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Are you currently unhappy with your body? Specifically, are you self-conscious or embarrassed by your tummy? Unfortunately, gaining weight is not that difficult. Whether you put on the extra pounds due to age, stress, or genetics, it is comforting to know that options are readily available to help you achieve the body you want and deserve. After all, sometimes, diet and exercise just are not enough.

It is no secret that summer is approaching quickly. If you want to look your absolute best sitting poolside this season, then the time to make a change is now! And you are in luck, because Livingston Plastic Surgery is here to assist you.

At our Houston, TX facility, we conveniently and affordably offer cosmetic surgeries to help all patients reach their goals, whatever those goals may be. Particularly, our tummy tuck procedure will help ensure that more than just the weather will be hot this summer.

The tummy tuck process will begin with a consultation with Dr. Livingston. During this meeting, the doctor will get a better understanding of what you want to accomplish post-surgery (i.e. your wants and needs). It is common for the doctor to briefly examine you, especially your abdomen, abdominal muscles, and the condition of your skin. Though all of this may be new to you, remember, this is completely routine for Dr. Livingston. Therefore, you should feel comfortable in his presence.

Further, this is your opportunity to ask questions, and learn everything you want to know about the tummy tuck procedure. At Livingston Plastic Surgery, our entire staff wants the same thing: patient satisfaction. You should leave this consultation feeling informed and prepared for the surgery. No question is off limits.

The consultation will also give you a chance to learn about the recovery process, the overall price of the surgery, and when you can expect to see results.

The actual surgery is relatively quick and pain-free. Better yet, the tummy tuck is an outpatient procedure using only general anesthesia. The doctor will perform a horizontal incision in the lower abdomen from hipbone to hipbone. This incision will follow the bikini line, meaning it will be easy to hide.

Next, Dr. Livingston will tighten the abdomen wall using sutures placed deep within the muscle, ultimately helping to reinforce this muscle. Then, excess skin and fat will be removed, allowing for a flatter and firmer appearance.

Because pain is subjective, it is difficult to determine just how painful this surgery will be for you. However, most patients admit to only feeling slightly uncomfortable afterward. Of course, the doctor can prescribe medication to help create a smoother experience.

Following the tummy tuck procedure, it is common to be sore for a few days. You will also notice some slight bruising and swelling. It will be imperative that you get plenty of rest. You will need to avoid certain activities for a few weeks, like exercising and anything too strenuous. Dr. Livingston will let you know when it is appropriate to return to work and incorporate your daily schedule back into your life.

If you want to heal timely and accurately, then you must listen to the doctor’s orders. After the surgery, you will need to have someone around that can help you, as your main priority should be to rest.

As with any type of cosmetic surgery, there is always the possibility of risks and side effects. Yet, these risks and side effects are less likely to occur when a skilled and professional doctor, like Dr. Livingston, performs the surgery.

Common risks and side effects associated with tummy tucks often include the following:

• Numbness
• Abnormal Bruising
• Bleeding
• Scarring
• Infection

You should immediately notice a smaller and firmer abdominal region. It is typical for small drainage tubes to be placed under the skin to evacuate excess blood and fluid. It will also be necessary to wear a compression garment, which will aide in lessening the swelling and bruising.

Generally speaking, you will be able to return to work within two short weeks and start exercising again after six weeks. Then, of course, you will be ready to be poolside! If you maintain a healthy lifestyle, staying mindful of diet and exercise, then your tummy tuck results can be permanent.

Summer is almost here . . . Are you ready for it? To schedule your tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Livingston today, contact the professional staff at Livingston Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX by calling 281-501-1812.