Tummy Tuck Seattle

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. It's not a weight loss procedure - instead, it's designed to address issues that can't be fixed through diet and exercise alone, such as:

• Loose, sagging skin that hangs over your waistband
• Stretch marks, especially those below the belly button
• Separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
• A protruding belly despite being at a healthy weight
• Poor skin elasticity due to aging or genetics

The procedure is particularly popular among mothers who want to restore their pre-pregnancy figure as part of a mommy makeover, but it's also a good option for anyone who has lost significant weight or simply wants a flatter, more contoured abdomen.

Not every patient has the same concern. Dr. Sajan offers several different types of tummy tuck to meet different needs:

Full Tummy Tuck

The traditional or full tummy tuck is the most comprehensive option. It addresses the entire abdominal area from the pubic region to just below the rib cage. During this procedure, Dr. Sajan:

• Makes a horizontal incision from hip to hip, typically placed low enough to be hidden by underwear or a swimsuit
• Creates a second incision around the navel to free it from surrounding tissue
• Separates the skin from the abdominal wall up to the ribs
• Tightens separated or weakened muscles with permanent sutures
• Removes excess skin and fat
• Repositions the remaining skin for a smooth, flat appearance
• Creates a new opening for the belly button

This procedure is ideal for patients with significant skin laxity and muscle separation throughout the entire abdomen.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck can be a suitable option for patients who only have concerns below the navel. This less invasive option involves:

• A shorter incision (usually 6-8 inches)
• No repositioning of the belly button
• Removal of excess skin in the lower abdomen only
• Limited muscle tightening if needed
• Shorter surgery time and recovery period

Mini tummy tucks often work well for people who are generally fit but have a stubborn lower belly pouch that won't go away.

Extended Tummy Tuck

For patients who have lost massive amounts of weight or have excess skin extending to the sides and back, an extended tummy tuck may be recommended. This procedure:

• Uses a longer incision that extends around the hips
• Removes skin from the abdomen and flanks
• Can improve the appearance of the lower back
• Often combined with liposuction for optimal contouring

Drainless Tummy Tuck

Dr. Sajan specializes in the drainless tummy tuck technique, which is designed to eliminate the need for post-surgical drains. Traditional tummy tucks require drains to prevent fluid buildup, but Dr. Sajan uses progressive tension sutures to close the space where fluid might accumulate. Benefits can include:

• No drain maintenance or removal
• More comfortable recovery
• Ability to shower immediately
• Lower risk of complications
• Faster return to normal activities

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, ideal tummy tuck candidates:

• Are at or near their ideal body weight (BMI under 30)
• Have maintained a stable weight for at least 6 months
• Are non-smokers or willing to quit
• Have realistic expectations about results
• Are in good overall health
• Have completed their family (for women)
• Have excess skin or weakened muscles that don't respond to exercise

It's important to understand that a tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss. If you're planning to lose significant weight, it's best to reach your goal weight first. Similarly, women planning future pregnancies should wait, as pregnancy can undo the results of the surgery.

Your Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Sajan. During this appointment, he will:

• Review your medical history and current medications
• Examine your abdomen and assess skin quality, fat deposits, and muscle tone
• Discuss your goals and expectations
• Recommend the most suitable type of tummy tuck for your needs
• Explain the procedure in detail
• Show you before and after photos of similar patients
• Provide a detailed cost estimate
• Answer all your questions

Preparing for Surgery

Once you decide to proceed, you'll receive detailed pre-operative instructions. General preparation includes:

• Lab testing or medical clearance as required
• Adjusting current medications
• Stopping smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery
• Avoiding aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs
• Arranging for someone to drive you home and stay with you the first night
• Setting up a comfortable recovery area at home
• Purchasing recommended supplies like compression garments

Day of Surgery

On surgery day, you'll arrive at our JCAHO-accredited surgical facility where:

• Pre-operative photos will be taken
• Dr. Sajan will mark your abdomen while you're standing
• You'll meet with the anesthesiologist
• An IV will be placed for medications and fluids
• You'll receive general anesthesia for your comfort

The surgery typically takes 2-4 hours depending on the extent of the procedure. Dr. Sajan follows strict surgical safety protocols to minimize any risks.

The Recovery Process

Recovery is a crucial part of achieving excellent results. Here's what you can expect:

First Week:

• Moderate discomfort managed with prescribed pain medication
• Wearing a compression garment 24/7
• Limited movement - you'll walk hunched over initially
• No lifting, straining, or strenuous activity
• First follow-up appointment to check healing

Weeks 2-4:

• Gradual improvement in comfort and mobility
• Possible return to desk work
• Light walking encouraged
• Continued compression garment use
• Scar care begins

Weeks 4-8:

• Most swelling subsides
• Increased activity levels
• Clearance for light exercise
• Feeling more like yourself

3-6 Months:

• Final results become apparent
• Scars continue to fade
• Full exercise and activities resumed
• Enjoying your new contours

The benefits of abdominoplasty can extend beyond appearance. Patients often notice:

Physical Benefits:

• Removal of excess skin that causes rashes or hygiene issues
• Repair of separated abdominal muscles
• Improved posture and core strength
• Reduction in back pain
• Ability to exercise more comfortably
• Better fitting clothes

Emotional Benefits:

• Increased self-confidence
• Improved body image
• Greater comfort in intimate situations
• Motivation to maintain results through healthy lifestyle
• Feeling like yourself again

Like any surgery, tummy tucks carry some risks. Dr. Sajan takes every precaution to minimize complications, but it's important to understand potential risks:

Common side effects:

• Swelling and bruising
• Temporary numbness
• Tight sensation in the abdomen
• Fatigue during recovery
• Visible scarring (which fades over time)

Rare complications:

• Infection
• Blood clots
• Poor wound healing
• Fluid accumulation (seroma)
• Unsatisfactory results requiring revision

Dr. Sajan will discuss these risks in detail during your consultation and explain how his techniques minimize complications.

One of the biggest concerns patients have is scarring. While a tummy tuck does leave a permanent scar, Dr. Sajan uses advanced techniques to ensure scars are:

• Placed low on the abdomen where underwear or swimsuits hide them
• As thin and flat as possible
• Treated with our comprehensive scar management protocol

Scar appearance improves significantly over time. Most patients find that the trade-off of a well-hidden scar for a flat, toned abdomen is well worth it. We provide detailed scar care instructions and treatments to optimize healing.

Many patients choose to combine their tummy tuck with other procedures for more comprehensive results:

Liposuction

Adding liposuction to the flanks, thighs, or other areas can enhance your overall body contour and create better proportions.

Breast Surgery

As part of a mommy makeover, combining a tummy tuck with breast augmentation or lift addresses multiple areas in one surgery.

Brazilian Butt Lift

Fat removed during liposuction can be transferred to the buttocks for enhanced curves.

Combining procedures means one recovery period and may provide cost savings compared to separate surgeries.

The cost of a tummy tuck varies based on several factors:

• Type of tummy tuck (mini, full, or extended)
• Whether liposuction is included
• Facility and anesthesia fees
• Geographic location
• Surgeon's experience and expertise

At Allure Esthetic, a full tummy tuck starts at $10,950. This includes:

• Surgeon's fee
• Surgical facility costs
• Anesthesia fees
• Post-operative garments
• Follow-up appointments

We offer various financing options to make your procedure more accessible. During your consultation, you'll receive a detailed quote specific to your needs.

A tummy tuck can provide long-lasting results, but maintaining them requires commitment:

• Stable Weight: Significant weight fluctuations can affect your results
• Healthy Diet: Proper nutrition supports healing and maintenance
• Regular Exercise: Once cleared, exercise helps maintain muscle tone
• Pregnancy: Future pregnancies can undo results, so timing is important
• Aging: Natural aging continues, but improvements remain relative to baseline

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important to preserving surgical results.