Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Cleveland, OH
Are you struggling with a protruding abdomen or loose, hanging skin that simply won’t respond to diet and exercise? Many life events—including pregnancy, significant weight fluctuations, and massive weight loss—can cause the abdominal muscles to separate and the skin to lose its elasticity. Once the “inner girdle” of the abdominal wall is stretched, no amount of time in the gym can fully restore a flat profile.
A tummy tuck, commonly known as abdominoplasty, is a popular procedure performed by Dr. Rodney Green at his Cleveland plastic surgery practice. This surgery is designed to restore an attractive abdomen shape after events such as pregnancy or massive weight loss. A tummy tuck is typically recommended when diet and exercise cannot improve the abdomen’s contour, as they cannot address abdominal wall tissue laxity.
What is a Tummy Tuck? (The Science of Core Repair)
A tummy tuck is more than just skin removal. It is a comprehensive structural repair of the midsection. While liposuction focuses solely on fat removal, a tummy tuck addresses the three pillars of abdominal aging:
- Muscle Laxity: Repairing the “Diastasis Recti” (separated muscles).
- Skin Excess: Removing the “apron” of skin that often hangs over the waistline.
- Stubborn Fat: Contouring the flanks and abdomen for a narrower waist.
Why Choose Dr. Green? The "No-Drain" Advantage
One of the biggest concerns patients have regarding tummy tucks is the use of post-surgical drains. Dr. Green utilizes a sophisticated No-Drain Technique combined with a Progressive Tension Suture (PTS) method.
How it works: Dr. Green meticulously stitches the skin flap to the underlying muscles from the inside. This eliminates “dead space” where fluid (seroma) typically collects.
The Benefit: You wake up without cumbersome, painful tubes hanging from your incisions. This significantly simplifies your recovery, reduces the risk of infection, and results in a finer, more aesthetic scar.
Who is the Ideal Candidate?
Tummy tuck surgery is a deeply rewarding procedure, but candidacy is key to a safe result:
- Post-Pregnancy Mothers: Women looking to repair muscle separation and remove “baby pooch” skin.
- Massive Weight Loss Patients: Individuals left with hanging skin after losing a significant amount of weight.
- Healthy Non-Smokers: Candidates should be in good health, maintain a stable weight, and be nicotine-free (as smoking severely hinders skin healing).
- Reasonable Expectations: While a tummy tuck dramatically improves your shape, it is a body contouring procedure, not a weight-loss surgery.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Your surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at Legacy Surgery Center, where Dr. Green serves as the Medical Director, ensuring the highest standards of safety and care.
- The Incision: Dr. Green makes a strategic horizontal incision. He places it low enough that it is easily concealed beneath a bikini bottom or underwear.
- Muscle Repair: He tightens the abdominal wall muscles in a side-to-side fashion. This acts like an internal corset, narrowing your waist and flattening your profile.
- The Belly Button (Umbilicoplasty): Dr. Green uses a specialized inverted U-flap technique. This prevents the “constricted” look common in lesser techniques, ensuring your belly button looks natural and youthful in its new position.
- Liposuction Contouring: To ensure a seamless transition between the abdomen and hips, Dr. Green often incorporates liposuction to remove stubborn fat pockets.
What Can a Tummy Tuck Achieve?
A tummy tuck enhances the contour and appearance of a protruding abdomen by:
- Removing loose, hanging skin
- Tightening the remaining abdominal skin
- Eliminating excess fat
- Repairing weakened or separated abdominal wall muscles
- Narrowing the waist
Tummy tuck surgery often improves the appearance of stretch marks on the lower abdomen, as these marks are more obvious on loose skin. After a tummy tuck, your abdomen will look flatter and firmer, making clothing and swimwear fit better and boosting self-confidence.
Important Note on Your Recovery & Results
Every individual’s body is unique, and as such, recovery timelines and final aesthetic results will vary from patient to patient. Factors such as your natural anatomy, skin elasticity, and how closely you follow post-operative instructions will influence your healing journey.
While Dr. Green and our team are here to support you every step of the way, your safety is a partnership. It is vital that you contact our office immediately at 440-449-8880 if you notice any unusual symptoms, such as excessive pain, unexpected swelling, redness, or fever. Early communication ensures we can provide the necessary guidance to keep your recovery on track.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
Will a tummy tuck get rid of my stretch marks?
Yes, frequently. Because the skin below the belly button is usually removed during a full tummy tuck, the stretch marks in that area are removed along with it.
Can I have a tummy tuck if I want more children?
It is medically safe, but we generally recommend waiting until you are finished with childbearing. A future pregnancy can stretch the muscles and skin again, potentially undoing the results of your surgery.
What is the difference between a Full and Mini Tummy Tuck?
A Full Tummy Tuck addresses skin and muscle above and below the belly button. A Mini Tummy Tuck is for patients with a small amount of loose skin strictly below the navel and does not require moving the belly button.
How long does the result last?
As long as you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle, the results of a tummy tuck are permanent.
Consultation Checklist: Questions to Ask Dr. Green
- Am I a candidate for the No-Drain technique?
- Do I need a Full Tummy Tuck or a Mini Tummy Tuck to reach my goals?
- How will my belly button be reshaped?
- Can I see before and after photos of patients with a similar body type to mine?
Achieve Your Dream Body With Our Experienced Surgical Team
We understand that your body is unique, and your goals for surgery are too. That’s why we offer a variety of surgical procedures to help you achieve your desired results.
Dr. Rodney Green is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality care and support. We will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your individual needs and expectations.
Call us at 440-449-8880 or email us at drgreen@dr-rodgreen.com to take the first step toward the body of your dreams. to take the first step toward the body of your dreams.