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High BMI Tummy Tuck
in Austin, TX

High BMI Tummy Tuck
in Austin, TX
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Our plastic surgery practice in Austin specializes in high-BMI tummy tuck procedures for patients with a body mass index (BMI) between 30 and 38, though eligibility is ultimately determined at the surgeon’s discretion. This advanced technique involves comprehensive tissue removal and extended incisions to effectively address excess skin and fat. With over 25 years of expertise in body contouring, our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Venkata Erella, ensures a safe and precise approach tailored to each patient’s needs. This transformative procedure helps patients achieve a slimmer, more contoured abdomen while boosting their confidence.

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What Is a High-BMI Tummy Tuck?

A high-BMI tummy tuck, also called a plus-size tummy tuck, is a variation of a standard abdominoplasty that accommodates patients with a body mass index over 30. This surgery involves a longer incision and more extensive tissue removal to address the additional fat and skin laxity associated with excess weight. Due to the increased complexity and demands, the high-BMI tummy tuck takes approximately 2-3 hours longer than a standard procedure. It aims to create a flatter abdominal profile by removing excess tissues and tightening weakened muscles. This surgery is tailored to the unique anatomical needs of overweight patients seeking body contouring.

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Preparation for High-BMI Tummy Tuck

Preparation for a high-BMI tummy tuck begins with an initial consultation. The patient meets with Dr. Erella to discuss their goals and review their medical history. He evaluates the patient’s health, including BMI, abdominal skin laxity, and excess fat, to determine if they are a good candidate.
In preparation for surgery, Dr. Erella may require the patient to discontinue certain blood-thinning medications and supplements. Smoking cessation is also highly recommended to improve healing and reduce risks. Clear instructions will be provided on fasting, medication use, and arrangements for transportation and care after surgery.

General Anesthesia

The surgery begins with the administration of general anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure. This involves giving intravenous medications and anesthetic gas through a facemask to induce a temporary state of unconsciousness.
Dr. Erella makes a horizontal incision just above the pubic area. The cut goes from hip to hip and around the hips to the lower back to address all unwanted tissue. This opening allows the surgeon to tighten abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat.
Dr. Erella repairs belly muscles, pulling them closer together and creating a flatter, more toned appearance. This helps provide additional support to the stomach area. Stitches are used to close the fascia tissue over the muscles.
Excess fat and loose skin are trimmed from the middle and lower abdomen to create a flatter, smoother silhouette. The remaining tissue is then stretched taut and stitched for optimal results.
After removing excess skin, Dr. Erella repositions the belly button higher to create a natural, youthful appearance.
Once the desired shaping and contouring have been achieved, Dr. Erella carefully closes the vertical incisions with sutures and surgical tape or glue. Temporary drains may also be inserted to prevent fluid buildup.
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High-BMI Tummy Tuck Procedure

Recovery After High-BMI Tummy Tuck Surgery

First 24 Hours

The first day after a high-BMI tummy tuck involves managing pain and light walks around the home to prevent blood clots. Patients experience significant discomfort and swelling in the abdomen and should take prescribed medications as directed by Dr. Erella. They usually need assistance standing up, walking, and using the restroom. We recommend walking slightly bent over to avoid putting pressure on the incisions. Drains are often in place to remove excess fluid buildup. Patients should monitor drainage and record the amounts.

Week 1

During the first week, patients continue taking pain medicine as needed to reduce discomfort. Swelling increases for 2-3 days before subsiding. Bruising is common. Patients must continue walking bent at the hips to avoid pulling on incisions. Follow-up appointments allow Dr. Erella to monitor healing, change dressings, and remove drains when output is low enough. Patients should avoid lifting anything and continue light walks.

Week 2

In the second week, patients transition off prescription pain medicine. Swelling continues decreasing, but bruising may still be present. Patients can usually stand up straighter and increase walking distance. No strenuous activity is allowed, but light household chores are generally acceptable. The surgeon evaluates the healing progress and gives clearance to start scar care.

Weeks 3-6

Over the following months, swelling and bruising continue to resolve. Patients regain mobility and flexibility to stand and walk upright. Light activity can gradually increase week by week but with no heavy lifting. Dr. Erella may recommend scar treatments and a compression garment for the abdomen. Complete healing and clearance for regular activity usually occur after six weeks. However, the final results can take 3-6 months to appear.

BMI Over 30

To be considered a candidate for the high-BMI tummy tuck, people need to have a body mass index over 30, which is in the obese range. The “high BMI” designation reflects the increased risks and complexity of the surgery on overweight tummy tuck patients versus individuals who undergo less intensive procedures, such as a mini tummy tuck. Given the person’s weight, Dr. Erella takes extra precautions.
Patients who undergo a high-BMI tummy tuck typically have a significant amount of excess fat in the abdominal area. This loose tissue hangs over the waistband and may cause functional problems or discomfort. The high-BMI tummy tuck is designed to remove the overhanging pannus.
In addition to excess fat, obese patients suffer from lax, overstretched skin in the midsection. This may happen due to massive weight loss, aging, or other factors. Our tummy tuck procedures remove the excess skin that lacks elasticity. As a result, we can improve contours and make the belly look slimmer and more youthful. Although a high-BMI tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure, it may help people lose weight to some extent.
High-BMI patients often have very weak or stretched abdominal muscles under layers of body fat. Dr. Erella tightens these tissues by pulling them closer and stitching them, creating a firmer belly profile. This muscle repair is crucial for building a better shape.
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Candidates for High-BMI Tummy Tuck

A high-BMI tummy tuck can improve body contours and shape in patients with higher weight. The abdomen is flattened by removing excess skin and fat, and the waistline becomes more defined. This may help patients feel more confident about their appearance.
A high-BMI tummy tuck can significantly improve comfort levels. Removing excess skin and fat from the midsection reduces restriction and pulling when moving around. Clothing also fits more comfortably without sagging skin getting in the way. Patients report being more active without discomfort after this body contouring surgery.
In addition to the physical improvements, a high-BMI tummy tuck offers psychological perks. A slimmer figure may boost self-esteem for many individuals, making them more confident in their appearance. Our patients usually feel empowered, inspired, and proud of themselves.
Clothes drape and fit better over the improved contours after a high-BMI tummy tuck. Patients can wear fitted shirts and dresses without bulges or rolls showing through, which expands wardrobe options.
Specialized high-BMI techniques allow Dr. Erella to operate more safely on overweight patients. Careful planning and execution reduce many risks, like wound healing problems and impaired circulation, leading to better outcomes and satisfaction.
High-BMI tummy tucks achieve long-lasting improvements in body shape for overweight patients. Extensive tissue removal eliminates protruding abdomens and helps people move close to their ideal body weight. They can enjoy a slimmer profile for many years.
A high-BMI tummy tuck can improve body contours and shape in patients with higher weight. The abdomen is flattened by removing excess skin and fat, and the waistline becomes more defined. This may help patients feel more confident about their appearance.
A high-BMI tummy tuck can significantly improve comfort levels. Removing excess skin and fat from the midsection reduces restriction and pulling when moving around. Clothing also fits more comfortably without sagging skin getting in the way. Patients report being more active without discomfort after this body contouring surgery.
In addition to the physical improvements, a high-BMI tummy tuck offers psychological perks. A slimmer figure may boost self-esteem for many individuals, making them more confident in their appearance. Our patients usually feel empowered, inspired, and proud of themselves.
Clothes drape and fit better over the improved contours after a high-BMI tummy tuck. Patients can wear fitted shirts and dresses without bulges or rolls showing through, which expands wardrobe options.
Specialized high-BMI techniques allow Dr. Erella to operate more safely on overweight patients. Careful planning and execution reduce many risks, like wound healing problems and impaired circulation, leading to better outcomes and satisfaction.
High-BMI tummy tucks achieve long-lasting improvements in body shape for overweight patients. Extensive tissue removal eliminates protruding abdomens and helps people move close to their ideal body weight. They can enjoy a slimmer profile for many years.

Benefits of High-BMI Tummy Tuck

Cost of High-BMI Tummy Tuck in Austin, TX

The cost of a high-BMI tummy tuck in Austin ranges from $7,000 to $15,000. This procedure is more complex and takes longer than a standard abdominoplasty, so the costs are usually higher. Factors influencing the price include the surgeon’s experience and credentials, the extent of correction needed, and whether the person has previous scarring that requires revision. Patients can receive accurate price quotes after a physical examination by Dr. Erella. We also offer flexible financing options to make payments for high-BMI tummy tucks more convenient.
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What Makes Our Plastic Surgery Different From Others?

Aspira Plastic Surgery & Med Spa stands apart from other providers due to our specialized high-BMI tummy tuck procedures. Dr. Venkata Erella is board-certified and brings over 25 years of expertise, focusing on post-weight-loss body contouring. Named one of America’s Top Surgeons, Dr. Erella offers highly personalized care from consultation to recovery. He meets one-on-one with each patient, takes time to understand their goals and medical history, explains procedures thoroughly, and develops customized surgical plans. Dr. Erella prioritizes patient safety, aiming to provide natural-looking results and excellent care at every step. This personalized approach and wealth of specialized expertise make our team unique and sought after by many people from all over the state.

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