How to Choose the Right Type of Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

We are all familiar with the health benefits of exercise, but the main reason many of us work out is because of its effect on our appearance. There is something deeply satisfying about seeing visible results from our hard work at the gym. Yet for some, those desired body changes just don’t happen, even after much diligence and patience. If you feel like you have tried everything from crunches to no-sugar diets and still can’t get rid of that flabby belly, you may want to consider a cosmetic procedure. But how do you decide on the right procedure for you?

Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Tummy Procedures

You’ve seen the advertisements telling you how much you need the latest non-surgical treatment to tighten your skin and get rid of that stubborn belly fat. And, they say you can have it all without any surgery. Cities across the country that have clinics offering radiofrequency, ultrasound, and cryolipolysis treatments to tighten your skin or help you lose fat. Non-surgical options can seem attractive at first glance. But things that seem too good to be true usually are. For the perfect candidate, non-surgical treatments might be able to give the results they advertise, but there are a few things you should think about before you make the final decision between one of those options and a tummy tuck in Lubbock.

Tummy Tuck in Lubbock: The Only Complete Treatment for Sagging Belly Skin

Excess skin around the abdomen can be the result of pregnancy, significant weight loss, or genetics. Non-surgical procedures can reduce fat and help firm the skin. But even with multiple treatments, moderate or severe sagging cannot be corrected. A traditional tummy tuck is still the tried and true option to remove sagging, excess skin from around your abdomen.

Non-surgical treatments are not patient-specific options. Results from these treatments can be unpredictable as each person responds to the procedure differently. A highly trained surgeon will carefully tailor a tummy tuck in Lubbock to address the specific needs of the patient. Surgical results are more predictable, and patient satisfaction is higher with a traditional tummy tuck. The advertisements with perfect models do not give the full story on non-surgical tummy tuck alternatives.

Not All Tummy Tucks are Created Equal

A tummy tuck is the plastic surgery procedure that removes saggy, excessive skin around your tummy area. While it can be combined with liposuction, this procedure is not a weight loss treatment. Patients need to have realistic expectations and have clear communication with their board-certified surgeon about the procedure, recovery, and expected results. A tummy tuck is not a one-size-fits all procedure: talk to your doctor about which of the three forms of tummy tuck surgery will work best for you.

Mini Tummy Tuck

This type of tummy tuck in Lubbock is often referred to as the “scarless tummy tuck.” The incision for this procedure is relatively small compared to a standard tummy tuck because it removes less skin. This procedure is the best choice for individuals with that small pooch below the belly button that resists diet and exercise. The surgery is done with an incision in the lower abdominal wall that reaches the navel. Unlike other versions of tummy tucks, the navel itself typically does not need to be repositioned during a mini tummy tuck. After making the incisions, the surgeon will remove extra skin and tighten the abdominal muscles. Because this procedure is a less invasive plastic surgery, patients typically experience a quick recovery. Patients are usually back to their everyday activities within a week’s time and can manage their pain with over-the-counter pain medications.

Standard Tummy Tuck

Like the mini tummy tuck, the traditional tummy tuck is recommended for men and women in good physical health. Unlike the mini tuck, however, individuals seeking this surgery have a more sizable amount of skin to remove. Patients with weakened abdominal muscles due to past pregnancies or who have experienced significant weight loss will benefit from a standard tummy tuck in Lubbock. This surgery requires a larger incision, which runs in a straight line between the hip bones. Your doctor can suggest if you liposuction would be a beneficial addition to remove extra fat.

With a larger portion of the skin removed during this procedure, the belly button is repositioned. Patients get back on their feet and into regular routines by 2 to 4 weeks after surgery. It’s important to rest as much as possible in the first few weeks and not try to jump right back into your life’s activities too quickly.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck addresses surgical needs beyond that of the standard tummy tuck. A patient with excess fat and skin around the abdomen as well as their hips and the sides of their lower back, would benefit from the extended tummy tuck approach. The incision for this procedure is longer than for the traditional tummy tuck in Lubbock, covering all the areas being addressed – the abdomen, hips, and lower back. This procedure is nearly always paired with liposuction for better contouring results. Again, the abdominal muscles are tightened, targeted skin is excised, and the navel is repositioned. The more extensive your surgery, the longer your recovery time will be. Always give yourself plenty of time to allow your body to heal properly.

Have Confidence in Your Tummy Tuck With Dr. Jane Rowley

The more information you have about your plastic surgery options, the better decisions you can make for your body. Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading plastic surgeon in Lubbock who takes the time to explain your options for a tummy tuck in Lubbock along with recovery and result expectations thoroughly. If you are tired of carrying around that extra pooch of saggy skin in your abdominal area, call our office to schedule a no-obligation consultation with Dr. Rowley today.

A Complete Guide to Getting a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

There is no substitute for feeling great about the way you look. It’s human nature to want to look your best, and more often than not, it’s not about vanity. It’s about confidence. When you feel confident about your outward appearance, it has positive effects on your inner self. As we age or experience pregnancies or weight loss, our bodies are changed in permanent ways. And, flabby excess skin will not go away not matter how much you diet or exercise.

When you carry around an extra load of saggy skin, it can affect your self-esteem as you become increasingly unhappy about the contour of your body. If you feel frustrated when your best efforts don’t yield the results you want, it might be time to consider a tummy tuck in Lubbock. A tummy tuck isn’t a weight loss surgery but rather a procedure to remove excess skin and improve your quality of life. It is a great support to your weight loss goals and healthy habits.  

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure for removing up to 10 pounds of skin from a patient’s abdominal area. Weakened and separated abdominal muscles are tightened and repaired during surgery as well. Tummy tucks are also often paired with liposuction to further enhance the contouring effects.

Things To Consider Before Your Surgery

A Tummy tuck is a major surgery and should be considered carefully with plenty of education and counsel from Dr. Jane Rowley. During your preliminary evaluation with Dr. Rowley, she will prepare you for what to expect, and ensure your health and body are right for plastic surgery in Lubbock. Plan to discuss the following topics:

  • Your weight – Tummy tucks don’t require a certain number on the scale, but you should be close to your goal weight. It is important that you are able to maintain a stable weight to keep your surgical results intact.
  • Your eating habits – A healthy and sustainable diet is essential for a healthy recovery and lasting results.
  • Whether you smoke – If you do, consider quitting or make a plan to stop for a while because nicotine can interfere with the healing process. Expect to refrain from smoking, nicotine patches, and nicotine gum for several weeks before and after the surgery.

What Happens During a Tummy Tuck?

Surgery is performed with the use of general anesthetics. A standard tummy tuck in Lubbock begins with a horizontal incision running between the hip bones. The plastic surgeon lifts the skin and tightens the abdominal muscles underneath. The extra skin is removed and the navel is repositioned to match the new shape of your tummy. Surgery is wrapped up with the closure of incisions.

Tummy tucks can address varying degrees of hanging skin; some people’s excess skin is only beneath the belly button and others have flab that extends all the way around their back. Depending on how extensive your surgery is, it can take anywhere from one to five hours. You will need a driver to take you home.

Planning For Recovery

You should not spend your first night alone, make sure you have someone to help you throughout the night. Your incision will be stitched and bandaged. It is important that you follow Dr. Rowley’s specific care instructions to ensure a healthy recovery. Moving will be tough during your recovery. Plan on wearing loose-fitting, comfortable clothing. Make sure your phone is in reach if you need it. A hand-held shower head and bathroom chair are ideal.

Plan for several weeks of recovery, and take off plenty of time from work for an uninterrupted recovery time. Too much activity following the surgery before you are completely healed can complicate your recovery. Give you body the time it needs to rest and heal.

Look and Feel Better With a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

Patients who have lost significant amounts of weight can feel happy about the weight loss but discouraged about the saggy stomach skin that is left behind. Getting rid of that extra skin gives your body the flatter tummy you had hoped to have after your weight loss. A tummy tuck will strengthen your body’s core and improve your posture. Extreme weight loss or c-section surgeries can lead to a lapse in muscle control that can lead to hernias. A tummy tuck in Lubbock can also repair ventral hernias and improve bladder control. The procedure is about more than just flattening your belly – it’s a surgery for repair and healing.

The Gift of Confidence

Excess belly skin can be an emotional and physical annoyance that can damage self-confidence. As this holiday season approaches, give yourself the gift of confidence as you move forward in your health, wellness, and appearance efforts. Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading plastic surgeon in Lubbock who carefully discusses the options that best match the cosmetic goals of her patients. Meet with Dr. Rowley to learn about options for plastic surgery in Lubbock that are right for your needs. At Rowley Plastic Surgery, you can feel confident knowing you are in good hands. Contact our office today for a no-obligation consultation.

Look and Feel Better with a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck isn’t a weight loss surgery but a procedure to remove excess skin and improve your quality of life. It is a great support to your weight loss and health efforts. When you carry around an extra load of saggy skin, you can feel saggy yourself and progressively unhappy about the contour of your body. Age, past pregnancies, and weight loss affect your body in permanent ways. And, saggy, excess skin will not go away not matter how much you diet or exercise.

 

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

 

Abdominoplasty, referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure for removing up to 10 pounds of skin from a patient’s abdominal area. The weakened and separated abdominal muscles can be tightened and repaired during surgery as well. Tummy tucks are also often paired with liposuction for a dramatic contouring effect.

 

More Than Smaller Jeans?

 

Patients who have lost significant amounts of weight can feel happy about the weight loss but discouraged about the saggy stomach skin that is left behind. Getting rid of that extra skin gives your body the flatter look you had hoped to have with your weight loss. A tummy tuck will strengthen your body’s core and improve your posture. Extreme weight loss or c-section surgeries can lead to a lapse in muscle control that can lead to hernias. A tummy tuck can also repair ventral hernias and improve bladder control.
Excess skin can be an emotional and physical annoyance leading to both lowered self-confidence and skin infections. In this new year, give yourself the gift of confidence and progression as you move forward in your health, wellness, and appearance efforts. Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading plastic surgeon in Lubbock who carefully discusses option and procedures that best match the cosmetic goals of her patients. Come into our Lubbock office where you know you are in good hands for a personal consultation. rowleyplasticsurgery.com

Lubbock Plastic Surgery Can Give You the Tummy You Want

Having confidence in the way we look can feel like an uphill battle, especially when it comes to our midsections. Pregnancy, age, and significant weight loss can all contribute to belly flab that can be hard to erase. An active lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise helps to control weight; however, it does not always get rid of the extra fat and skin on the stomach. Don’t give up on those healthy habits, but try not to get down when they don’t do much for your tummy. A tummy tuck (otherwise known as abdominoplasty) is the Lubbock plastic surgery that helps men and women overcome their belly bulge and gain renewed confidence in their appearance.

The best patient is a well-informed one. Learning all you can about the procedure will help you understand the process as well as what to expect for your recovery and results. Here is our list of things you need to know about tummy tucks before you commit to plastic surgery.

The Right Candidate

Just because you struggle with belly flab does not mean a tummy tuck is right for you. Generally healthy men and women with realistic expectations make the best candidates. Women who may still want to have children in the future should wait to have the surgery until they are past their childbearing years. It is also important that you are able to maintain a stable weight, as fluctuations on the scale can undo the results of your tummy tuck.

Tummy Tucks are Not for Weight Loss

If you are looking into a tummy tuck as a means to help you drop a lot of weight, you should consider other options. Abdominoplasty is all about improving the contour of your body; it sculpts the abdomen, tightens the ab muscles, and flattens the tummy. Although you may lose a few pounds after the procedure, shedding weight is not the main goal. You should be within 10-15 pounds of your ideal weight to get the best outcome out of your tummy tuck in Lubbock.

You Will Have to Stop Smoking

Smoking poses a threat to our general health and it increases risks for Lubbock plastic surgery as well. You won’t have to quit smoking forever; Dr. Jane Rowley requires her patients to refrain from using nicotine for six weeks before surgery and two to three weeks afterwards. Nicotine restricts blood flow, and good circulation is crucial for proper wound and scar healing. Smoking also depletes the body’s oxygen levels and can put you at risk for developing blood clots and infections. It’s easier said than done, but staying away from cigarettes before and after a tummy tuck in Lubbock will be well worth the sacrifice for the sake of your health, safety, and surgical results.

Not All Tummy Tucks are Created Equal

There are several variations on the tummy tuck procedure. After your consultation, your plastic surgeon will be able to tell you which type of tummy tuck would best suit your needs based on the amount of skin and fat that needs to be removed.

  • Mini Tummy Tuck – This version of abdominoplasty is for people whose trouble spots are located mostly below the belly button. Since less tissue needs to be removed, the incision can be considerably smaller than that of a normal tummy tuck.
  • Regular Tummy Tuck – A standard tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin located above and below the belly button. The scar runs between the hip bones and is longer than that of a mini tuck. The navel will be repositioned to match the new look of your flatter tummy.
  • Extended Tummy Tuck – The extended tummy tuck is for people with hanging skin and fat that reaches beyond the front of the abdomen to the sides or back. It is the same procedure as a regular tummy tuck; the main difference is in the length of the incision.

Combining Lubbock Plastic Surgery Procedures

Liposuction is often paired with abdominoplasty to achieve dramatic results. Suctioning fat from the abdomen can exaggerate the look of droopy skin. A tummy tuck eliminates the sagging skin and tightens the abdominal muscles to create a more beautiful body contour. Women looking to regain their pre-baby figures often combine a tummy tuck with a breast procedure as part of a “mommy makeover.”

Things to Know About Recovery

You will need to rest and have lots of help with children and everyday chores for the first week or two after your surgery. Plan to take time off work for 2-3 weeks, and a return to full activity will need to wait at least 6-8 weeks. Swelling and bruising is normal for during tummy tuck recovery, so be patient with your body as it takes its time to heal. Scars will appear red during early stages of recovery but will fade and soften with time. The full results of your procedure will take months to be fully visible, but you will notice the positive change in your figure soon after surgery.

The best way to boost your odds of having a great Lubbock plastic surgery experience is to learn all you can about what to expect during and after your procedure. Clearly communicating with your doctor about the results you want will also help increase the chances of your satisfaction. Be sure to ask questions about these aspects of your experience:

  • Whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck in Lubbock
  • Creating a plan to help you stop smoking
  • What kind of tummy tuck procedure will meet your needs
  • Whether combining a tummy tuck with other procedure will benefit you
  • Your recovery time frame and how to care for your healing body

Dr. Jane Rowley is the leading board-certified plastic surgeon in Lubbock with over 20 years of experience. Call our office today to schedule your no-obligation consultation and begin your journey to greater confidence in your appearance.

How a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock Could Benefit Your Health

Physical fitness and good health are lifelong pursuits. Nothing beats looking and feeling great, but no one is born with a perfect body. Some have to work harder for these goals than others. Eating right and exercising regularly are positive steps in the right direction; however, sometimes it can be frustrating when they don’t yield the desired results. In other words, what do you do when working out and managing your diet does nothing to get rid of your belly flab?

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck in Lubbock can help you overcome the hurdles that sheer hard work and determination can’t erase. Pregnancy, the aging process, and drastic weight loss can weaken abdominal muscles and make the belly sag with loose skin. No amount of sit-ups or crunches can rid the abdomen of unsightly hanging skin. A tummy tuck  tightens muscles and trims stretched or loose skin and excess fat from the abdomen—giving the midsection of the body a flatter and more toned appearance.

This procedure can have dramatic results when paired with liposuction of the abdomen or other areas. It can also be combined with other procedures as part of a mommy makeover to restore a pre-pregnancy body contour. Beyond pregnancy situations, many patients requesting tummy tucks or liposuction wish to trim loose skin after experiencing extreme weight loss in a short period of time.

Medical Benefits of Abdominoplasty

Most patients seek out Lubbock plastic surgery to enhance their appearance and feel better about their bodies; but the advantages of a tummy tuck go far beyond what the eye can see.

Reduction of Stress Urinary Incontinence

After a vaginal delivery, women can develop a bladder control issue known as Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). Women with SUI experience uncontrollable urinary leakage when they cough, sneeze, exercise, or even laugh. A tummy tuck in Lubbock can aid in the recovery of SUI by creating a slight soft tissue bladder obstruction near the pelvic area.

The findings of a study published in the March 2018 issue of the scientific journal, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, revealed that abdominoplasty can have a positive impact on post-pregnancy complications. Of the 214 participating mothers, 42.5 percent reported urinary incontinence to be a problem before having a tummy tuck. Six weeks after their tummy tucks were performed, that number dropped to less than 2 percent.

Relief From Back Pain

The same study also showed significant improvement for women who suffered from back pain. 51% of participants lived with back pain before their tummy tucks, whereas only 9% still complained of the discomfort afterward. Tightening weak abdominal muscles enables them to better support the spine. This improves posture and can relieve certain types of back pain.

Hernia Relief

A weak abdominal wall can lead to the formation of a ventral hernia. Tummy tuck surgery can help correct weakened abdominal muscles and pressure on the skin caused by a hernia. Core-tightening abdominoplasty can also help prevent future hernias as they are less likely to occur in those with stronger abdominal muscles. A doctor may choose to combine the tummy tuck procedure with that of the hernia correction which is not only a safe approach; it can save time and money in surgery and recovery.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock?

Just because you have some of the above-mentioned medical issues does not mean abdominoplasty is right for you. Potential tummy tuck patients should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to find out if plastic surgery will safely meet their needs and expectations. To get an idea about whether you might be a good candidate, ask yourself the following questions:

  • Am I in generally good health, physically and mentally?
  • Do I have realistic expectations for my surgical results?
  • Am I finished having children?
  • Can I keep my weight stable after the procedure?
  • Does the skin around my midsection look droopy?
  • Do I have weakened stomach muscles?

A simple test you can do at home will also help clarify whether a tummy tuck is right for you. Try laying on your back and seeing what happens to your stomach bulge. If it flattens out, then excess fat is likely on the outside of your stomach muscles. A tummy tuck in Lubbock can strengthen muscles and tighten loose skin giving you a flatter, healthier abdomen. If your midsection still looks rounded when you are laying flat, your stomach bulk could be further inside your abdomen and surgery may not be the right option for you. It’s important to consult with a board-certified surgeon who takes the time to explain the procedure thoroughly and knows how accurately to assess if you will benefit from a tummy tuck. Your surgeon should also carefully listen to your aesthetic goals to understand your expectations of any Lubbock plastic surgery. Call Rowley Plastic Surgery for a free, no-obligation consultation today!

Flatten Your Belly With a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

As women, we often give our lives to our families. As mothers, this also means we give our bodies. Do you remember the you before you had kids? Back before you ever referred to your stomach as your “belly?” Even before your bra came with extra clips and hooks to accommodate someone else’s feeding schedule? It may be a bit foggy (let’s not even get started on all those sleepless nights), but try for a moment to remember how you felt about your body before any of the changes that come with having a baby—the things you took for granted. While you may not be able to do anything about those lost nights of sleep, and life chooses a lot of things for you, you also have choices. You CAN reclaim your body.

One way is with a tummy tuck in Lubbock.  Sometimes, you need more than diet and exercise to reverse the effects of pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding. The tummy tuck easily gets rid of loose skin that won’t disappear even after you reach your pre-pregnancy weight, no matter how much you diet or exercise. Many women choose to combine procedures in a “mommy makeover” to cover several areas of concern at once. In addition to a trim waist, you can consider breast procedures to regain a youthful bustline (with either a breast lift, breast augmentation, or maybe a breast reduction, if that’s right for you), and liposuction to target those troublesome fat pocket areas that have developed over time. Maybe the makeover won’t turn back the clock entirely, but it sure can help bring back the look and confidence you once had. You can be you again, the you that you remember.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a “[t]ummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin and, in most cases, restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer.” The procedure is done through a low horizontal abdominal incision. The skin is elevated off of the abdominal muscles, and it is redraped and excised. The abdominal muscles are tightened at the same time with permanent sutures in multiple layers. Often liposuction for contouring of the hips and thighs occur at the same time as the abdominoplasty. It’s typically an outpatient procedure, taking about two hours under general anesthetic. Most patients can return to work in about two to three weeks. Full activity is typically resumed after 6 to 8 weeks.

What to Consider Before a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

The first questions you have to ask yourself if you are considering a tummy tuck in Lubbock is ““Why do I want plastic surgery?” and “What am I expecting from it?”

These two factors will impact how happy you’ll be with the results as your surgeon does. It’s important to examine the motivations for plastic surgery to make sure it’s the right choice for you. From larger procedures like a mommy makeover to smaller ones like submental liposuction, all can have profound effects on your life and shouldn’t be taken lightly.

Motivation

First, look at your motivations for getting surgery. Is it something you’ve always wanted for yourself, or is it something someone close to you has been pestering you about, but not something you’re as interested in? If it’s the latter, you should think twice before proceeding. Drastic life changes should always be done because it’s something you want for yourself, not something someone else wants for you.

Expectations

At Rowley Plastic Surgery, we want you to pursue plastic surgery for the right reasons so you’ll be happy and satisfied with your results; but that’s only half of the equation. Having proper expectations is also very important to your final satisfaction. Surgery can’t make you into a different person or look like someone else in a magazine. If you expect perfection, you will be disappointed–-no one is perfect, so welcome to the club! At the same time, we can all improve, and surgery gives us options that diet and exercise can’t.  So, focus on progress and improvement, not perfection. The latter simply doesn’t exist.

These are just a couple of reasons why the initial consultation is so important. From ear-pinning to a mommy makeover, each procedure and each patient is different and have different needs to be discussed.

Benefits

It’s easy to imagine the aesthetic benefits of a tummy tuck in Lubbock, after all, you can just look at those old photos and remember what it was like to fit into that dress. What you might not know is that for women who are mothers, a tummy tuck can have physical health benefits. A recent study of women who had postnatal abdominoplasty, showed a marked reduction in back pain and urinary incontinence, common results of pregnancy and childbirth:

“The study included 214 women undergoing abdominoplasty with repair of the abdominal muscles . . . . The women’s average age was about 42 years, with an average of 2.5 deliveries.

“Before and after surgery, the women completed questionnaires rating their disability from back pain and urinary incontinence . . . about 51 percent of women had moderate to severe disability from back pain, while urinary incontinence was a ‘significant concern’ for 42.5 percent.

“On follow-up questionnaires . . . only nine percent of patients still had moderate disability from back pain. Urinary incontinence remained a significant problem for less than two percent of women.”

At Rowley Plastic Surgery, we offer no-obligation consultations, so we can get a good feel for your needs, motivations, and expectations. We can address any questions you might have about the surgery you’re interested in, and we can talk to you about realistic options. We will help you determine if a certain procedure is a good fit for you and if it isn’t, Dr. Rowley will tell you honestly and help find other solutions. Women trust her because she doesn’t sugar coat and will tell you the truth about what you can expect, always with your best interests in mind. Call today for your no-obligation consultation today.

Tummy Tuck or Liposuction: Which Lubbock Plastic Surgery is Right for You?

For women ready to rediscover the body they had before aging and having children, there are several different plastic surgery procedures to address stubborn pockets of fat, loose belly skin, and other concerns. When it comes to Lubbock plastic surgery, you may have heard a lot of terms–tummy tuck, liposuction, breast lift, etc.–but how much do you know about what these really mean? Below we’ll explain some of the common procedures, what they are for, and how you might combine them to get the results you want.

What Can a Tummy Tuck Do?

A tummy tuck, “also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin and, in most cases, restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer.” As a result of pregnancy, in addition to the stretched skin on the abdomen, women may also experience diastasis, a laxity of abdominal muscles. The looseness of skin and laxity of muscle isn’t something that responds to diet or exercise–they are structural issues that require the surgical solution of a tummy tuck.

Because a tummy tuck is geared toward tightening up loose muscle and skin, it’s not a weight-loss procedure like liposuction (more on that below). But, like weight-loss techniques, it can result in more contoured appearance and slimmer silhouette. This is especially so when combined with some other procedures, such as liposuction or breast enhancements. This combination of procedures is commonly referred to as a mommy makeover. Plastic surgery options done in tandem can give any patient dramatic changes in appearance.

As with any medical decision, whether to get a tummy tuck is a serious question. Dr. Jane Rowley has said about tummy tucks,

“This is actually a more significant procedure than most people understand. The media often portrays this as a ‘skin surgery,’ but this is a surgery that actually involves the entire core of your body, with tightening of the abdominal muscles and tightening of the skin. The results can be exceptional on the right patient. Although weight loss might not be significant with this procedure, contouring and tightening of the abdominal wall is significant.”

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes your excess fat in a targeted area. It’s a Lubbock plastic surgery option that can give you a second chance to remove stubborn fat in different areas of your body that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise. Typically the best areas for the procedure are outer thighs, hips, and under the chin (submental area). Different procedures are available for liposuction, but they operate on the same basic principle: A small incision is made. A small tube is used to suction out the fat. If you are having the procedure done on a small area, then local anesthetic is needed. If you are choosing to have the procedure on different areas, you may need general anesthetics.

Liposuction has long been a popular plastic surgery choice. Getting rid of unwanted fat can give you greater confidence in your physical appearance. New studies are even suggesting that getting rid of that fat can have some heart-healthy bonuses as well as the cosmetic benefits. Liposuction is not, however, a procedure for general weight loss. A patient should be a stable weight but with stubborn fat that won’t go away through other efforts. Patients need to be in good health and quit smoking before the surgery and during recovery.

Combine Procedures in a Mommy Makeover

If you are not just concerned about loose belly skin or stubborn areas of fat, you may want to consider how a tummy tuck or liposuction can be combined with other procedures for a more striking effect. Common procedures combined with abdominal procedures include:

  • Breast Augmentation (augmentation mammoplasty). Women seeking a breast augmentation can adjust the size and shape of their breasts. The breasts will be fuller and more symmetric.
  • Breast Lift (mastopexy). A breast lift can assist Lubbock patients by removing excess breast skin and adjusting breasts into a more youthful position. The nipple is also moved to a more upward position. A breast lift won’t change the size of your breast.
  • Simultaneous Breast Augmentation and Breast Lift (augmentation mastopexy). Combining these two procedures leads to shapely, larger, more youthful looking breasts. On the right patient they can give dramatic results to your figure.

How to Get the Most out of Lubbock Plastic Surgery

As with any plastic surgery, patients need to have realistic expectations about their results. The key to this is having thorough consultations with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Patients that are informed about their surgery tend to heal better and have more satisfying outcomes with their surgery. So, to ensure you are educated, don’t hesitate to ask questions like:

  • How is the procedure performed?
  • What are the risks of this surgery?
  • What can I expect during recovery?
  • Will the results be permanent?
  • Will I need to have additional procedures down the road?

Women can work with their board-certified surgeon to tailor the combination of procedures that meet their unique needs. For the best outcomes available, contact the leading surgeon in Lubbock plastic surgery,  Dr. Jane Rowley. Dr. Rowley is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over twenty years experience with these procedures. You can have confidence in Dr. Rowley’s ability to help you achieve your cosmetic goals. Call today to schedule your no-obligation consultation.

Mommy Makeovers: More than Just a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

When we are young and anticipate the joys of motherhood, we can underestimate the toll that pregnancy, the demands of child rearing, and time can take on our body. But before we know it, we’re no longer those glowing, expectant mothers. With a little help from modern surgical technology, there are many ways to regain your sense of youthfulness, to boost your confidence, and reclaim the shape you sacrificed to have a family.

In our practice, we consult with many mothers considering tummy tuck in Lubbock who are surprised to learn how many options they have after childbearing. While not everyone loves the term, what pop culture often terms a “Mommy Makeover” is a popular term referring to a combination of procedures to target different areas of your body you wish during a single surgery. Several areas may be combined in one procedure to create the full look that is wanted with minimal downtime and a dramatic effect for the right patient.

If you’d like to see a little more (or less) curve here or there, whether after your pregnancies or as you age, you have several options to combine plastic surgery procedures covering different areas like tummies, breasts, hips, buttocks, and even submental liposuction to tighten up a threatening double chin.  

You get to decide—with only a single recovery.  So let’s discuss your options.

Breast Procedures: Breast Enhancement, Breast Lift, and Breast Reduction

When most people think about plastic surgery for breasts, they think of implants to increase breast size.  But there are other breast procedures that can help women feel better about their appearance and themselves, aside from simply increasing their cup size. Which procedure is right for you depends on your body and your preferences, a decision made in consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.

After nursing, or simply with age, a woman’s breasts can sag, look deflated, and lose shape. If you would like to add volume and fullness to your breasts, then a breast augmentation with breast implants is a good option. If fullness is not a concern for you, but your breasts droop with the nipples pointing downward and/or the top of the areola lower than the crease under the breast when viewed from the side, you could benefit simply from a breast lift. And of course, it’s not uncommon for women to choose both breast implants and a breast lift, restoring their youthful appearance while adding fullness.

What if you have too much breast tissue? In addition to making some women feel uncomfortable with their appearance because of a lack of proportion or unwanted attention, having too large of breasts can create physical discomfort.  The weight can cause back, neck, or shoulder pain. Some women get rashes or irritations in the crease of the breasts. Some may even have numbness or tingling in their hands and arms. If any of this sounds familiar, a breast reduction may be a good choice for you (and may be covered by your insurance).  This procedure has some of the highest patient satisfaction rates in cosmetic surgery.

Abdominal Procedures: Liposuction and Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

Pregnancy can also leave women with loose, excess skin around their midsection, stubborn pockets of fat that won’t respond to diet or exercise, and a laxity of abdominal muscles (diastasis). If you have concerns about your belly, hips, or thighs, you have a couple of options, such as a tummy tuck or liposuction.

A tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty) removes baggy, stretched skin that hangs around after you have had children or lost a significant amount of weight. A tummy tuck can even remove some stretch marks from pregnancies, and includes tightening up your abdominal muscles. While a tummy tuck in Lubbock might not result in significant weight loss, it does have a significant effect on the abdominal core.

Liposuction, on the other hand, removes that fat in your belly and hip areas that doesn’t go away with exercise and diet. This procedure is designed to remove areas of localized fat persist despite any constant efforts to eliminate them. Liposuction can successfully reshape your body and works well as part of a mommy makeover, as women tend to hold on to fat as they age.

An extended tummy tuck uses a slightly longer incision to shape the hips, and is often combined with liposuction to tighten and shape the side of the waist.

Why Lubbock Women Choose Dr. Jane Rowley

Combining procedures can yield impressive results. However, with each added procedure, it’s even more important to find a trusted, board-certified plastic surgeon you can thoroughly consult with about your cosmetic goals who shares your perspective.  Dr. Jane Rowley always listens to her patients and is well known for being a collaborative guide that helps women develop a plan that best fits their individual needs and bodies.

A mommy makeover can restore your confidence by helping you regain your natural, youthful beauty with a tighter stomach, slimmer hips, and a fuller or more proportionate bustline. If you’re looking for a tummy tuck in Lubbock or the surrounding areas, or any combination of cosmetic procedures to get the look you want, take time to chat with Dr. Rowley.  She wants her patients to be happy with their results–and themselves–she wants you to thoroughly understand all of your options and what procedures would work best for your lifestyle and body type. She will spend whatever time is necessary to make your plastic surgery experience the best one for you. With over twenty years of experience, Dr. Rowley is the leading surgeon in Lubbock that offers plastic surgery with a woman’s perspective.  Discuss your options at a no-obligation consultation with Dr. Rowley. Call to schedule yours today.

Your Options for a Tummy Tuck in Lubbock

Abdominoplasty, better known as tummy tuck surgery, is becoming more and more common among women. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 129,753 tummy tucks were performed in 2017, a two percent increase from the previous year. The surgery removes excess skin and tightens muscles along the abdominal wall. It creates a smoother, firmer abdomen and improves self-image. A tummy tuck will not make you lose a large of weight, but it will tone up and flatten your midsection.

The Right Candidate

Diet and exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, but sometimes they do not have much of an effect on a waist with flabby skin. People who have loose skin after pregnancy or who have lost a drastic amount of weight can benefit from getting a tummy tuck in Lubbock. The ideal tummy tuck candidate also:

  • Is in good health
  • Does not smoke or use nicotine
  • Has realistic expectations
  • Can maintain a healthy, consistent weight

Tummy Tuck Surgery Options

When you undergo a tummy tuck in Lubbock, your abdominal muscles will be repaired and tightened by your plastic surgeon. The procedure takes about two hours and requires a general anesthetic. A horizontal incision is made just above the bikini line. The more excess skin you have, the longer the incision will need to be. Several different surgical options are available.

  • Mini Tummy Tuck: this method is for those with minimal sagging skin that is located mostly under the belly button. It requires an incision that is only a few inches long and corrects the pooch that many women have after bearing children. The navel usually does not need to be moved with this surgery.
  • Standard Tummy Tuck: a regular tummy tuck in Lubbock removes more skin and fat than the mini version. It is a more involved procedure and results in a scar that reaches from hip to hip. The belly button will be repositioned by your surgeon to keep the tummy’s natural look.
  • Extended Tummy Tuck: this version is for patients whose fat and loose skin extends from the belly to the sides of the abdomen. Liposuction is often done together with this procedure to achieve better body contour. The scar is longer than that of a standard tummy tuck, but it’s a small price to pay for such dramatic results.

What to Expect for Recovery

Most tummy tuck patients can go home within several hours after their surgery, but those undergoing the extended version may need to stay overnight for observation. Small drain tubes will likely be placed to help rid the body of extra fluid buildup. Compression garments will help with swelling. While resting during recovery is important, your doctor may encourage you to walk or move around to improve circulation. Expect to take 2-3 weeks off work and allow 6-8 weeks for your full recovery.

If you are thinking about a tummy tuck in Lubbock, these factors deserve your consideration:

  • Whether you fit the profile of a good tummy tuck candidate
  • What type of tummy tuck best suits your needs
  • Your plans for taking time off work for recovery

For more information about which tummy tuck procedure might be right for you, call our office today to schedule a no-obligation consultation.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Which is Right for You?

Have you walked through the store in Lubbock and seen swimwear on display yet? It may seem like the holidays just ended, but we are already being reminded to get ready for pool season. If the thought of putting on a swimsuit makes you cringe, now might be the perfect time to consider a cosmetic procedure to get rid of unwanted belly fat or loose skin.

Dramatic Results with a Tummy Tuck

Flabby, hanging belly skin is a problem for many people, especially for those who have lost a significant amount of weight or women who have had children. This procedure eliminates that loose skin and tightens the tummy and abdominal muscles. Not even the best personal trainer can help you get rid of extra skin. A skilled plastic surgeon, however, can give you the flatter, leaner tummy that will help you feel more confident in this season’s swimwear.

Body Contouring with Liposuction

Liposuction can have a remarkable effect on the shape of your body. This procedure works well for people who struggle with fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. While it is not considered a weight loss surgery, liposuction targets specific areas of fat to enhance the natural curves of your body. Depending on the amount of loose skin you have on your abdomen, your board-certified Lubbock surgeon may recommend that liposuction is done in conjunction with a tummy tuck.

Call the Experts

Only a board-certified plastic surgeon can give you the best advice on which procedure will give you the best results. Trust a surgeon with plenty of experience; doing your research will pay off. If you dread swimsuit season because of how you feel about your body, a plastic surgeon with skill and expertise can give you back your confidence by helping you feel good in your own skin.

Dr. Jane Rowley has over 20 years of experience helping her patients achieve their cosmetic dreams. If you are ready to take the next step in improving your self-image,  call our Lubbock office today for a no-obligation consultation.