Las Vegas, Nevada
Introduction
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Las Vegas and Henderson, NV
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that augments the contouring of the abdomen. It is popular among both men and women and offers a chance to streamline the stomach.
Post-bariatric patients who have undergone significant weight loss or women who have been pregnant often must contend with loose and sagging skin in the abdominal region, including hanging skin and wrinkled skin that hangs unflatteringly from their frame. But a tummy tuck can help.
At Las Vegas Body Sculpting (LVBS), board-certified plastic surgeon Mustafa Ahmed, MD, performs state-of-the-art tummy tuck procedures for men and women in the Las Vegas Valley. A tummy tuck is a form of aesthetic plastic surgery designed to improve body contour and restore confidence. For more information on all our procedures, read Dr. Ahmed’s blog.
Abdominoplasty’s cosmetic outcomes are not achievable through diet and exercise alone. As a cosmetic procedure, a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is designed to enhance body contours and provide aesthetic improvement that cannot be achieved by non-surgical means. While a tummy tuck is an extensive procedure that requires some downtime, the results are satisfying for the vast majority of female and male patients.
Also known as abdominoplasty, a traditional tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin while strengthening and tightening the separated muscles of the abdominal wall. The procedure repairs abdominal muscles, repositions the remaining skin, and can remove stretch marks located on the lower abdomen, resulting in a smoother, firmer, and more toned stomach. This cosmetic procedure is powerful and transformative for body contouring. Pregnant women and weight-loss patients are the most common candidates for a tummy tuck, but the aging process and genetic factors can also contribute to loose, sagging skin in the abdomen. It is important to note that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss surgery; tummy tuck candidates should be at or near their ideal, stable weight before the operation. Maintaining a stable weight is crucial, as significant weight gain or pregnancy after surgery can affect the results. Patients are encouraged to avoid weight gain and maintain a healthy lifestyle to preserve their outcomes.
Las Vegas offers various tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) options, including traditional, mini, extended (High Lateral Tension Abdominoplasty), and fleur-de-lis methods. A full tummy tuck involves an incision along the pubic bone, extending from hip bone to hip bone, and an additional incision around the navel. A mini tummy tuck uses a smaller incision along the pubic bone and is less invasive, typically requiring a shorter recovery time. The extended tummy tuck tightens skin both horizontally and vertically across the abdomen, accentuates the hips, and cinches the waistline for a more hourglass figure. The fleur-de-lis method is another option available in Las Vegas for patients with significant excess skin. During the procedure, the surgeon uses anatomical landmarks, such as the hip bones and the pubic bone, to guide incision placement and achieve optimal results.
If you’re considering a tummy tuck, direct patient care and consultations with several surgeons are advised to personalize the tummy tuck approach. Women are advised to wait until after childbirth or after completing their family before undergoing a tummy tuck to avoid compromising results. The results of a tummy tuck are generally permanent, but significant weight gain or pregnancy can affect the outcome. Call (702) 447-1257 to schedule your personal consultation.
A mini-tummy tuck offers results similar to a full tummy tuck but uses a smaller incision, is less invasive, and typically requires a shorter recovery time. The incision for a mini tummy tuck is typically made just above the pubic bone. The only difference is that patients who undergo a mini-tummy tuck procedure have less resistant abdominal fat, and aesthetic concerns are concentrated below the navel. A mini-tummy tuck can help people at or near their target weight flatten a “pooch.” It may also minimize stretch marks located on excess skin. Performed with liposuction, the procedure can also achieve a more defined, sculpted appearance, with high patient satisfaction.
A mini-tummy tuck cannot correct diastasis recti, a condition common in many pregnant and postpartum women. Diastasis recti involves the separation of the abdominal muscles. Because this condition often affects both the upper and lower abdomen, a full tummy tuck is a better option to treat this condition.
Surgery Time: Approximately 2–4 hours, depending on the extent of correction
Price: ~ Varies based on surgical complexity and combination procedures. For an accurate cost, please ask during your consultation.
Recovery: Most patients return to light activity within 10–14 days, with full activity resumed in 6–8 weeks
Results: Immediate improvement with continued refinement as swelling resolves; final results are visible within 3–6 months
A tummy tuck will tailor your body so that you can feel comfortable in your own skin. If you have recently lost weight or have had children, you owe it to yourself to look and feel your best.
The advantages of abdominoplasty:
Many patients report increased self-confidence and satisfaction with their appearance after a tummy tuck.
The best tummy tuck candidates are individuals who have lost significant weight, have excess skin or stubborn fat in the abdominal area, or have experienced changes in their body after pregnancy. Tummy tuck candidates should be in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and maintain a stable weight before and after surgery to ensure optimal results and minimize complications. It is important to note that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss surgery; candidates should be close to their ideal weight before the operation. Women are advised to wait until after childbirth or after they have completed their family before undergoing a tummy tuck to avoid compromising the results.
A tummy tuck can be beneficial for those who:
Dr. Ahmed will assess your individual needs, body type, and goals to determine whether a tummy tuck is the right procedure for you and ensure the best possible outcome.
Dr. Mustafa Ahmed is an experienced surgeon who comes from a long tradition of excellence. He earned his medical degree from the Ohio State University College of Medicine in Columbus. Dr. Ahmed went on to refine his skills and knowledge through residencies in internal medicine at Mount Carmel Medical Center in Columbus and in general surgery at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta. You’ll have a lot to learn from the doctor. More importantly, he will have a lot to learn from you.
Your personal consultation with Dr. Ahmed is your opportunity to communicate your aesthetic goals. Based on this information, he will recommend the best treatment for your sagging abdominal skin. Our grateful patients’ glowing reviews affirm that they made the right choice with Dr. Ahmed.
Preparing for a tummy tuck involves several key steps to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. First, you’ll have a detailed consultation with Dr. Ahmed to discuss your goals, medical history, and any potential risk factors. You’ll need to stop smoking at least a few weeks before the surgery, as smoking can impede the healing process. Dr. Ahmed may also recommend temporarily adjusting your medications, especially those that can increase bleeding. Additionally, it’s crucial to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from the surgery and help you during your initial recovery period. Following Dr. Ahmed’s preoperative instructions closely will contribute to a more successful outcome.
A tummy tuck takes about three hours. Dr. Ahmed shall perform the procedure while you are under general anesthesia. We create a horizontal incision on your lower abdomen and then separate the skin from the underlying tissue. Another incision will encircle your navel. Loose skin and fat are trimmed away from the abdominal region, and the underlying muscles of the abdominal wall are repaired with sutures.
During the same procedure, we often perform liposuction in adjacent areas to provide a slimmer body shape. Dr. Ahmed then closes the incisions using stitches, skin adhesives, or clips. Small drainage tubes will likely be placed to help drain excess fluid from swelling after a tummy tuck. Your midsection will be wrapped in gauze and an elastic bandage to aid healing, and you will be sent home wearing an abdominal compression garment (compression device) to help control swelling and support the abdominal region during recovery.
After tummy tuck surgery, you can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area for several days. Bruising and swelling are perfectly normal after a tummy tuck and will subside after a few weeks. Most patients experience moderate pain in the first few days, which should subside after 1-2 weeks. You will need to wear a compression garment for several weeks after surgery to help reduce swelling and support healing. We will provide you with specific aftercare instructions and prescription pain medication to manage discomfort. It is important to sleep on your back with your head and torso elevated to minimize pressure on your stomach. You should be up and walking within a few days, but strenuous physical activity will be postponed for several weeks. You may need assistance with basic household tasks for the first week, and if you have recently given birth, you may need help caring for your children for the first week or two. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely to ensure the best possible outcome.
The recovery time is about 10 to 14 days. Swelling and bruising will gradually subside, and the incision lines will fade and flatten out over time. Therefore, it may take several months to appreciate the outcome of your tummy tuck.
Post-surgery recovery is essential to achieving the desired results. Dr. Ahmed will provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing.
A tummy tuck is a body-contouring procedure tailored to your needs. During your personal consultation, Dr. Ahmed or another medical professional will perform a brief physical examination to gather relevant information. We will also conduct an intake interview to assess your health history and aesthetic goals. At this time, the patient coordinator will provide you with your surgical quote.
Dr. Mustafa Ahmed, MD, FACS, FAACS, is a triple board-certified physician and a fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery, specializing in tummy tucks. With a strong passion for aesthetic care, he is proud to help patients in Southern Nevada achieve their body contouring goals at Las Vegas Body Sculpting and Aesthetics. Dr. Ahmed understands the importance of choosing the right surgeon for such a transformative procedure, as tummy tucks require skill and precision. His extensive training ensures you get the best possible results while prioritizing your safety and well-being.
After earning his medical degree from Ohio State University College of Medicine, Dr. Ahmed honed his expertise through internal medicine and general surgery residencies. He is affiliated with the American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM), the American Board of Surgery (ABS), the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (FAACS), the American College of Surgeons (FACS), the American Medical Association (AMA), the American College of Physicians (ACP), and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), and his triple board certification in internal medicine, surgery, and surgical critical care contributes to his high level of skill and makes him one of the most trusted tummy tuck surgeons in Las Vegas.
Dr. Ahmed takes the time to listen to your unique goals and creates a personalized treatment plan to achieve the tummy tuck results you desire. Your satisfaction and safety are always his top priority.
If you’re considering tummy tuck surgery, we encourage you to visit our Las Vegas Valley cosmetic surgery office for a personal consultation. Our staff is kind, responsive, and respectful of your needs, and they can answer many of your preliminary questions about the abdominoplasty procedure. During a tummy tuck consultation, cosmetic surgeon Dr. Mustafa Ahmed can address your questions and discuss the procedure in detail. Call our Las Vegas-area office at (702) 447-1257 to schedule your confidential consultation today.
I have used Dr. Mustafa Ahmed for two different surgeries now. First my bariatric surgery and second a tummy tuck with lipo surgery. Dr. Ahmed is a highly skilled surgeon, that changes peoples lives by giving them amazing results with the medical procedures he preforms. He cares deeply about each of his patients outcomes and maintains consistent follow-ups post surgery to make sure his clients achieve the best results possible. His staff is professional and will go above and beyond to help meet all needs a client might have and make them feel comfortable. I personally have and do trust Dr. Ahmed and his staff completely. – A big thank you to Dr. Ahmed &Staff!!!