Plus-Sized Tummy Tuck

In recent years, the Tummy Tuck has grown in popularity as a fantastic cosmetic approach to tapering the gut. Patients all over the world have benefited from this fantastic procedure and its remarkable results. Naturally, there are plus-sized patients who wonder if they are eligible to undergo this treatment.

Houston Plastic Surgery Associates

Our plus-sized tummy tuck in Houston is available for patients who have a higher BMI than the average patient. While they can provide incredible relief to patients, plus-sized procedures are much more complicated, take longer to complete, and come with more risks. It is vital that patients be aware of the costs and other details of this procedure before embarking on this journey.

What is a Plus-Sized Tummy Tuck?

A plus-sized tummy tuck, often referred to as a high BMI tummy tuck or an overweight tummy tuck, is a treatment that removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen. When this unwanted fat and skin are extracted, the abdominal muscles are able to tighten up and, as a result, reveal the slimmer stomach that’s hiding underneath. Overall, a plus-sized tummy tuck procedure resembles a traditional abdominoplasty except for the fact that a larger amount of fat is removed. While many plastic surgeons refuse plus-sized tummy tuck patients based on their high BMI scores, it is still a viable option for them.

Who is an ideal candidate for a plus-sized tummy tuck?

Generally speaking, ideal candidates for a plus-sized tummy tuck in Houston:

Have a BMI of no more than 40
Be of sound body and mind
Be considered medically safe to undergo the procedure
Not be pregnant or planning to get pregnant

What are the benefits of a plus-sized tummy tuck?

Better-fitting clothes
A slimmer, flatter stomach
Increased comfort in clothes
Exercise and physical activity become easier
Issues such as chafing and hanging skin folds are a thing of the past
A tighter abdomen
A boost in self-confidence

What does the consultation entail?

During the consultation, patients have the opportunity to ask any and all questions regarding the procedure, recovery, and results. Some patients are interested in having other procedures performed in tandem with their tummy tuck, such as liposuction, breast reduction, or a breast lift. All of this can be discussed during the private consultation.

It is during the consultation that patients’ medical history and BMI will be assessed to determine their candidacy. If the patient needs to take further steps prior to undergoing the treatment, this information will be made available to them at this time.

How to prepare for the tummy tuck

Patients who decide to go forward with the surgery will receive a personalized health plan that is uniquely curated for them prior to the treatment. A full medical evaluation is performed, and all of the patient’s medications and prescriptions are reviewed as a part of this process.

Patients should plan to take at least two weeks off from work and other commitments when undergoing the procedure.

What is the procedure like?

Our plus-sized tummy tuck in Houston is typically carried out under general anesthesia, meaning that patients are not awake and do not experience any pain throughout the treatment. A safe anesthesia care plan is created prior to the surgery.

During the surgery, hernias are treated, the muscle sub-structure is tightened, and all excess skin, fat, and tissue are extracted. The incisions are then carefully and delicately sutured shut to mitigate any scarring. The length and location of incisions will depend on the patient’s unique conditions.

Following the surgery, patients are provided with a compression garment that keeps pressure on the treated area to help control swelling.

What is the recovery period like?

Patients can expect to rest at home for the first two weeks following the treatment. During this recovery period, patients need to focus on resting, maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and keeping the treatment area free from any pressure or stress. Taking short, gentle walks can aid in speeding up the healing process. Patients’ range of motion will be restricted, and they must refrain from lifting anything that weighs more than five pounds.

Strenuous activity, such as exercise, needs to be avoided for at least six weeks and should only be resumed upon receiving permission from the practitioner. In the early stages of recovery, patients will need help from a friend or family member who can be close by during the first few days following the procedure.

Why choose us?

Christopher Balinger, MD, is highly revered in the international plastic, cosmetic, and reconstructive industry. More pertinent to the issue at hand, he was recently voted one of the top 5 plastic surgeons for plus-sized tummy tuck. His practice, Houston Plastic Surgery Associates, is well-known for achieving results that leave patients looking revitalized and refreshed, instilling them with new-found confidence.

A graduate of Eastern Virginia Medical School in Norfolk, Virginia, Dr. Ballinger has always been interested in learning the most innovative treatments available. He went on to complete a residency in general surgery at St. Luke’s Bethlehem in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, as well as six years of postgraduate surgical training. He then decided to further hone his cosmetic surgery specialty skills with a three-year fellowship in Houston, TX.

Dr. Balinger’s experience and knowledge of surgical techniques are unmatched. This, coupled with his famous professionalism and commitment to excellence, help him achieve the best results possible for each and every one of his patients.