Toronto Tummy Tuck News

Lipo or tummy tuck?

2009-06-15T15:54:00.000-07:00

I just had a baby and want to get rid of this pouch of fat. What's the best procedure for me: liposuction or tummy tuck?

Generally, post pregnancy flab is a result of several things:

1 .Fat. Most of the time, women gain weight during pregnancy and find it difficult to get rid of it after childbirth. While excess fat is distributed all over the body, it may be more pronounced on the stomach area.

2. Weakened/separated ab muscles. To accommodate the size of the fetus, pregnant women experience a stretching of ab muscles and sometimes diastasis recti, a separation of the ab muscles. After childbirth, weakened/separated ab muscles can contribute to the appearance of a a pot belly, as well as bad posture.

3. Saggy skin. For most women, pregnancy causes the skin to stretch immensely over a short period of time. After childbirth, the skin remains loose until it can gradually return to its original tautness, if ever. Stretch marks are also quite common.

So, to make a long story short, you're probably better off exploring a tummy tuck for your post-pregnancy body rather than liposuction. Liposuction only removes fat (and to some extent, can tightens overlying skin if it's laser assisted). A tummy tuck can remove fat as well as tighten weakened muscles and lax skin - all of which may be causing your "pouch".

But remember: the best thing to do is to speak to a qualified physician to determine what ever course of action is most suitable.

Weight Loss with a Tummy Tuck?

2009-05-12T08:13:00.000-07:00

A tummy tuck does get rid of excess skin and fat in the abdominal area (as well as tightens the ab muscles). However, patients shouldn't expect to lose a lot of weight from the procedure.

Abdominoplasty is not designed as a method of weight loss. It is a cosmetic procedure that only targets the abdominal area and removes what is necessary to achieve a more desirable body contour. Therefore, the amount of weight lost will be limited to what the removed skin and fat weighs. It may be anywhere from 1 to 6 pounds, depending on the patient.

Common Side Effects and Risks Related to Tummy Tuck Surgery

2009-04-05T13:41:00.000-07:00

A flatter stomach, no more flabby skin, and more muscular definition is what a tummy tuck can achieve for you. But as an individual considering abdominoplasty, it's important to know what side effects and complications may occur following surgery as well.

Some of the more common ones are the following:

Tightness following surgery: Because a portion of excess skin may have been removed during surgery, afterward, you may find it a little difficult to stand up totally straight. You may also feel tightness in the area - some describe as "tugging". This is temporary and should resolve itself over time.

Scarring: Undoubtedly, scarring is one of the worst cosmetic risks of tummy tuck surgery. It's absolutely unavoidable since the surgery requires an incision (a scar occurs when the skin is broken in any way), but you can help make your scar heal nicely by doing things like avoiding the sun, keeping the area clean to avoid infection, and following all of your physician's post-care instructions.

Numbness in the treated area: Considered temporary and will fade with time. This may be a result of trapped fluids under the skin, which can also cause some degree of swelling. Trapped fluids may be removed with the assistance of your physician.

What is Panniculectomy

2009-03-07T11:26:00.000-08:00

Panniculectomy is the technical term for the removal of the pannus, the portion of skin and fat that hang below the abdomen. The pannus is a common feature of individuals who are greatly overweight. It typically looks like an apron.

During a panniculectomy, excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen (below the belly button) is removed. The muscles are not tightened.

This type of tummy tuck is normally performed on women following massive weight loss or pregnancy, as well as those who suffer from back problems, rashes and ulcers caused by the pannus. It may also be suitable for men and women who are unable to undergo a full tummy tuck due to health concerns.

A New Way to Get Rid of Flabby Bellies!

2008-09-03T10:51:00.000-07:00

Okay. So we're not trying to say that a tummy tuck is a bad thing. But if you want to get rid of your pot belly but don't have the time to take off work or your regular life to recover from a surgical procedure, then you may want to check out a new way to slim down.

UltraShape is the newest technology in cosmetic surgery. It's basically a nonsurgical way to eliminate fat deposits in the stomach. While it doesn't tighten up loose skin like a tummy tuck does, it can fight half of the problem by destroying the unwanted fat cells in the stomach.

Patients have described a session as painless, so you don't even need anesthesia! The technology is based on therapeutic ultrasound energy, designed to target only the fat cells in the area. The membranes of the fat cells are disrupted so they release their contents to be processed by the body's natural physiological systems. That's how the area trims down.

You'll probably need about 3 sessions to see desirable results, and when we're talking about results, we aren't talking about something insignificant. We're talking about a measurable reduction in the circumference of your stomach of more than a few centimeters! All of this without the related side effects of a surgical procedure and the administration of anesthesia.

Borrowing Money for Beauty Treatments

2007-11-01T18:43:00.000-07:00

If you’re going to buy your beauty would you rather do it with cash or credit? Those aren’t your only options anymore. There are companies now that exist solely for the purpose of granting cosmetic surgery loans. These are quick, easy, no deposit loans for relatively small ($8000 - $15,000) cost procedures. These loans can be viewed as a cheaper alternative to costly credit card interest rates. But plastic surgeons are concerned that it will promote women who don’t have the money to get surgery they otherwise wouldn't be able to afford. However, these same doctors have been accepting credit cards for years. Is there really a difference? Credit is credit is credit. Whether you have credit with a bank in the form of a card, or credit with a bank in the form a loan, the only difference is the amount of interest you’re paying. So shop around and make sure you’re getting the best rate. And to those loan companies who think their rates are so great, a zero percent interest credit card would always be preferable to a loan. But that’s just my opinion.

Demi Moore cost more than $600,000

2007-09-13T14:47:00.000-07:00

Today the Associate Press reported that Demi Moore has admitted to having had more than $600,000 worth of cosmetic surgery work done. This is no doubt an admission designed to spurn interest in her upcoming book about Hollywood's obsession with youth.

The world famous actress has admitted to getting a procedure done to lift sagging skin around her knees. One can't help but wonder if this is similar to a tummy tuck procedure in the way skin is removed and then stitched back to remove sagging. If she shows up at the Toronto Film Festival, we'll all have to take a close look at her knees.

Happy Belated B-Day Liv!

2007-07-13T10:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated 30th Birthday to actress Liv Tyler. Her birthday was July 1.

Originally a staunch opponent of cosmetic surgery who wanted to avoid going under the knife at all costs and to age gracefully, Liv Tyler has admitted to have changed her mind after giving birth to her first child in 2004. Though there still haven't been any reports saying that she has actually undergone surgery, a tummy tuck is probably one of the procedures she's considering.

Tummy tucks are extremely popular amongst women who have given birth. Skin on the abdomen normally stretches excessively to accommodate pregnancy, which does not tend to shrink back following childbirth. This, combined with weight gain, makes it extremely difficult for women to firm up the area with exercise and diet alone. The amount of fat may decrease, but following a healthy lifestyle is insufficient to tighten hanging excess skin.

However, tummy tucks are best performed on women who don't expect to become pregnant again. Pregnancy and childbirth can undo results.

Scars at the Beach

2007-07-09T11:57:00.002-07:00

Got a tummy tuck but worried about showing the scar at the beach? Don't worry about it so much. Scars from a tummy tuck are typically placed low, just above the pubic mound. The length depends on the extent of surgery, but whatever the length, it will run horizontally, above the hip sockets. So, considering this, most bathing suits will cover the scars well. No need to restrict yourself to a one piece. Show off that new flat stomach with a itsy bitsy two piece!

And remember: even if your bathing suit covers the scar, make sure you still wear a good sunscreen because tanning the scar will make it darker and more noticeable!

Fashionable Flab

2007-06-28T15:07:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder how to get a tummy tuck without surgery? If you're still not sure whether you want to go under the knife but really hate the flab on your belly, especially when you wear pants, this could be the answer.

American clothing manufacturer, NYDJ™ (Not Your Daughter’s Jeans), has created a pair of jeans that effectively hides away that flab. No more bulges and lumps. Tummy Tuck™ jeans are a combination of Lycra and denim in a patented weave, preserving the beauty of denim but enhancing comfort. They are available in Canada, but not in Toronto at the moment.

Though we haven't tried them out ourselves, they look like a great solution, though very temporary, to unsightly bellies. According to their website, they even make your butt look good, too. Until you take them off, of course!

About Labiaplasty

2007-06-03T17:10:00.000-07:00

Labiaplasty is one of the more popular forms of genital cosmetic surgery in Toronto. It is also commonly referred to as labiaplasty, labial reduction, labia reduction and vulvar surgery. At most Toronto based cosmetic surgical clinics, this simple cosmetic surgery procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis.

Labioplasty In The Past
There has been a growing amount of interest and information on labioplasty over the past few years. However, the procedure itself has a surprisingly well documented and long history.

Some of the earliest records on labioplasty as a cosmetic procedure were documented by the ancient Indian surgeon Sushruta (circa. 6th century B.C.) The same surgeon who developed rhinoplasty (nose jobs). He is known for having established the basis for many cosmetic surgery procedures today.

The Labioplasty Procedure
A local anesthetic is normally used, often with a sedative. In certain cases, a general anesthetic may be preferred. This entirely depends on the individual patient's situation. Also, it can depend on such factors as if one or more procedures are to be performed before and/or after the labioplasty.

In order to help reduce the flow of blood to the targeted area by shrinking the blood vessels, a special medication may be used.

Finally, during the procedure itself, the labia majora and/or labia minora are reduced, usually to make them appear more symmetrical. They can also be reduced to resolve issues with scar tissue from past
injuries.

Extremely fine and precise incisions are made by the cosmetic surgeon to perform the reduction. After the excess tissue has been removed, a particular type of suture is used, often dissolvable

These precise incisions and sutures are what help to ensure that there is virtually no visible scarring nor discoloration after the labioplasty. As well, the reduction should have no impact on sensitivity in the area.

The cosmetic surgeon will usually make an effort to ensure that only the minimum amount of reduction necessary is performed. This is typically for the health and safety of the patient.

As mentioned above, like many other cosmetic surgery procedures, it can be performed in conjunction with other ones. In Toronto, labiaplasty is also commonly performed in conjunction with vaginoplasty, also known as vaginal tightening surgery.

Taking Care of Post Operative Scars

2007-03-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

Scars are a common occurrence following any type of invasive surgical procedure, including those performed in cosmetic surgery. While the experience and skill of the practicing cosmetic surgeon is key to minimizing, and even eliminating, a resulting scar from an incision made during surgery, patients may also help in reducing the development of scars.

What is a scar?

A scar is formed when there is damage to tissue anywhere on the body, whether internally or externally. In the case of post operative scars of tummy tucks, the damage is caused by either trauma, which the surgery aims to correct, or an incision/invasive technique required to perform the procedure.

The body reacts to any damage to tissue by growing excess tissue that is referred to as “connective”. Connective tissue is one of the four primary types of tissue of the human body, and is quite fibrous. It can be soft or hard, like bone.

When connective tissue grows in response to damage, it is known as scar tissue. It is typical for scar tissue to be of poorer quality than the skin surrounding it. Hair and sweat glands are few or even non-existent, and the area is extremely sensitive to ultraviolet radiation.

Types of Scars

Scar tissue appearance can be almost invisible, blending in well with the colour and texture of the surrounding undamaged tissue. This is ideal for most patients who have undergone surgery, as it does not adversely affect the appearance and function of the treated area.

However, there are times when scar tissue does not blend in with the surrounding area. In this case, it may be noticeable by appearing bumpy, discoloured, and generally unappealing. When it is on the body in a place that is generally visible to others, such as the face, this can be embarrassing.

Post Operative Care

For this reason, it is important to follow the post operative care instructions detailed to you by your surgeon or doctor, and protect the area from sun exposure with sunscreen and clothing. They will tell you how to take care of the incised area. Additionally, you may also want to increase Vitamin E intake, as it assists in skin care. Foods such as green vegetables and eggs can help in repairing damaged tissue and reducing development of scar tissue. Preventing further damage and infection can also reduce scar tissue.

Unfortunately, other than the aforementioned, there is not much that can be done to prevent scarring. Once a scar has developed, only avoiding sun exposure will prevent further development.

Jason Weighs In

2006-12-04T08:56:00.000-08:00

Jason Alexander weighs in on Britney Spears
Bosh - New York,NY,USA
... British newspaper, the Sun, in which he revealed how he feels about Britney's new
friendship with Paris Hilton and claims that Britney has had a tummy tuck. ...

More On Spears

2006-11-30T16:14:00.000-08:00

Britney Spears had a tummy tuck after giving birth, says ex ...
Fametastic - UK
Britney Spears‘ first husband (if only for 55 hours) Jason Alexander has
revealed that Britney had a tummy tuck to help get her back into shape
after giving ...

Hey Jason, How About a Brit of Privacy?
Dose.ca - Toronto,Ontario,Canada
... We just weren’t together long enough for that to come up really"), and
her alleged plastic surgery ("She had a tummy tuck after the birth of
her second child ...

Spears Ex To Write Tell-All Book
NBC13.com - Birmingham,AL,USA
... In the Sun interview, Alexander revealed that Spears had a tummy
tuck after the birth of her second child. He also gave hints about ...

BritBrit's First Husband Claims She Had Tummy Tuck
All Headline News - USA
... says the pop princess had a tummy tuck after giving birth to her second
child, Jayden James. ... She had a tummy tuck after the birth of her second
child. ...

Britney had a tummy tuck after her second pregnancy, says ex-hubby ...
DailyIndia.com - Jacksonville,FL,USA
... She's doing all that. She's been locked down for two years. She had a
tummy tuck after the birth of her second child. She's working on all of that. ...

The Top 5

2006-11-30T08:09:00.000-08:00

Survey Lists Top 5 Cosmetic Procedures
NBC5.com - Chicago,IL,USA
... to remove varicose veins. Breast augmentation came in sixth, followed by
liposuction, nose jobs, eyelid surgery, and tummy tucks.

What Is A Tummy Tuck, Anyway?

2006-11-29T08:27:00.000-08:00

The tummy tuck is also technically known as an abdominoplasty. In Toronto, it remains one of the more popular cosmetic procedures, like liposuction. And like the latter, it's a form of body contouring as opposed to weight loss. As such, tummy tucks are not considered an alternative to diet and exercise, but a last resort.

What It's For

The reason most people in Toronto opt for a tummy tuck is to change the appearance of their abdomen which is their "tummy" - hence, the term "tummy tuck". Excess skin and fat from the mid and lower abdomen are removed, while the individual is under a general anesthetic (usually). This usually
results in the visibility of the abdominal wall's muscle.

Types Of Tummy Tucks

There are two main types of tummy tucks: partial abdominoplasty and complete abdominoplasty.

In the partial abdominoplasty, a small incision is made between the hips, above the pubic area. Excess skin between the incision and the navel is removed, by stretching the skin down over it. The resulting flap of skin is then stitched into place.

In the complete abdomonioplasty, an incision is made from each hip, again, above the pubic area. Another incision is made around the navel, to free it. The skin over the abdominal wall is then detached to reveal the muscles. These muscles are then tightened via sutures. Again, the incisions result in a kind of skin flap. Any excess skin is removed, and a new hole for the navel is made. Finally, it's all stitched back into place.

In both types of tummy tucks available in Toronto, excess fluid from the area is drained as well.

In Combination With Other Procedures

In Toronto, one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed along with tummy tucks is liposuction. While abdominoplasty aims at the abdominal area, liposuction targets fatty deposits in other areas of the body, for example, the thighs and buttocks.

However, one should consult their cosmetic surgeon in advance in order to determine if performing more than one procedure at a time is feasible. Usually, this has to do with the individual's health and the areas targeted for liposuction.

After The Procedure

Regardless of whether one gets a partial or complete tummy tuck in Toronto, a certain amount of rest is required. For example, within ten days of the procedure, one may experience bruising and other types of discomfort. In Toronto, one may also get a supportive abdominal binder. This is worn to help contain any swelling and encourage recovery of the muscles. In the end, it may take several weeks until the healing process is complete.

Like after any cosmetic surgical procedure, you should avoid the consumption of alcohol, smoking, a stringent dieting and intense physical activity. Each one can severely affect one's ability to recover from the procedure.

Quality of Life

2006-11-27T17:07:00.000-08:00

Plastic surgeons target quality of life
The Tribune-Democrat - Johnstown,PA,USA
... Eyelid procedures and face-lifts remove the signs of aging from the face,
he said. But plastic surgery ...

A New Helen...

2006-11-26T16:13:00.000-08:00

Rebuilding Helen
Sacramento Bee - CA, USA
... Helen decided to kick-start her life with a new body -- new breasts and a tummy tuck,
all rolled into one surgery -- and she found herself in the San Francisco ...

The Facts

2006-11-19T22:00:00.000-08:00

The facts on tummy tucks
Charlotte Observer - Charlotte,NC,USA
• Abdominoplasty is the medical term for a tummy tuck. The two- to
five-hour procedure removes excess skin and fat from the middle ...

Not Just For Women

2006-11-17T19:09:00.000-08:00

The Facts You Don’t Hear About Canada’s Medicare Program.
ProgressiveU.org - San Mateo,CA,USA
... own pocket. Now when I say elective I do not mean a breast job or tummy
tuck I mean a knee or hip replacement surgery. If you are ...

Male factor: Plastic surgery is not just for women anymore
Altoona Mirror - Altoona,PA,USA
... been bothering you? Perhaps you’ve always wanted a smaller or thinner
nose? Maybe you’d like a hair transplant or a tummy tuck? ...

Obesity Surgery

2006-11-15T20:02:00.000-08:00

Obesity surgery just the first step for many
Reuters.uk - UK
... Often, they say, a traditional "tummy tuck" is not enough,
and patients need a belt lipectomy, in which excess skin around
the whole circumference of the waist ...

Tummy Tuck, also known as Abdominoplasty
PR Leap (press release) - Chula Vista,CA,USA
(PRLEAP.COM) Charlotte Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Edward Bednar,
performs Abdominoplasty, also know as a Tummy Tuck procedure
on an out-patient basis under general ...

A New Procedure

2006-11-09T19:24:00.000-08:00

Surgery takes, replaces breast
Winnipeg Free Press (subscription) - Winnipeg,Manitoba,Canada
... While in surgery, Buchel barely flinches as he lifts up a bloody flap of stomach
fat for a tummy tuck, exposing tiny blood vessels connected to the muscle ...

A Greater Diversity...

2006-11-09T18:17:00.000-08:00

A cultural body of work
Newsday - Long Island,NY,USA
... Would she go again if she needed a little nip and tuck elsewhere? "Yes," Ortiz said.
"I'm actually thinking of a tummy tuck.". Lately ...

The Leading Clinic in Toronto

2006-11-09T08:24:00.000-08:00

Leading Cosmetic Surgery Clinic in Toronto
PR Web (press release) - Ferndale,WA,USA
... Toronto Cosmetic Clinic is home to leading physicians in gastric banding,
injectable fillers, BOTOX®, breast augmentation, and laser hair removal.

A New Person

2006-11-06T12:56:00.000-08:00

SINGLE-MINDED: As their numbers grow...
Detroit Free Press - United States
... 2004 after losing 135 pounds from bariatric surgery --
"I said if I want to find somebody I've got to make myself more attractive"
-- and having a tummy tuck.

Same skin, new person HOBART: Gastric
bypass patients hit the ...
nwitimes.com - Munster,IN,USA
... Mosqueda went from 310 pounds to 150 pounds with gastric bypass
surgery and a tummy tuck.