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One of the most common areas that adults struggle with loose skin and extra fat is on the abdomen, especially after a dramatic weight loss, aging, and pregnancies. As a result, tummy tuck surgery is popular for contouring the waist and slimming an individual’s figure. However, some individuals may be hesitant to consider the surgery due to the long recovery period with unpleasant drainage tubes.
For this reason, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Deigni offers patients who want the cosmetic and medical benefits of the operation without the drainage tubes a drainless tummy tuck in Houston. The surgery utilizes a unique suturing method to eliminate the need for drainage tubes that often lead to minor healing complications and additional scarring. Ask our team more about the advantages of a drainless tummy tuck than traditional surgery by scheduling a consultation.
Both procedures utilize surgical extraction to remove extra fat deposits and loose skin from the abdomen and can be combined with liposuction for a more dramatic result. However, a traditional tummy tuck uses drainage tubes extending from patients’ incisions during the recovery process to prevent fluid accumulation and reduce swelling. However, many tummy tuck patients in Houston find this technique uncomfortable and tedious, as it requires additional observation and recovery time at the medical facility. Alternatively, a drainless tummy tuck procedure uses several layers of sutures to close incisions and secure the skin, fat, and muscles together to prevent fluid buildup.
Another advantage of this technique is a smoother recovery for most patients due to fewer complications with incision healing. Furthermore, drainless tummy tuck scars typically are less visible than scars that occur after a traditional procedure, since drainage tubes can worsen them.
When people ask who makes a good candidate in Houston for a tummy tuck, the answer is not just about having loose skin. It is about your overall health, your goals, and your expectations. An ideal candidate is usually someone who is close to their goal weight but still struggles with extra skin or stubborn fat around the midsection. Many men and women come in after major weight loss or after pregnancy, when the abdominal muscles and skin simply will not snap back. Another sign that you might be a good candidate is if you notice your abdominal muscles feel weak or separated. A tummy tuck can tighten those muscles and give you back a stronger core.
The best candidates have realistic expectations. A tummy tuck can dramatically flatten and shape the stomach caused by loose skin, but it is not a substitute for losing a large amount of weight. Non-smokers, or people who are ready to quit smoking before and after surgery, are also ideal because smoking slows healing and increases the risk of complications. Finally, candidates should be emotionally ready for the changes. Surgery can be life-enhancing, but it is important to make the decision for yourself, not for anyone else.
Before your procedure, general anesthesia will be administered to ensure you are comfortable throughout your surgery. The procedure will involve Dr. Deigni making a careful incision along your lower abdomen, carefully removing excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying muscles for a flatter appearance. Instead of using traditional drains, he uses advanced drainless tummy tuck techniques. These will minimize fluid buildup, and sutures that encourage fluid to be absorbed by the body naturally will be used. After completing your procedure, Dr. Deigni will place dressings on the incision site.
Compared to a traditional tummy tuck, you can expect less discomfort and a simpler recovery from your drainless tummy tuck, especially since you will not have the hassle of managing drains. During your recovery, you should prioritize rest, stay hydrated, and eat a balanced, protein-rich diet to promote healing. Gentle walking can help improve circulation, but you should avoid strenuous activities for several weeks as directed by Dr. Deigni. You may be required to wear a compression garment to support your abdomen and reduce swelling. Throughout your healing process, Dr. Deigni will be available for support and follow-up, ensuring you achieve the desired results.
Let us talk about what recovery actually looks like step by step.
Most often, patients in Houston undergo tummy tuck surgery to eliminate stubborn abdominal fat that does not respond to diet and exercise, whether due to genetics, lifestyle habits, or other reasons. This is because tummy tuck surgery is the most effective option for removing loose skin from significant weight loss that hides muscle contours.
Many patients choose to have the procedure to repair weak and separated abdominal muscles, which often occurs during pregnancy. However, other patients could develop the condition from aging, rapid weight changes, weightlifting, abdominal swelling, and hereditary factors.
The operation provides a broad spectrum of medical benefits in addition to the various cosmetic improvements. For instance, by strengthening the abdominal muscles, patients have an increased tolerance for exercise and decreased risks of hernias. Additionally, many women have increased bladder control and, subsequently, fewer instances of urinary incontinence due to childbirth.
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Yes, there will be a scar because an incision is necessary to remove skin and tighten muscles. The difference is that the scar is placed low, along the bikini line, where clothing usually covers it. Most patients feel that the trade-off of a low scar is well worth the smoother, flatter stomach.
After surgery, you will feel sore and tight in the abdominal area, but most patients describe it as manageable. Medication helps in the first week, and the drainless technique usually means less discomfort compared to a traditional tummy tuck with drains.
As long as you keep a stable weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle, your flatter stomach and stronger core can last for many years. Natural aging may cause some changes over time, but the improvements from surgery remain noticeable.
Like any surgery, there are risks such as bleeding, infection, or delayed healing. With the drainless technique, some of these risks are reduced because there are no drains to manage. Following your post-surgery instructions closely helps lower the chance of complications and supports smooth healing.
A drainless tummy tuck is often combined with liposuction for even more contouring. Some patients choose to add a breast procedure as part of a mommy makeover. Combining procedures can give you comprehensive results while limiting you to one recovery period.
Though the cosmetic and medical benefits of undergoing tummy tuck surgery are enticing, the recovery process may make you hesitant. However, you could enjoy the same abdominal enhancements without additional scarring and recovery time with a drainless tummy tuck in Houston. In addition, patients who choose a drainless tummy tuck usually have more mobility during their recovery due to the lack of drainage tubes.
For more details on a drainless approach to tummy tuck surgery, call 281-721-4373 for a consultation and medical assessment to discuss your eligibility for surgery.
(281) 721-4373 
info@deigniplasticsurgery.com 