significantly slim a patient’s midsection. The scar can be hidden by most clothing, and many patients feel that the radical change to their silhouette is worth undergoing more extensive surgery

    Partial or Mini-Tummy Tuck

    If you have a small belly “pouch” located at the navel or below and not much excess skin, a mini tummy tuck could be your remedy. During the mini tummy tuck, Dr. Courtney makes a small incision that is easily hidden by most bathing suits and underwear. He then surgically re-contours your lower abdomen through the incision, repairing damage to the abdominal wall and removing fat and excess skin. This approach is highly effective and requires less downtime than the classic tummy tuck. The best candidates for the mini-tummy tuck are those with minimal excess skin and fat in the abdomen. If your belly “pouch” includes the upper abdomen, only a classic (full) tummy tuck will re-establish flat, youthful contours.

    Liposuction + tummy tuck for comprehensive results

    Many of our patients add liposuction to their tummy tuck, completing two procedures during one surgery. The combination of procedures allows for additional shaping, transforming the silhouette, and delivering a more dramatic result.

    Breast Reduction and Tummy Tuck

    Recovery After a Tummy Tuck

    Your stomach will be bandaged after surgery to protect the area and minimize post-surgical swelling. Depending on the extent of your surgery, you may have some surgical drains in place as well. Patients who have had a more extensive abdominoplasty and liposuction often remain overnight, while a minimal procedure will allow you to go home on the same day as your surgery.

    The first day after surgery, it is an option to have a home care nurse come to you to check your sutures, bandaging, and overall wellness. If you are one of our out-of-town patients, the nurse comes to your hotel or recovery center. During the first couple of days after surgery, you may get up and walk around a bit, but you should not plan on doing much during this time.

    Most patients rest in bed for a few days. You will need someone at home with you for at least two days to help you during your recovery. Dr. Courtney will prescribe non-narcotic pain medication to treat any pain and swelling. Bruising, redness, and swelling are common effects of the surgery, and these will subside over the following weeks.

    How Long Will it Take to Recover After Surgery?

    Your overall healing time will depend on the extent of your surgery. If you have surgical drains in place, these will be removed within a week when you have your first follow-up appointment. Dr. Courtney will take time with you before your procedure to explain how to take care of your incisions and any drains; it is essential to follow all your post-operative care instructions to maximize healing and minimize swelling. Doing your part to care for yourself while you heal will ensure that you get the best possible outcome.

    Your Tummy Tuck Results

    While you will notice changes to your body immediately after your surgery, it takes some time for ultimate results to be achieved. Swelling may not entirely subside for two or more months. Scars take two months or more to fade. You should be able to return to work and routine, gentle daily activities within a couple of weeks when you no longer need prescription pain medication. After a couple of months, when all swelling has subsided, and your tummy has fully healed, you will be able to see your final, beautiful results. Your scars will continue to fade over the coming months.

    Dr. Courtney Plastic Surgery

    Concierge Tummy Tuck Services in Houston, TX

    Elective surgery is a big decision, and you want to select the most qualified surgeon to ensure you get the results you desire and that enhance your quality of life for the long term. Dr. Courtney’s training and experience in the most current techniques not only help you stay safe, but also deliver an optimal outcome. 

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    A Beautiful, Slim, Trim Tummy Can Be Yours at our Surgical Center in Houston, TX

    Dr. Courtney employs effective techniques to achieve optimal outcomes for his patients, earning recognition as one of six outstanding surgeons by The American Society of Plastic Surgery. Many patients appreciate his relaxed and approachable personality, which adds to their comfort during the process.

    All surgical procedures are performed in our AAAHC-certified ambulatory surgery center (ASC) in Houston, TX. This state-of-the-art facility provides exceptional outpatient surgical care while ensuring that patients avoid surgical site infections. Meeting hospital standards, our surgery center prioritizes patient safety and comfort, making your experience as seamless as possible. With Dr. Courtney’s expertise and our advanced facility, you can look forward to a beautiful, slim, and trim tummy that enhances your confidence and quality of life.

    Dr. Courtney Plastic Surgery
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    Tummy Tuck FAQ

    What should I bring to the surgical center on the day of my tummy tuck?

    Bring comfortable clothing, any prescribed medications, and a responsible adult to accompany you home after the procedure.

    What can I do to minimize scarring post-surgery?

    Follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions, keep the incision clean and moisturized, and avoid sun exposure to promote optimal healing.

    How does abdominoplasty affect my belly button? Will it change its appearance?

    During an abdominoplasty, Dr. Courtney carefully repositions the belly button for a natural appearance. While some patients may notice changes, a skilled surgeon can ensure that the belly button looks proportionate and aesthetically pleasing post-surgery.

    Can I get a tummy tuck if I plan to have more children?

    It's generally advised to wait until after having children, as future pregnancies can impact the results of the surgery.

    Can I combine an abdominoplasty with other procedures?

    Yes, many patients opt to combine abdominoplasty with liposuction, breast lifts, or other body contouring procedures for comprehensive results with one recovery period.

    Are You Coming From Out of Town? We Can Help!

    We are happy to assist you with planning your stay in Houston. In addition to providing detailed directions to our offices, we often help arrange not only hotel accommodations and ground transportation, but also nursing services and post-operative support. You may also need food and beverage delivery or recommendations for local dining and recreation.

    Rest assured that Dr. Courtney and his team want your procedures to go smoothly from the moment you first arrive in Houston to your departure. If you have specific questions about what is involved in tummy tuck surgery, please do not hesitate to call, or contact us using our online form today. We look forward to your call or visit.

    Real People. Real Results.

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