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(HealthNewsDigest.com) – Most people prefer non-surgical treatments, whenever possible. After all, no one enjoys the thought of surgery with a lengthy downtime and uncomfortable recovery. In some cases, non-invasive procedures offer comparable results for patients who want mild to moderate correction, but there are times in which non-invasive options cannot compare to surgical intervention.
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a common procedure that eliminates loose skin on the abdomen and restores a sleeker, fitter appearance. Laser skin tightening, on the other hand, is a non-invasive procedure that works to boost collagen production to tighten skin naturally over the course of months. Many people considering an abdominoplasty wonder if skin tightening would provide comparable results without the surgery.
The truth is, while some patients have great results with skin tightening on the abdomen, this non-invasive procedure really provides the best results when used on the face, neck and upper arms. Laser tightening will not offer substantial results, but it may be a good option for women who have a very mild amount of loose skin, especially an abdomen that looks tight and flat until they bend over.
Abdominoplasty is performed through an incision between the hip bones, where it will be concealed by underwear or a swimsuit. Through this incision, the surgeon will first tighten muscles that have become lax due to weight gain or especially pregnancy. This is a benefit that laser tightening does not offer. Next, the surgeon will pull down the excess skin toward the incision and remove excess skin and fat. This procedure can remove pounds of excess skin for a significant improvement. As an added bonus, a tummy tuck can remove many stretch marks below the belly button to improve not only skin laxity but also the appearance of the skin itself.
In virtually all cases of excessive skin on the abdomen, a tummy tuck is the best procedure. Laser techniques, while revolutionary and effective, only work best for specific problems. Nothing can replace the skill and experience of a surgeon. Abdominoplasty can make a significant difference in the contour of the abdomen by addressing a moderate to significant amount of skin while also tightening the core ab muscles. The trade-off for these benefits is a scar, although it will be well-hidden under clothing.
If the amount of loose skin is mild to moderate, and the patient wants a smaller scar, a mini tummy tuck may also be an option. This procedure results in a scar that is indistinguishable from a C-section scar with excellent results for the right patient.
Dr. Dan Shapiro is a renowned Scottsdale, Arizona plastic surgeon in practice for more than 20 years. Dr. Shapiro is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and combines aesthetic vision with meticulous surgical expertise to produce superior results for patients.
Daniel I. Shapiro, MD
Shapiro Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
5410 N. Scottsdale Road, Building F-100
Scottsdale, AZ 85253
480-451-1700
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