Tummy Tuck San Antonio

After an abdominoplasty, most patients can go home the same day. If we are doing an excision of a large amount of skin or additional procedures, you may need to stay overnight in the hospital or surgical center.

A seroma is a pocket of fluid that sometimes develops beneath the skin after tummy tuck surgery. While seromas are one of the more common minor side effects, they are usually temporary and easily managed. Surgeons often take steps to reduce the risk, such as placing drains, using special suturing techniques, and recommending compression garments. Small seromas often resolve on their own, while larger ones may require a simple in-office drainage procedure. With proper care, seromas rarely impact your long-term results.

During your consultation, your surgeon will review all your options and supply you with recommendations. In general, an abdominoplasty is a good option if:

• You are at your ideal weight and have been stable at that weight for at least 6 months
• You are nicotine free. Nicotine can cause severe complications such as skin necrosis and wound separation. Tobacco use can also lead to an increased risk of developing a blood clot
• you have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery.
• If you have any bleeding or clotting problems, it is important that we are made aware of it. We will work with your hematologist to determine if this is a safe operation for you.
• If you have significant medical problems, we will work with your physicians to determine if you can safely undergo surgery.

If you are considering abdominoplasty, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon with ample experience performing this procedure. The surgeon will be able to evaluate your individual case and provide you with specific recommendations.

At HCPS, we utilize a drainless tummy tuck method for most patients. Instead, we use other techniques to avoid the development of fluid collections. This helps the patient recover and get back to normal life much faster.

A cosmetic abdominoplasty is not covered by insurance, however, if you have chronic rashes under excess skin, your insurance carrier may cover a panniculectomy. If you are having a panniculectomy, the abdominal muscle plication (six pack tightening) and any additional dissection and liposuction will not be covered. These procedures can be combined with the panniculectomy but will be an additional and separate cost. We will work with your insurance carrier, but the final decision will be theirs.

The surgery typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure and if combined with liposuction.

Expect swelling, soreness, and limited movement for the first few weeks, with full recovery in 6 weeks.

A tummy tuck can help remove some stretch marks but not all, especially those on the upper abdomen.

As with all major surgery, risks can include infection, scarring, blood clots, and anesthesia complications, but these are rare and should be discussed during your consultation.

Results are long-lasting if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

Scars are typically hidden along the bikini line and fade significantly over time with proper care.

Yes, tummy tucks are often paired with liposuction or included in mommy makeover surgeries.

Light walking is encouraged immediately to help promote circulation, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for 6 weeks.