1. Does A Tummy Tuck Require Drains?
Most of the time, Dr. Sajan is able to avoid placing drains after a tummy tuck. However, in some cases, they will be necessary. Various surgical techniques and post-operative care allow Dr. Sajan to perform drainless tummy tuck surgeries. During a consultation, he can provide an idea of whether or not a patient may require drains during recovery.
2. Is There An Alternative To A Tummy Tuck Scar?
It depends. For patients with hanging skin, there unfortunately is not a viable alternative. If a patient has only mild extra skin or otherwise good quality skin, certain skin tightening procedures such as J plasma and/or Vaser may be options.
Patients who Dr. Sajan determines would best benefit from Bellevue abdominoplasty surgery will not see optimal results without some extent of abdominal skin removal. Thankfully, tummy tuck scars are attempted to be made extremely low on the abdomen. For patients who have C-section scars, the tummy tuck incision is usually below it and will often remove it. Therefore, most underwear, swimsuits, and clothing will often conceal a tummy tuck scar.
3. Does The Pubic Area Get Lifted With A Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck may lift the pubic area, or mons pubis, slightly. However, if a patient wants to address this area, it is easily achieved through the same incision. It is not uncommon for a sagging stomach to cause the pubic area to also sag or protrude. Dr. Sajan can remedy this at the same time as a Bellevue tummy tuck by also performing a mons pubis lift at the same time as the tummy tuck.
4. What Qualifies You For A Panniculectomy vs. Tummy Tuck?
A panniculectomy and tummy tuck surgery are similar and frequently mistaken for one another. They both are lower abdominal skin removal procedures, but there are slight differences.
First, a panniculectomy is considered a medical procedure and is often covered by insurance. It addresses a “pannus” or “apron” belly where the stomach significantly hangs and may even reach the genitals or thighs. Obviously, this can cause problems and needs to be addressed. A panniculectomy does not tighten the abdominal muscles and it is not focused on providing a cosmetic result.
A tummy tuck—while sometimes combined with a panniculectomy—almost always corrects diastasis recti. The skin removal also extends above the belly button. Though, an abdominoplasty removes minimal tissue other than skin, unless liposuction is performed. The primary objective of tummy tuck Bellevue surgery is to achieve a flatter and smoother stomach contour.
Patients can be candidates for both procedures. However, many tummy tuck patients—even those with significant extra skin—will not need a panniculectomy to obtain a good result.
5. How Much Is A Tummy Tuck Bellevue Surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery cost in Bellevue with Dr. Javad Sajan starts at $14,995. The exact cost will depend on if other procedures are involved and other specifics of the surgery. Outside financing is available through Care Credit, Alphaeon Credit, and United Medical Credit.
Patients will receive a personalized and finalized price quote at their consultation appointment. They can also inquire more about possible financing options.