Our Summary

This research paper talks about a technique used during ’tummy tuck’ surgery to make the belly button look good and prevent it from getting too small. The researchers used an earplug to keep the belly button open while it healed. They tried this method on 21 women between 2015 and 2017. After the surgery, the women and their surgeons were all very happy with the size of the belly button, which was between 1.8 and 2.2 cm. The researchers concluded that using an earplug in this way is a simple and effective method to make the belly button look nice and prevent it from getting too small after a ’tummy tuck'.

FAQs

  1. What is the technique used during a ’tummy tuck’ surgery to prevent the belly button from getting too small?
  2. What was used to keep the belly button open while it healed after a ’tummy tuck’ surgery?
  3. What were the results of the research study on using an earplug during ’tummy tuck’ surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tummy tuck surgery is to discuss with their surgeon the use of techniques, such as using an earplug to keep the belly button open during healing, to ensure a more aesthetically pleasing result. It is important to have open communication with your surgeon about your goals and concerns to achieve the best possible outcome.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, are those who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that cannot be improved through diet and exercise alone. This procedure is often recommended for individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight, women who have had multiple pregnancies, or individuals who have loose skin and stretch marks due to aging or genetics.

Candidates for a tummy tuck should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery. It is important for patients to be at a stable weight before undergoing a tummy tuck, as significant weight fluctuations after the procedure can affect the results.

Individuals who are considering a tummy tuck should consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. The surgeon will evaluate the patient’s medical history, physical health, and aesthetic goals to determine if a tummy tuck is the right option for them.

Timeline

Before tummy tuck surgery:

  1. Patient consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals and expectations
  2. Pre-operative evaluations and tests to ensure the patient is a good candidate for surgery
  3. Patient may be advised to stop smoking and avoid certain medications to reduce risks during surgery
  4. Patient will receive instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting before the procedure

During tummy tuck surgery:

  1. Patient undergoes anesthesia and the surgeon makes incisions to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area
  2. Muscles may be tightened to create a more toned appearance
  3. Belly button may be repositioned or reshaped as part of the procedure
  4. Surgery typically takes 2-5 hours to complete

After tummy tuck surgery:

  1. Patient will need to stay in the hospital for monitoring or may be discharged the same day, depending on the extent of the surgery
  2. Patient will experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the abdominal area, which can be managed with pain medication
  3. Patient will need to wear a compression garment to support the healing tissues and reduce swelling
  4. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing progress and remove any sutures or drains
  5. Patient will gradually resume normal activities and may be advised to avoid strenuous exercise for several weeks
  6. Final results of the tummy tuck surgery will be visible once swelling subsides, typically within 6-12 months after the procedure.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with a tummy tuck procedure?

  2. How long is the recovery period after a tummy tuck surgery?

  3. Will there be scarring after the tummy tuck procedure and how can it be minimized?

  4. How long do the results of a tummy tuck typically last?

  5. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes I should make before or after the tummy tuck surgery?

  6. What type of anesthesia will be used during the tummy tuck procedure and what are the potential side effects?

  7. How many tummy tuck procedures have you performed and what is your success rate?

  8. Will I need to have any follow-up appointments after the tummy tuck surgery?

  9. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that may achieve similar results to a tummy tuck?

  10. How much does a tummy tuck procedure typically cost and are there any financing options available?

Reference

Authors: Kachare S, Kapsalis C, Kachare M, Hiller A, Abell S, Lee TJ, Wilhelmi BJ. Journal: Eplasty. 2019 Apr 12;19:e12. eCollection 2019. PMID: 31024638