There are many ways to approach tummy tuck surgery, and we choose the treatment that best fits your body type. We determine the right treatment plan based on how much extra skin needs to be moved and whether the muscle separation is above or below the belly button.
This is a frequent choice for parents. It addresses the entire abdomen from the ribs down to the pubic hairline. We repair the muscles and reposition the belly button to ensure the final look stays proportional to your body.
For those who have a small amount of sagging skin or a mini tummy pooch exclusively below the navel, a mini tummy tuck might be the right fit. This uses a smaller incision and usually keeps the belly button in its original spot, focusing strictly on the lower abdomen.
If you have experienced significant weight loss and have remaining skin that continues around to your flanks or hips, an extended version allows the surgeon to contour the sides of the waistline as well.
In our office, we see how body contouring changes how patients feel in their clothes. Cosmetic procedure goals vary, but the benefits of removing fat and excess skin are universal:
Many of our Mont Belvieu patients choose to combine a tummy tuck with other forms of plastic surgery, often called a Mommy Makeover. Since you are already in the operating room, it can be very efficient to address breast surgery, like breast augmentation, a breast lift, or breast reduction, at the same time.
Dr. Sukkar often uses liposuction during a tummy tuck to remove fatty tissue deep in the flanks, ensuring the stomach looks toned and fit.
A good candidate is a healthy person at a stable weight. The reality is that tummy tuck surgery is a contouring tool, not a solution for active weight loss. We also recommend having realistic expectations and being finished with pregnancy, as future weight gain or carrying a child can stretch the muscles and skin back out.
Patient safety is our priority. During your first visit, we will conduct a physical exam and review any medical conditions. For your safety, you must stop smoking at least six weeks before and after surgery, as nicotine significantly interferes with the healing process.
Your surgical procedure takes place in our private, accredited center. You will be under general anesthesia managed by a professional team. Dr. Sukkar is very precise with the incision site, usually keeping the tummy tuck scar low enough to be hidden by a swimsuit.
We want your results to look effortless, so we spend a lot of time on the details, like making sure your belly button looks natural and not operated on. Because Dr. Sukkar has such a deep background in complex reconstructive surgery, he has the technical skill to handle even the most difficult cases while keeping the focus on a clean, aesthetic finish.
The recovery time requires patience. For the first few days, you will focus on healing the incision and managing fluid buildup. We use specialized techniques to minimize the need for traditional drainage tubes whenever possible.
While risks like blood clots or poor wound healing exist with any abdominal surgery, our team provides detailed instructions to ensure a smooth transition.
The cost of a tummy tuck depends on the complexity of the muscles being repaired and the amount of fat and skin being removed. Your total covers the plastic surgeon's fee, anesthesia, the hospital or surgery center, and all treatment follow-ups. We offer financing to help you reach your body goals.
Dr. Sam Sukkar is a leader in aesthetic surgery with over twenty years of experience. Having performed over 20,000 cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, ranging from eyelid surgery to complex breast reconstruction, his clinical approach is rooted in safety. When you meet Dr. Sukkar, you’ll see why new patients travel from across Texas for the "Sukkar Standard" of personalized care.
If you are ready to talk about how a tummy tuck can help you reach your goals, we invite you to our office for a consultation today.
Yes. In most cases, the old scar is incorporated into the new tummy tuck incision, resulting in a cleaner, flatter look.
Liposuction only removes excess fat. It cannot tighten muscles or remove extra skin. A tummy tuck is required to address sagging skin and the abdominal wall.
As long as you maintain a stable weight, the results are permanent. While aging continues, the muscles will remain repaired.
Absolutely. Combining a tummy tuck with a breast augmentation or breast lift is a very common way to achieve total body harmony in one operating room session.
From the first time you walk into The Clinic for Plastic Surgery, you’ll know that you are in a place that cares about results. Under the leadership of Dr. Sukkar, The Clinic for Plastic Surgery has become Houston’s plastic surgery center of choice. Experience the difference for yourself by scheduling a consultation today.
