Tummy Tuck: New and Improved
A firm, flat tummy with no loose, over-hanging skin is an ideal often not reflected in the mirror, expecially after child bearing or dramatic weight loss. Improvements in abdominoplasty (commonly called a “tummy tuck”) have been significant in the years since I was in training in plastic surgery. For the past 6 years I have been using a technique that I learned from Dr. Jean Francois Pascal, a talented plastic surgeon in Lyon, France. The method results in a much improved circulation of the skin of the abdomen, which means better healing. It also means that liposuction can safely be incorporated into a tummy tuck when needed, which was not safe with previous techniques. I find it also gives a much better shape to the abdomen, avoiding the “expressionless abdomen” often associated with traditional techniques. As an added bonus, no drains are needed (everybody hates drains), and if absorbable sutures are used, there are no stitches to be removed. I am seeing less swelling and less bruising than I saw prior to adopting this method. Thank you Jean Francois!
Mark D. Ball, M.D., F.A.C.S.
