Q:  I got full abdominoplasty with muscle repair and liposuction but at 8 weeks my tummy looks buldged out and it’s not at all flat and looks nothing like how it did in first few weeks. I am wondering if it is normal swelling or my muscle repair failed or is it weight gain.

A:  Thank you for the question and photos.  There are a number of reasons to see abdominal bulging after a tummy tuck including:

• Residual swelling
• Residual excess fat
• Residual abdominal wall weakness
• Pseudo-bursa or other scar tissue related process
• Other

Since you are still early following your tummy tuck it may certainly be swelling that is the source of the abdominal fullness.  I would follow you plastic surgeons recommendations at this time.  I would suspect that compression and time will be very helpful to allow the residual swelling to subside.

Good luck with the remainder of your recovery.

Dr. Remus Repta

I have had the fortune to be able to help a handful of women and men when no one would.  Over the last nine years in practice there have been countless men and women who have needed a tummy tuck but who were turned away for being plus size or overweight.  These patients and the plus size tummy tuck procedures that they underwent made me realize just how powerful and effective a plus size tummy tuck procedure can be.

Q:  So, what exactly is a plus size tummy tuck?

A:  A plus size tummy tuck is a procedure that is designed to tighten, flatten, and reshape the abdomen and waist for patients that are overweight.

In the ideal world, every tummy tuck patient would be at their goal/ideal weight but we do not live in an ideal world and many people struggle to get to their goal weight.  What’s also important to understand is that a plus size tummy tuck often leads to an increase in lifestyle activity and sometimes in diet changes.  The combination of all of these things together often leads to weight loss that would not have otherwise occurred.

Q: Is there a size that is too big for a plus size tummy tuck?

A:  This is a great and important question.  Patients that have an abundance of fat but not much excess loose skin are better candidates for large volume liposuction as opposed to a plus size tummy tuck.  The plus size tummy tuck procedure can be performed at a second stage, however, if needed after the large volume liposuction.

In summary, there is always an answer and a solution for just about any type of body.  The key is to be creative and find the solution that works the best for each patient.

All the best,

Dr. Remus Repta

Overweight Tummy Tuck

There are many patients who need tummy tuck surgery, but who may be overweight.  The good news is that when designed and performed properly, tummy tuck surgery for the oversight patient may be a wonderful option to help contour the abdomen and waist.

There are two classic reasons that overweight patients may think they are not good candidates:
1) concern about the final result
2) concern about healing issues

While these two issues are important to consider prior to surgery, carefully designing and performing the tummy tuck surgery for an overweight patient can create a wonderful result while doing so safely.

One of the most important aspects of getting a great tummy tuck result for the overweight patient is performing liposuction at the same time or prior to the tummy tuck. Doing so allows the needed thinning of the abdominal tissue which an overweight patient truly needs to get a great result.  Proper discussion about the risks and consequences of doing liposuction at the same time as the tummy tuck should be held.  When designed and performed properly, the chances of getting a great overweight tummy tuck result are increased and the chances of wound healing are kept low.

While having a patient at their goal weight prior to having a tummy tuck is the ideal situation, this is often not realistic.  Many patients struggle to lose weight and in fact, have their excess abdominal fat and skin as a source of limitation to proper exercise activity.  It is frequently the case that overweight tummy tuck patient go on to lose additional weight after their tummy tuck surgery.  Because of this, the overweight tummy tuck surgery can be a great way to kick-start the process of a more active and healthier lifestyle.

Learn more about Overweight Tummy Tucks»

Pulling through the after-effects of surgery with grace and ease is the focus of this week’s blog.  Surgery stresses the body, and the more invasive the procedure, the more time and energy you need to set aside to bring your body back into balance.  Fortunately, there are numerous natural tools that can assist you in regaining the good health and vitality that you deserve.  Abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, requires careful attention and TLC to ensure you recover quickly and with minimal discomfort.  Below are some guidelines to follow so recovery from a tummy tuck procedure can be a breeze.

Once you have come out of surgery, there has never been a more important time to incorporate clean eating into your routine than now.  Slowly add broths, fruits, veggies and protein shakes into your diet.  Stay away from processed foods that are filled with chemicals since this will be an added stress to your system.  Drink lots and lots of water, too.  This will flush out toxins and will keep you getting up to make your way to the toilet often.  Gentle movement like walking to the bathroom from the moment you return home will facilitate blood flow and will speed up the healing process.

Ginger tea is amazing for soothing postoperative nausea—a condition that can be triggered by anesthesia. Clinical trials have shown that ginger is effective and safe for calming a queasy stomach and some say is just as potent as commonly prescribed anti-nausea medications.

Take a lot of Vitamin C (3000mg/day), Vitamin A (10,000 IU/day), and drink green tea in copious amounts to strengthen your immune system and build up antioxidant stores which can be severely depleted in surgery.  All three of these nutrients will help combat free radical damage induced by medications used in surgery, and will help your immune system fight off opportunistic pathogens that can wreak havoc on a worn-out body post-surgery.  Because 70% of our immune system resides in our gut, taking a strong probiotic daily after your tummy tuck will provide a barrier that will prevent the likelihood of infection.

Bromelain and papain are proteolytic enzymes found in pineapple which help reduce gas and boating post-surgery and act as powerful anti-inflammatory agents.  Papain is also found in papaya and contains components comparable to pepsin.  These enzymes are essential to the digestive processes in the body, and after a tummy tuck, are instrumental for calming down inflammation and building energy stores.

Arnica is a homeopathic remedy that has become more mainstream in the world of cosmetic surgery and aesthetic medicine for minimizing bruising, reducing swelling, and controlling pain.  It is a necessity for any medicine cabinet for soothing bumps, bangs, and bruises anywhere on the body and is completely safe for children and elderly patients.  Another essential homeopathic remedy for helping to heal surgical wounds post-surgery is Staphysagria.  This is THE main remedy for lacerated tissues due to cutting in surgery and will help reduce sensitivity to the incision and will speed up the healing process immensely.  If vomiting is a problem after surgery, Phosphorus is a homeopathic remedy that will soothe the stomach much like drinking ginger tea.  The amazing thing about homeopathic remedies is that they are inexpensive and they are completely safe and will not interact with pharmaceutical medications.

I can’t stress enough the importance of rest after a tummy tuck.  Resting allows the body to mobilize all of its reserves to aid in carrying out processes that will help healing.  Even though it is a great idea to get up once an hour while awake to do a slow and careful walk to the bathroom, give yourself plenty of time to sleep, too.  This will help your body recover quickly so you will be back to your strong self quickly.

Call 855-377-3782 and schedule consultations with Dr. Repta for surgical procedures and Dr. Collins for post-surgical support today.

There are important benefits to undergoing a plus size tummy tuck. You can address the effects of time, stress, pregnancy, or weight gain on your body. This surgical procedure can be a significant first step towards a healthier lifestyle, one of the most exciting aspects of a plus size tummy tuck. A plus size tummy tuck can be an important step in your journey to a better, healthier life, helping you to regain self-confidence and motivation.

A Healthier, Happier Life

Weight gain is typically a slow process. As the years pass, more and more fat will be stored in the abdomen. A tummy tuck addresses the following physical issues:

• Saggy, stretched abdominal skin
• Excess fat and tissue
• Split or stretched abdominal muscles
• Stretch marks located on the lower abdomen
• Unsightly tummy bulge, limiting clothing choices

Boosting Your Self-Confidence

A plus size tummy tuck can dramatically alter your appearance, removing excess skin and stubborn fat that no diet and exercise can resolve. By tightening and toning the abdomen and removing excess skin, fat, and tissue, you will boost your confidence in your appearance, and in yourself. Imagine being free of a bulging tummy zone, and restoring a fit, firm, abdomen? With the help of Dr. Repta, among the finest board-certified plastic surgeons to perform body contouring on plus sized women, you can enjoy a happier, more confident life ahead.

Increase Your Activity Level

By removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscle structure, you will be physically more able to engage in higher intensity exercise and activity. Often people with excess skin and fat on the abdomen find exercise difficult, with the added weight increasing strain during exercise. After a plus size tummy tuck you will find working out is easier and you will be more capable of engaging in a healthy level of exercise and activity.

Gain the Motivation to Exercise and Eat Well

Once you’ve lost weight and rejuvenated your figure, you will want to maintain or enhance your restored figure. Your trimmer, firmer abdomen can be a powerful motivation to continue to eat better and exercise more frequently. Adopting a healthy diet and a regular exercise routine will naturally boost your metabolism, give you more energy, and enhance your overall wellbeing and life experience.

Feel Healthier

By eating healthier foods, exercising more often, and continuing to shed excess pounds, you will feel stronger, more vital, and more attractive. Excess abdominal fat can be harmful to your health and can lead to many dangerous health conditions. Starting on the road to a healthier life with a trimmer abdomen, you feel rejuvenated – both emotionally and physically.

The Importance of Self-Care and Loving Your Body

Your body helps you experience life and staying in shape is a critical aspect of self-care. Being unable to engage in activities due to excess weight or feeling isolated or uncomfortable due to your appearance often leads to withdrawing from healthy activities, a vicious cycle. Taking a step to turn your life around with a plus size tummy tuck can lead to improved self-discipline and real-world positive changes, physically and emotionally.

Choosing to love your body and to get yourself on track towards better health can begin with a plus size tummy tuck. Regaining a body that is more capable of the activities you once loved and feeling more confident can be a life-changing, positive, empowering experience. Dr. Repta can help.

Click here to learn more about plus size tummy tucks

The post The Benefits of a Plus Size Tummy Tuck appeared first on Scottsdale Tummy Tuck Blog.

Abdominoplasty is recommended for individuals at a stable, healthy weight who are concerned about sagging belly skin, excess fat in the midsection, and separated six-pack muscles. The surgery can help offset physical changes that result from the aging process, pregnancy, or massive weight loss.

It’s important that anyone undergoing a tummy tuck has realistic expectations for their results based on their private consultation with their plastic surgeon. One of the most common questions patients have for their doctors is whether their pant size will change after the procedure. Below we will discuss the implications of a tummy tuck and how the treatment can affect your wardrobe.

Who Qualifies for a Tummy Tuck?

Since a tummy tuck is not a method for losing weight, patients need to be at a stable weight before the surgery. They also need to have maintained that healthy weight for at least six months. Those who follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen but who have not seen adequate changes in their stomach will strongly benefit from the procedure. After surgery, patients need to avoid weight fluctuations that might interfere with their cosmetic results.

During your consultation, your provider will investigate whether you are mentally and physically healthy enough to undergo a surgical procedure. You will undergo medical tests to make sure you are free from any uncontrolled medical concerns such as hypertension or bleeding disorders.

Changing Pant Sizes After Abdominoplasty

While losing weight is not recommended after a tummy tuck, dropping a size or two in pant size is a separate issue. Most patients typically purchase oversized clothing to hide their stomachs before surgery. Since the tummy will be flat and toned after abdominoplasty, patients can enjoy clothes that actually fit for once. They may even drop down a few sizes after the surgery due to improved definition and reshaping in the midsection. Additionally, patients may experience enhanced motivation to work out and eat better after seeing the amazing results of a tummy tuck.

Adding Liposuction to Your Tummy Tuck

For those who really want to experience a transformation, liposuction can exponentially enhance the results of a tummy tuck and allow the patient to drop several sizes in clothing. Liposuction can remove stubborn, unwanted fat that does not respond to workouts at the gym or a change in diet. The procedure allows the surgeon to not only adjust the belly but to actually sculpt the physique you desire. During your consultation, you and the doctor will confer on your treatment plan and make sure that it reaches your goals.

Managing Expectations

When undergoing a tummy tuck, it’s important to know that the results can take 6-9 months to reveal themselves. Bruising and swelling after surgery can obscure the flattened abdominal contours and make you question whether the procedure actually had an effect. Wearing a compression garment can help reduce swelling and keep your newly sculpted contours intact.

What is the Takeaway?

While a tummy tuck is categorically not a method for losing weight, it can be an excellent procedure for reshaping the midsection and achieving the slim, flat, toned tummy of your dreams. A side effect of the surgery is usually a better fit in clothing, allowing the patient to choose pants that hug the figure instead of obscuring it. By adding liposuction, your plastic surgeon can remove excess fat, further reducing your waist size and allowing for the potential of a smaller pant size.

As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to have realistic expectations and to factor in the recovery process, understanding that full results after abdominoplasty may not be evident for up to 9 months due to swelling and bruising.

The post Will My Pant Size Change After a Tummy Tuck? appeared first on Scottsdale Tummy Tuck.

For people struggling with stubborn fat that hides their natural contours, tummy tuck surgery is an optimal solution. By trimming away excess fat and tightening the lower-level abdominal muscles, tummy tucks can elicit dramatic body sculpting results. Still, there is a pervasive question surrounding this procedure: Should you lose weight before a tummy tuck?

Generally speaking, ideal candidates for cosmetic surgeries are already close to their goal weight and simply want to give their bodies a more contoured, streamlined look. As people come in varying shapes and sizes, every individual’s goal weight will be different.

However, it can be said that a BMI of 35 or above is problematic, as it puts the patient at risk for infection and other life-threatening complications post-surgery. Always putting safety before reward, physicians will often recommend against surgery if they feel that the likelihood of complications is too high.

Determining Your Ideal Weight

Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can go a long way in getting you to the ideal weight. In general, most patients have a stable weight range that they can manage to maintain, and this is the best time to get a tummy tuck. This is due to the fact that dramatic weight fluctuations could have an effect on your results in the future. Staying near your ideal weight is vital for the longevity of results and long-term satisfaction.

The first step toward getting to the right place is determining your ideal weight. Most doctors recommend that you be within at least 10 to 15 pounds of that weight before undergoing surgery. If you are 20 pounds or more away from this weight, it is recommended that you delay the procedure until you get closer to it. This enables the doctors to create an accurate plan for your procedure that will attain the best results possible. Beyond that, it decreases the likelihood that you will need more treatments in the future.

The Danger of Weight Fluctuations

Dramatic weight fluctuations after your surgery can have a negative impact on the results. Both weight gains and weight loss can cause stretching of the abdominal muscles, undoing the progress made from the procedure. Patients will need additional treatments to reinstate the changes that were previously created.

Pregnancy is also an issue, as the stretching of the abdomen and skin can compromise the contours refined by the procedure. Women that are planning to have children should take this into consideration before undergoing the procedure.

What is the Takeaway?

Overall, people seeking a tummy tuck procedure should consult with an experienced physician such as Dr. Repta, to come up with a treatment plan. Getting a proper assessment of your current physique and determining where you want to be aesthetically are vital to the surgical process. With the right guidance, it is totally possible to achieve the look you want and enjoy a wider range of wardrobe choices along with enhanced self-confidence.

The post SHOULD I LOSE WEIGHT BEFORE A TUMMY TUCK? appeared first on Scottsdale Tummy Tuck.

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is becoming one of the most popular procedures for men and women with a high BMI or body/mass index. A tummy tuck removes hanging skin and abdominal fat and tightens abdominal muscles that have separated or weakened due to excessive weight gain. People with stretch marks are thrilled to discover that most of these disappear with the removal of excess skin.

While it is preferred that patients have reached their optimum weight before surgery, patients with a high BMI can benefit from a “plus-size tummy tuck.” Abdominoplasty can eliminate excess skin and fat to attain a flatter stomach and a more traditionally attractive figure, providing a confidence and self-esteem boost for people with those aesthetic goals.

BMI Measures Your Weight Against Your Height

BMI can be used as a screening tool but does not diagnose an individual’s body fatness or health. This screening method categorizes a person’s weight in the following ways:

• Underweight
• Healthy weight
• Overweight
• Obesity

It is important to note that while the connection between BMI and body fatness is evident, even if two people have the same BMI, their level of body fatness may differ. So, the accuracy of BMI as an indicator of your body fatness should be determined by your surgeon during your initial tummy tuck consultation. 

You Can Get a Tummy Tuck With a High BMI

If your BMI says that you are overweight but not obese, a tummy tuck may be a good option for you. Your physical health is the most significant factor to consider with a plus-size tummy tuck. Regardless of your BMI, you must be in good health to undergo surgery without an increased risk of complications. However, if your goal is to lose significant weight, you should consider waiting on your tummy tuck. Losing a lot of weight can cause issues with excess skin, so you would likely need a revision tummy tuck if you have the initial procedure too soon.

Some other factors to consider when deciding whether a tummy tuck is right for you are:

• A tummy tuck with a high BMI will likely include additional liposuction to smooth the flanks, lower back, and abdomen
• If you can’t maintain your weight at the time of your procedure, you’ll likely regain fat in your stomach area
• While it’s safe to have children after a tummy tuck, pregnancy may ruin your results and could require revision surgery afterward
• Patients with asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, or heart disease may not be a good candidate for a tummy tuck with a high BMI

You Do Not Need to Lose Weight Before Getting a Tummy Tuck With a High BMI

While it would be ideal for each patient to be at a perfect weight before getting a tummy tuck procedure, this is unrealistic and may not even produce the best possible results. Dr. Repta has found that the tummy tuck process alone can result in improved shape and additional weight loss when designed and performed correctly. The extra weight you may struggle to lose may not prevent you from getting an excellent tummy tuck result.

If you plan on losing a significant amount of weight, delaying your tummy tuck may be reasonable to avoid residual loose skin after the weight loss. However, if the weight loss is moderate, such as 20-30 pounds, a tummy tuck can be performed. That amount of weight loss is often jump-started by the tummy tuck procedure, and the overall tummy tuck result will not be negatively affected in any way.

Dr. Repta Can Give You the Tummy Tuck of Your Dreams

Dr. Repta is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Scottsdale with many years of experience helping patients with a higher BMI achieve their body shape goals. If your weight is stable and you are in good health, he can provide a surgical plan that will safely and effectively produce ideal results.

As one of the most reputable cosmetic surgeons in Scottsdale, Dr. Repta believes in empowering his patients to make the correct decisions for themselves. Dr. Repta curates each procedure to your individual needs, ensuring that you have natural-looking results that you’re proud of.

The post Can You Get a Tummy Tuck With a High BMI? appeared first on Scottsdale Tummy Tuck.

Just as with any surgical procedure, planning for a tummy tuck, otherwise known as an abdominoplasty, is a very personal decision. Most people contemplate going through with the procedure for a long time before committing. This is due to the fact that they are excited about embracing a new version of themselves but, at the same time, anxious about the procedure itself.

When feelings of anxiety take hold, it’s important to keep in mind that proper preparation for the procedure can help ensure that everything goes smoothly. Knowing what to avoid prior to the surgery can help ease any feelings of doubt and instill the patient with confidence.

Stop Smoking

This is a common suggestion that comes with most surgical procedures. While some may feel that this advice is a form of judgment, it is actually a serious health concern that needs to be addressed. Smokers are much more likely to experience complications during surgery, such as a heart attack, stroke, shock, or even death.

Smoking contributes to vasoconstriction, or a decrease in blood flow, which makes surgical wounds less likely to seal up and heal properly. It also hampers the immune system. Naturally, these factors increase the likelihood of infections after surgery. While smoking is the main issue, chewing tobacco, nicotine vape pens, nicotine patches, and nicotine gum can all have an effect on the procedure and should be avoided, if possible.

Don’t Eat Unhealthy Foods

Patients need to be careful about what they consume before receiving a tummy tuck procedure. It goes without saying that processed foods should be avoided. This is due to the fact that they increase inflammation. Patients should also refrain from eating foods high in salt, as they lead to bloating and gas.

It is vital to eat the daily recommended amount of vegetables, grains, and protein leading up to an abdominoplasty procedure. Leafy greens are known for their ability to reduce inflammation, and protein helps by building and repairing tissues that have been damaged during the surgery. Grains and nuts are also a big help in that they stimulate new cell production in the body. The most important thing to keep note of prior to the surgery is that all of your nutritional needs are being met.

Meal prepping is also a great idea. Preparing some food ahead of time ensures that patients will not have to spend any time in the kitchen cooking. Protein shakes are also great, as they are easy to consume and pack a lot of calories.

Don’t Forget to Set Up a Proper Space

This is a pitfall that should be avoided at all costs. In the weeks following the procedure, it is vital that patients have an environment that is conducive to their healing process. Waiting until after the procedure to set this space up will put unneeded stress on the patient and could potentially hamper the healing process. For this reason, it is highly recommended that patients figure these things out beforehand.

Moving around is going to be difficult, especially during the first few days. For this reason, it is recommended that patients place any essential items close to the bed (ideally on a nightstand). Bottles of water, food, remote controls for the TV and other appliances, etc. should all be kept within reach of the bed. Additionally, pillow support for the head and knees is vital, so keep them within reach.

Additionally, it is recommended that patients create a little “happy place” for themselves. This is a place where they will be comfortable sitting for extended periods of time. Ideally, this consists of a recliner chair with a side table within arm’s reach. Just as with the bed, having books, an iPad or laptop, snacks, and the TV remote nearby is highly recommended.

Additionally, it is a good idea to set out a few comfortable outfits to wear for the first few days. This will make it easier for the patient to get dressed and avoid any unnecessary bending over or flexing.

Avoid Weight Fluctuations Ahead of Time

It is recommended that patients be at or very close to their ideal weight before going in for surgery. It is important not to put this off, as weight fluctuations down the line can affect the results of the procedure. Getting a weight assessment from a doctor and using a BMI chart to determine the ideal BMI (body mass index) is a great way to find the patient’s ideal weight. Once these have been figured out, patients can start their weight loss journey.

Avoid Certain Medications

As with any surgical procedure, patients will be asked to temporarily discontinue the use of certain medications. These may include aspirin, Ibuprofen, Motrin, Advil, or any other anti-inflammatory medications that are known to increase bleeding. It is allowed, however, that patients take Tylenol up until the day before surgery, as this can help mitigate pain.

Any and all herbal medications, supplements, and diet pills need to be avoided as these may also lead to an increase in bleeding. In the event that patients contract a cold, fever, flu, or sore throat before their surgery, they must notify the doctor right away in order to determine if the procedure should be rescheduled. With the risk of Covid these days, this is more important than ever.

What is the Takeaway?

To reiterate, it is vital that patients stop smoking, avoid processed foods, set up a proper recovery space for themselves, avoid weight fluctuations, and adhere to all instructions from their doctors regarding medications. Above all, it is recommended that patients have a helper, or someone who can assist them in the first days of their recovery. Having a positive recovery is vital to achieving positive results.

The post 5 Things to Avoid Before a Tummy Tuck appeared first on Scottsdale Tummy Tuck.

What is an apron belly? After having children, many women experience fat tissue and excess skin that hangs down from the abdominal area, varying in size and length. This tissue remains from your previous pregnant body shape, lingering despite almost any attempt to resolve it. Often called “apron belly” because it looks like an apron is hanging from your waist, this cosmetic concern commonly develops after pregnancy. Its medical term is pannus stomach.

After pregnancy, is it possible to get rid of an apron belly?

The answer is yes! It is absolutely possible, even if a healthy diet and regular exercise haven’t been effective. Many women resort to hiding their apron belly under baggy tops or dresses, feeling that the excess tissue will never go away. However hard it might seem to get rid of an apron belly on your own, there are treatment options that can get rid of it and help restore your body contours and desired shape. 

What are the treatment options to get rid of an apron belly?

There are both non-surgical and surgical options that can be used to address apron belly. Non-surgical options can help reduce fat deposits, but they will not completely eliminate apron belly the way that surgical procedures do. Surgical and non-surgical options include the following:

Non-surgical options to reduce apron belly

Non-surgical options can be used to help reduce some of the fat tissues that have built up in the area. These may include the following:

• Laser body sculpting treatments 

Laser body sculpting slims your body by melting fat without requiring significant downtime. There are a number of different laser treatments that can achieve these results. A laser is typically used to melt and destroy fat cells and can be combined with other energies, such as ultrasound, to help burst fat cells. 

• CoolSculpting body contouring

CoolSculpting uses the power of cooling technology to freeze and destroy fat 

cells. Intense cooling is directed to the fat tissues, which freeze faster than surrounding tissues. The fat is destroyed and flushed out of the body while the surrounding tissues are left unharmed. CoolSculpting is completely non-invasive and requires no downtime or recovery period.

Surgical options to eliminate apron belly

Surgical options are highly effective in treating apron belly, leaving your abdominal area flat and sculpted. Options include the following:

• Panniculectomy
  This surgery contours the walls of the stomach, eliminating the hanging skin and fat below the abdomen. This procedure can be combined with a tummy tuck for the most optimal and dramatic results.

• Plus size tummy tuck 

This surgical procedure is the most effective to eliminate an apron belly and contour the physique. This surgery tightens weakened abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat. Once the excess fat and skin of the lower area are removed, the upper skin of the abdominal area is pulled downward and secured, creating a firm, flat, sculpted contour.

Why is it so hard (or impossible) to get rid of apron belly on your own?

Sometimes, diet and exercise will help reduce apron belly, but this isn’t always possible to achieve on your own. This is because the apron belly is an internal issue. During pregnancy, the body expands to accommodate your growing baby and subsequent weight gain. The surrounding area and fat around your internal organs expand, creating extra fat deposits in the flap below your abdominal muscles that lie in front of your intestines. The result is a sagging “apron” of skin and fat that hangs down from the lower abdominal area. This can usually only be effectively addressed with surgery.

How does a plus size tummy tuck eliminate an apron belly?

If you have a high BMI, you are considered “plus-size.” Traditionally, this has meant that you must lose weight in order to have a tummy tuck. However, Dr. Repta created the Plus Size Tummy Tuck®, a breakthrough surgical procedure that is specifically designed to help treat women with higher BMIs who are dealing with excess skin and fat or apron belly. 

The plus size tummy tuck modifies the way liposuction and tissue removal are performed during surgery, but it achieves the same benefits–a flat, firmer abdominal area without sagging, hanging skin. And the newfound confidence that comes with that!

What happens after a tummy tuck? What is the recovery like?

A tummy tuck requires significant downtime. Surgical drains are placed to prevent fluids from building up and to help facilitate the healing process. These will be removed after about one week, and your downtime will last for about 2-3 weeks. You will need to rest during this period of time–no exercise, work, sex, or other physical activities. After this period, most patients can return to sedentary work, but it’s important to avoid any activities that could exert you overmuch for at least 4-6 weeks. You’ll need to focus on rest and recuperation and take it easy until your body is fully healed.

Why is it important to get rid of an apron belly after pregnancy?

Other than the cosmetic concern and embarrassment that apron belly can cause, apron belly can cause health complications, some quite serious, for women after pregnancy, making it very important to address this issue. Remember, it is possible to get rid of an apron belly and feel better about your appearance, regain your confidence, and improve your health! The health risks associated with an apron belly may include the following:

• Heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Cancer (such as ovarian cancer)
• Skin irritation, infections, and rashes
• Increased sweating and hygiene concerns

Why choose Dr. Repta to address your apron belly after pregnancy?

Dr. Repta is an ideal choice for treating apron belly. He has extensive experience performing this specialized surgery and created the groundbreaking Plus Size Tummy Tuck to help a wider range of women who suffer from apron belly after pregnancy. As a leader and innovator in the field of plastic surgery, Dr. Repta has a reputation as one of the most talented plastic surgeons in the nation. He is a board-certified plastic surgeon who truly cares for his patients and dedications his attention and skill to ensure they achieve the results they want. You can relax with Dr. Repta, knowing you’re in the hands of a truly gifted professional who will safely guide you through the process and do everything in his power to achieve your desired outcome. Please schedule your consultation today to meet with Dr. Repta and learn more about getting rid of your apron belly.

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