Recovery Time for Rhinoplasty (Nose Jobs)

February 9, 2018/in Nose Job, Rhinoplasty /by admin

How Long is Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Recovery Time?

Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed hundreds of rhinoplasty surgeries – giving women and men the attractive nose they have always wanted. However, many patients are concerned about, or have questions regarding, the recovery time for rhinoplasty surgery.

In this article we discuss how long rhinoplasty recovery takes, and how quickly you can get back to your normal activities.

Is there pain after rhinoplasty surgery?

Most patients that undergo the rhinoplasty procedure experience a mild pressure above the nose for about two hours after the procedure. From there on after, the patients do not experience any pain. The post-operative period is painless, although pain medication is usually given in case the patient has some discomfort.

What is the recovery like after a nose job?

Many people still erroneously have an outdated idea of rhinoplasty from the “original” nose jobs performed a few decades ago – which often left people looking like they lost a prize fight. Thanks to modern technology, today’s rhinoplasty surgery has a must faster and easier recovery period.

The recovery for rhinoplasty today is actually rather mild. You will be allowed to return home after the procedure. Some surgical swelling and inflammation is unavoidable with any surgery, but a good aftercare routine will minimize the inflammatory effects and swelling and optimize the cosmetic outcome.

You will typically be required to wear a nasal splint for the first 7 to 10 days after your rhinoplasty. After your rhinoplasty, you may have moderate swelling and some bruising around your eyes that could last up to two weeks. Everybody heals differently – and some people have very little swelling and almost no bruising. Others may have a “black eye” effect for a week or two.

Many patients ask Dr. Ali about the old-fashioned and uncomfortable “packing” that used to be associated with nose jobs. In the vast majority of today’s rhinoplasty surgeries “packing” the nasal passages is no longer required.

When can I resume activities after rhinoplasty?

Dr. Ali will advise you know when it is safe for you to return to your daily activities. Rest and relaxation are strongly advised during the first week after surgery to facilitate recovery, as well as minimize bruising and swelling.

In most cases, a patient should also avoid strenuous activity for up to four weeks after your surgery. This is important for a number of reasons. In addition to not wanting to disrupt or shift the nasal bones or cartilage before they heal into place, it is also essential to keep your blood pressure from rising – which can cause nosebleeds and aggravate swelling.

Typically patients can begin easing into gentle or moderate exercise three weeks after having the surgery, waiting four to six weeks to attempt anything vigorous or strenuous.

Patients are generally able to return to work about one week after the rhinoplasty procedure, at most jobs. However, if your jobs requires physical exertion you may need an additional two or three weeks before returning to full work activity.

Can I wear glasses after a nose job?

You can wear your eye glasses on top of your splint or cast during your first week of recovery. However, once the cast is removed you should avoid wearing glasses directly on your nose for up to six weeks after surgery. This includes sunglasses!

This is because the weight of your glasses can shift your healing nasal bones and cartilage before they heal into place.

However, in cases where a controlled bone fracture wasn’t performed during the rhinoplasty, a patient can typically wear glasses at any time. If you wear glasses (or sunglasses) Dr. Ali will advise you specifically when you can resume wearing them.

Birmingham’s Best Nose Job Surgeon

If you are considering a nose job, call Birmingham Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Ali for a rhinoplasty evaluation and consultation. He will explain your surgical options for correcting imperfections in your nasal contours – and ensure that you achieve the best possible rhinoplasty results!

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with a Birmingham Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

Medical Benefits of Rhinoplasty

February 8, 2018/in Nose Job, Rhinoplasty /by admin

Rhinoplasty Offers Cosmetic and Medical Benefits

When most people think of a “nose job” they assume it is strictly a cosmetic procedure. But rhinoplasty is much more than just a remedy for living with a nose that leaves you unhappy when looking in the mirror. When performed by a skilled Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, rhinoplasty can also have a very real and positive medical impact on your life.

Rhinoplasty: More than Just Cosmetic Surgery

“The most obvious impact of a nose job is that it can improve your appearance,” says Birmingham, Michigan plastic surgeon Dr. Ali. “An improved appearance can then lead to improved self-esteem, which can improve your quality of life. If you’ve been self-conscious of your appearance your entire life because of your nose, after surgery is finished, you may find a renewed sense of self and happiness. Because you feel better about yourself, you’ll feel more confident and feel a desire to improve other areas of your life.”

But a rhinoplasty can also help you live a better and healthier life. A nose job not only improves the look of the nose, it improves its function, too. So if you have breathing problems or even sleeping problems, a rhinoplasty may be the answer for you.

Rhinoplasty for Breathing Problems

People often assume when someone says they have a deviated septum, it’s just a “cover up” for a nose job surgery. But deviated septums are a very real medical condition that can lead to difficulty breathing, seriously impacting a person’s quality of life. In a patient with a deviated septum, the center piece of cartilage is deviated, or off center. It can occur due to an injury, but is most often genetic. Because the cartilage is off center, it can impede airflow between your nostrils and passageways.

Other patients may have narrowed nasal airways that lead to decreased oxygenation – this is not only uncomfortable but can lead to lethargy, lack of stamina and increased risk of infection. Breathing issues due to narrowed or obstructed airways may also lead to decreased sense of smell, frequent nosebleeds, sleeping problems, hypertension and even heart disease.

For many breathing problems, rhinoplasty surgery is the ideal medical solution – improving your health and your quality of life.

Rhinoplasty for Sleep Issues & Snoring

If you experience sleep issues, your nose and nasal passages (airways) are likely playing a big role in the problem. Loud snoring might be annoying to your partner, but it may also indicate a much more serious health issue for you. Loud snoring may indicate that you have an obstructed airway, which can be dangerous and shouldn’t be ignored. It may indicate a more serious condition, known as “obstructive sleep apnea” or OSA.

OSA is caused by poor nasal airways, and is characterized by stoppages in breathing in the middle of the night that can jolt you awake. Not only does it result in a restless night’s sleep for you, it is also dangerous. While some cases of sleep apnea are caused by throat muscles that relax too much, others cases are caused by a severely deviated septum. In these cases, rhinoplasty performed by a Board Certified surgeon can improve both your breathing, your sleep, your snoring and your overall health.

Rhinoplasty for Sinus Headaches

Rhinoplasty can also offer relief for some sufferers of sinus headaches. If sinuses don’t drain properly, you may think you are just constantly fighting colds, or blame it on allergies. But in reality, if your nasal passageways are not able to properly drain the mucus from your sinuses it can lead to pressure, sinus infections and severe headaches.

A skilled board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali can correct a deviated septum and clear your airways and nasal passageways – providing lifelong relief from sinus pressure and headaches.

Best Birmingham Rhinoplasty Surgeon

“Many people may think a nose job is only performed to make someone look better,” says Dr. Ali. “And truthfully, if that is your reason for surgery, that is more than enough, because when you feel better about the way you look, you’ll also feel better about life. But, for many people, a rhinoplasty can offer relief from serious issues that affect them. The ability to breath and sleep better, and say goodbye to sinus pressure are amazing benefits that can greatly improve your life.”

Schedule a Consultation with a Birmingham, Michigan Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

What You Need to Know About Nose Jobs and Rhinoplasty

February 2, 2018/0 Comments/in Nose Job, Rhinoplasty /by admin

All About Nose Jobs & Rhinoplasty –

Rhinoplasty – also called nose reshaping surgery or a “nose job” – is the third-most popular plastic surgery in the United States. And while early nose job techniques and technologies were far from perfect – today’s modern nose reshaping procedures result in beautiful, natural looking noses.

The nose is the focal point of our face – giving us character and symmetry – and is a distinguishing characteristic. However, for those dissatisfied with their noses, there are several plastic surgery options available.

What Can a Nose Job “Fix”

For people who are dissatisfied with their current nasal shape, here are some basic structures of the nose that are most often modified:

The bridge of the nose: This part of the nose, where glasses sit, can be altered or reshaped to remove any bumps or abnormalities.
The tip of the nose : The angle and shape of the tip can both be modified to best suit the patient’s goals.
The nasal ala and vestibule: The overall size of the nostrils (nares) can be altered by adding or subtracting from the ala and vestibule externally and internally.
The overall nose size or shape: Many people are more concerned with the size or shape of their nose than the particulars listed above, and just want an overall change.

Regardless of the type of surgical rhinoplasty you’re considering, it is critical to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon beforehand to outline your precise goals.

Bringing in photos of the type of nose you’d like is helpful, as is a detailed description. After deciding on the ideal outcome, each patient should talk to his or her surgeon to decide which type of rhinoplasty is better: open or closed.

Open Rhinoplasty

This technique involves an incision on the external space between the nostrils, an area also referred to as the columella. This incision can let the doctor see the overall internal nasal structure. The patient’s own tissue will be used in this procedure for skin grafting. The surgeon will place sutures carefully after reconstructing the nose, allowing for optimal results. Afterwards, the nose will appear a more balanced facial feature and can grow naturally, using the patient’s tissue as a scaffold.

The major benefit of open rhinoplasty is that it requires a small incision that allows the surgeon to see the entire nasal structure during this procedure, enabling the surgeon to creates an outcome that will likely be closely aligned to the patient’s goals.

Closed Rhinoplasty

This form of rhinoplasty is performed through incisions inside the nose. While it is more difficult for the surgeon to see the internal nasal structures, this technique may leave behind no external scars. It all depends on what type of nose the patient has, as well as the goals she has in mind. Excellent results can be achieved by experienced board certified plastic surgeons like Dr. Ali, who have performed hundreds of rhinoplasties.

Detroit Area’s Best Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Whatever your appearance goals are, Dr. Ali will offer you a consultation so you can can understand what the best surgical options are for you so that you can achieve the nose you’ve always dreamed of.

Dr. M. Azhar Ali is a board-certified, Detroit area plastic surgeon who has performed more than 7,000 plastic surgery procedures. He and his team are experienced and knowledgeable aesthetic care professionals, skilled in providing treatments like rhinoplasty. The skilled team at Dr. Ali’s Plastic Surgery Center offers state-of-the-art technologies and surgical techniques – coupled with comfortable & compassionate care – to all of their valued patients.

Schedule a Nose Job Consultation with a Detroit Area Rhinoplasty Surgeon: 248-335-7200

Tummy Tuck Statistics

January 31, 2018/in Tummy Tuck /by admin

Tummy Tuck Statistics –

Board Certified Birmingham plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of men and women get the flat “abs” they’ve always wanted with Tummy Tuck surgery (abdominoplasty). While this is a common and fairy routine surgery, some people still have concerns about undergoing a surgical procedure.

In this article we share with you the most recent statistics on Tummy Tucks (abdominoplasty) – so that the numbers can speak for themselves.

When you look at the Tummy Tuck statistics, you will see that is a very common procedure – and one that is extremely safe when performed by a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon such as Dr. Ali.

Tummy Tucks are On the Rise

New Jersey plastic surgery consultants, Associates in Plastic Surgery, reports that the number of tummy tucks performed from the years 2000 to 2015, increased 104%.

According to a 2014 study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), tummy tucks are one of the most common cosmetic surgical procedure performed in the United States, with more than 117,000 procedures performed that year alone.

The ASPS went on to state that 97% of all tummy tuck patients were female, with 65% of patients undergoing the surgery in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure.

Tummy Tucks after Pregnancy or Gastric Bypass

It is estimated that almost half (44 percent) of tummy tucks are done in women in their 20s and 30s. The most common reason for tummy tuck surgery in this age group is to treat diastasis recti a common post-pregnancy problem in which the abdominal muscles, separate – resulting in a sagging belly.

But women aren’t the only one’s getting flat abs with abdominoplasty. According to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of cosmetic surgeries performed on men has increased more than 325% since 1997.

In fact tummy tucks were second only to liposuction for both men and women in the most commonly performed cosmetic surgery!

The second most common reason for undergoing a tummy tuck is skin tightening after a gastric bypass or other successful major weight loss. Almost all patients who undergo bariatric surgery end up with sagging skin at the end of their weight loss journey. In some cases, insurance will even cover all or part of loose skin removal after bariatric surgery – if it can be shown that it is for “symptom relief” rather than strictly cosmetic.

Birmingham Michigan’s Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon

Birmingham board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has safely and successfully helped hundreds of women and men obtain the firm flat abdomen they have always desired with Tummy Tuck surgery.

When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali, he will carefully answer all of your questions – and explain what to expect before, during and after a Tummy Tuck in your unique situation.

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation: 248-335-7200

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting

January 31, 2018/in Tummy Tuck /by admin

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting –

Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed CoolSculpting, Liposuction and tummy tucks on hundreds of men and women. In this article he discusses the differences between a Tummy Tuck and CoolSculpting – and explains the advantages and disadvantages of both.

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting: Anesthetic

CoolSculpting is a noninvasive procedure, performed without anesthetic – while a Tummy Tuck is a more serious surgical procedure typically performed under general (unconscious) anesthetic.

Because CoolSculpting does not require anesthetic, risks associated with anesthetization are avoided completely. And when performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, the risks from anesthetic during a tummy tuck are next to nonexistent.

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting: Procedure

Abdominoplasty (commonly referred to as a tummy tuck) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess abdominal skin and tightens the abdominal muscles. Tummy tucks result in minimal scarring and recovery time. CoolSculpting, on the other hand, results in neither

CoolSculpting is a noninvasive procedure that freezes and removes excess fat deposits. In a CoolSculpting procedure, there is no removal of skin. As such, once the fat is removed, the skin must tighten on its own. And unlike abdominoplasty, the CoolSculpting procedure does not tighten the abdominal muscles.

Tummy Tuck vs. CoolSculpting: Scarring

Typically, a full tummy tuck requires an incision across the lower abdomen. This allows the plastic surgeon to tighten the muscles and remove excess skin. As with any incision, this results in minor scarring.

Because CoolSculpting is nonsurgical, there is no scarring at all.

Endoscopic tummy tucks, (“mini tummy tucks”), result in significantly less scarring than a full tummy tuck – but, as they are still surgical procedures, result in more scarring than the scar-free CoolSculpting.

CoolSculpting vs. Tummy Tuck: Which is Better?

CoolSculpting is perfect for individuals who are at or near their desired weight, but who strugglewith specific stubborn areas of fat they cannot remove through traditional means. CoolSculpting works best for people who have both toned abdominal muscles and good skin elasticity.

Additionally, CoolSculpting is not limited simply to the abdomen, but can be performed on plenty other parts of the body. These include the buttocks, arms, chin, thighs, and flanks (or “love handles.”)

A tummy tuck, on the other hand, is ideal for individuals who have lost elasticity in the skin of their midsection, or those who suffer from weakened abdominal muscles.

There are a variety of different tummy tuck procedures – including a full tummy tuck, a partial tummy tuck (dermolipectomy) an endoscopic tummy tuck, and even a “mini-tummy tuck”. Which procedure will be best for you will depend upon whether you have just loose or excess skin, just poor abdominal muscle tone, or both.

There are numerous types of tummy tuck procedures available. Whether you need a full tummy tuck, a partial tummy tuck (dermolipectomy), an edoscopic tummy tuck, or even a “mini-tummy tuck” will depend on whether you simply have loose or excess skin, weakened abdominal muscle tone, or a combination of the two.

Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon Birmingham, Michigan

When performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, Liposuction, CoolSculpting and tummy tucks are excellent procedures for getting the body you want. Dr. Ali will carefully assess your skin, muscles and overall body to help you determine which procedure is the best for your body and appearance goals.

Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men across Oakland County get the body they want with lipo, CoolSculpting and tummy tucks. He will be happy to offer you a consultation to help you understand your options and decide if liposuction, CoolSculpting or a tummy tuck is right for you.

And remember, financing options are also available!

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation: 248-335-7200

Celebrities Who Have Had Tummy Tucks

January 30, 2018/in Tummy Tuck /by admin

Celebrities Who Have Had Tummy Tucks

We all envy those flat toned abs that nearly every celebrity seems to have these days. But many people don’t realize that most a list celebs have undergone cosmetic or surgical procedures to get those great bodies.

Oakland County board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali offers the very same body sculpting procedures that the celebrities get right here in his Birmingham, Michigan medical facility and spa. He has helped hundreds of women and men across Oakland County obtain the firm flat abdomen they have always desired with Tummy Tuck surgery.

Celebrity Tummy Tucks after Pregnancy

The two abdominal muscles that run down the stomach separate during one out of every three pregnancies. The resulting bulge cannot be reversed with any amount of exercise. As traditional methods are not enough to yield such a radical post-pregnancy body transformation, cosmetic surgery exists as an alternative perfect for many women, particularly celebrities.

One such famous example is Kate + 8’s Kate Gosselin. Having given birth to eight children, Kate was an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck procedure. As documented in an episode of TLC’s Sextuplets and Twins: One Year Later, the surgery was able to repair the stretching that resulted from carrying 6 children at once.

Additionally, actress Patricia Heaton, who gave birth to her four children via four separate cesarean sections, opted to remove the scarring with a tummy tuck.

Kim Zolciak of Real Housewives of Atlanta gave birth to four babies over the course of three years, and underwent a tummy tuck to repair her abdominal muscles and reposition her belly button.

Celebrity Tummy Tuck after Gastric Bypass

Weight loss icon Star Jones underwent a tummy tuck following her landmark loss of 100 pounds in 2003, tightening the excess skin left over from the dramatic transformation.

Additionally, Carnie Wilson, who also lost over 100 pounds as a result of gastric bypass surgery, opted to have a tummy tuck, tightening her skin and leaving her looking better than ever.

Other Celebrities Who Probably had Tummy Tucks

Many more celebrities haven’t openly admitted or denied having a Tummy Tuck -but after viewing before-and-after pics, most plastic surgeons are in agreement that the only way these celebs could have achieved their amazing “bikini bodies” is through abdominoplasty (tummy tuck).

Britney Spears is widely rumored to have had several plastic surgery procedures including a breast augmentation, liposuction, and a tummy tuck to get the “killer bod” she is famous for.

Nicki Minaj’s dramatically slimmed appearance, along with the fact that she appears to have a scar on her stomach, is indicative of having had a tummy tuck.

Most plastic surgeons also suspect that Angelina Jolie’s abs bounced back so quickly after delivering twins because of a tummy tuck procedure.

Birmingham’s Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon

Oakland County board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali offers the very same body sculpting procedures that the celebrities get – but right here in his Birmingham, Michigan medical facility and spa.

He has helped hundreds of women and men obtain the firm flat abdomen they have always desired with Tummy Tuck surgery, CoolSculpting and Liposuction. Call Dr. Ali for a consultation today – and get the celebrity body you’ve always wanted.

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation: 248-335-7200

Tummy Tucks After Pregnancy

January 19, 2018/in Tummy Tuck /by admin

Tummy Tuck and Pregnancy –

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women in Oakland County “get their body back” after pregnancy. In this article he discusses the pros and cons of a tummy tuck after pregnancy – and what a woman can expect when she undergoes this procedure.

Perhaps no experience in life is more wonderful and rewarding than having a child. But the nine months of carrying a child can take its toll on a woman’s abdominal area. And the negative effects on a woman’s belly area can be even more pronounced after multiple pregnancies. For many women, a tummy tuck is the answer to restoring a flat and youthful appearance to their stomach.

Am I a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck After Pregnancy?

If stubborn pockets of fat are the only problem after pregnancy, a less invasive procedure such as CoolSculpting or Liposuction may be all that is needed. These procedures are less expensive, have fewer risks, and a much shorter recovery time.

However, if your abdominal skin is loose or lax – and/or if your muscle tone has been compromised – then you may need a tummy tuck. When you have a droopy, saggy or baggy stomach area – no amount or diet or exercise is going to tighten your skin and muscles and get rid of the so-called “pouch,” “paunch,” or “pooch.” And simply removing the fat underneath is not enough, either.

Tightening Stomach Area Muscles after Pregnancy

Diastasis recti is a condition in which the right and left halves of the abdominal muscles spread apart. This condition is commonly caused by pregnancy, when the tissue that connects the two halves of the “ab” muscles stretches as your baby grows and your uterus expands. And, pregnancy hormones can also add to the thinning of this tissue.

A small amount of muscle stretching is normal in any pregnancy. But a muscle separation of more than about 2 centimeters –which occurs in about 30% of pregnancies – is when this becomes a problem. This results in the appearance of a drooping pot belly.

Genetics can be big factor in developing the condition. Women who have carried more than one child at a time, petite women, and women with poor abdominal muscle tone have the highest risk of Diastasis recti.

C-Sections and Tummy Tucks

After a C-section, women are often left with a “C-section shelf” comprised of puffy, unevenly-healed scar tissue. Others are left with a caterpillar-like red, ridged scar, while still others end up with a low-hanging belly “shelf”. A skilled plastic surgeon can remove this distressing are of the belly – and sculpt it into a flatter and tighter abdomen.

Typically, a tummy tuck incision is made in the lower abdomen, which can completely remove a C-section scar. And in most cases, any stretch marks are also eliminated!

When to Schedule your Tummy Tuck after Pregnancy

The best time to schedule your tummy tuck is when you are finished having any more children – and at least six months after the last time you give birth. It takes the body at least six months to heal the deep tissues in your abdomen have been stretched and ripped as a result of carrying a child. And after six months, most of the stretching will have healed, and the pregnancy hormones that soften the tissue should no longer be in your system. Once this has happened, the ripped tissue will hold together better and heal more efficiently after the procedure.

Additionally, waiting until six months after childbirth is recommended because new mothers have to lift their babies constantly – which can put excess stress on a healing tummy tuck.

Also, if you are breast feeding, you should wait until at least six months after you stop. A woman transfers whatever is in the breastmilk to the nursing child – and breastfeeding influences your hormone production, as well.

Getting Pregnant after a Tummy Tuck

You can safely get pregnant and carry a child to term after a tummy tuck. However, pregnancy subsequent to a tummy tuck can “undo” to a certain extent the benefits of your tummy tuck. So, if you are planning to get pregnant again, most reputable plastic surgeons will suggest delaying your tummy tuck.

Oakland County’s Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon

Oakland County board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women “get their body back” post-pregnancy with a Tummy Tuck. In fact, many women get abs that even look better than they did before their pregnancies! When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali, he will answer all of your questions – and help you decide if a Tummy Tuck is the right procedure for you.

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation: 248-335-7200

What Happens During Tummy Tuck Surgery?

January 18, 2018/in Tummy Tuck /by admin

The Tummy Tuck Process –

Board Certified Birmingham plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of men and women get the abdomen they desire with a “Tummy Tuck” or abdominoplasty. In this article he walks you through the Tummy Tuck process from start to finish, so you know what to expect.

How a Tummy Tuck is Done:

Every patient has uniquely different needs when it comes to a tummy tuck. In your initial consultation, your plastic surgeon should take a great deal of time to examine your abdominal area, listen to your goals and answer your questions.

A variety of techniques can be used, and will depend upon whether you have a lot or little loose, excess skin, loose abdomen muscles, or both. Together you will decide which type of tummy tuck is best for your needs (see different types of tummy tucks HERE).

Tummy Tuck Preparation

Before your tummy tuck procedure, pictures will be taken, and surgical markings will be made on your abdomen with a special marker. Then you will typically be taken to the operating or surgery room in a medical gurney.

Tummy Tuck Anesthesia

Tummy tucks are almost always performed under general anesthesia (sometimes called being “knocked out”). However, in some cases intravenous sedation may be used.

In cases of a tummy tuck involving suturing the muscles together to tighten them, the rectus abdominus muscle needs to be completely paralyzed – and so the patient must undergo general anesthesia.

Once you are fully asleep, your skin will be sterilized with a solution.

Tummy Tuck Incision

A full tummy tuck requires a long horizontal (lengthwise) incision in the area between the pubic hairline and belly button. It is typically made in the “bikini area” to minimize the visibility of any scars.

The shape and the length of the patient’s incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin that needs to be removed. In some case a second incision around the navel may be necessary, to also remove the excess skin from the upper abdomen.

Tummy Tuck Tightening

After the incision is made, if muscle tightening is needed, the skin is lifted to reveal the abdominal muscles. Dr. Ali will carefully “stitch” (suture) the muscles together to make them taut.

If there is excess or loose skin, it is trimmed off. Then the skin is pulled down to be tightened, like a window shade, and the skin is sutured together.

If necessary, a new opening for the navel may need to be created. The belly button is then “popped through” the hole to the surface, and held in place with stiches.

Tummy Tuck Closing the Incision(s)

Finally, the plastic surgeon will use sutures (“stitches”), and possibly skin adhesives, tapes or clips, to close the skin incisions.

On average, the tummy tuck should take between three to five hours to complete. The length of time will depend on which procedure you require, as well as how much skin must be removed, as well as how much muscle tightening is needed.

If other procedures are being performed at the same time, such as repairing an abdominal wall hernias, liposuction or breast procedures, the surgical process will take longer to complete.

After you are fully awake, you will be monitored for another hour or to. You will need someone to drive you home, and help care for you for at least the first few days. You will also be given specific aftercare instructions by your plastic surgeon which you must follow carefully, in order to heal properly, as well as prevent infection. The healing time and recovery process will depend upon which type of Tummy Tuck was performed.

Oakland County’s Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon

Birmingham board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men obtain the firm flat abdomen they have always desired with a Tummy Tuck. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali, he will answer all of your questions – and explain what to expect before, during and after a Tummy Tuck in your unique situation.

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation: 248-335-7200

What’s the Difference Between a Tummy Tuck & Liposuction?

January 18, 2018/in Tummy Tuck /by admin

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction –

Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed liposuction and tummy tucks on hundreds of men and women. In this article he discusses the differences between these two procedures – and the advantages and disadvantages of both.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Anesthetic

Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure, performed under local (numbing) anesthetic – while a Tummy Tuck is a more serious surgical procedure typically performed under general (unconscious) anesthetic.

Because a patient is awake during liposuction, there is not the risks associated with general anesthetic, as there are with a tummy tuck. However, when performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, the risks from anesthetic during a tummy tuck are extremely rare.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Procedure

A tummy tuck (also called abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that in order to remove excess abdominal skin and tighten the abdominal muscles. This does result in some scaring, and a longer recovery time and more intense discomfort and soreness than liposuction.

Liposuction is a minimally invasive technique that only removes excess fat deposits located between the skin and muscle. In a liposuction procedure, excess skin is not removed – and the skin must tighten up on its own over the area of removed fat. Additionally, the liposuction procedure does not tighten the abdominal muscles.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Scarring

A full tummy tuck typically requires a larger incision across the lower abdomen (bikini line), in order to enable the plastic surgeon to remove excess abdominal skin, and suture the muscles to tighten them.

Liposuction, however, only results in extremely tiny scars less than 3 mm long – which are barely noticeable and typically face away over time.

An endoscopic tummy tuck, or a mini tummy tuck, result in less scarring than a full tummy tuck – but are still surgical procedures that leave more scarring than liposuction.

See the different types of abdominal scars from a tummy tuck HERE.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Which is Better for Me?

Liposuction is an excellent procedure for people who are at or near a healthy weight, with specific stubborn areas of fat that they wish to remove. Liposuction works best for people who have both good skin elasticity and muscle tone in the abdominal area.

Additionally, Lipo be performed on many other parts of the body including the love handles (flanks), arms, chin, thighs and buttocks.

A tummy tuck, however, is the best procedure for individuals with loose or excess skin in their midsection, or those who loose and weakened abdominal muscles.

Troy Area’s Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon

When performed by a board certified plastic surgeon, both liposuction and tummy tuck are excellent procedures for getting the “Abs” you want. Dr. Ali will carefully assess your skin, muscles and overall body to help you determine the best procedure for your body.

Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men across Oakland County get the body they want with liposuction and tummy tucks. He will be happy to offer you a consultation to help you understand your options and decide if liposuction or a tummy tuck is right for you.

And remember, financing options are also available!

Call Dr. Ali for a Tummy Tuck Consultation: 248-335-7200

What are the risks of a Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty)?

January 18, 2018/in Tummy Tuck /by admin

Are There Possible Complications of Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty)?

A tummy tuck – or abdominoplasty – is a common and routine procedure. However, unlike non-surgical CoolSculpting, or mildly-invasive liposuction, a tummy tuck is a full surgical procedure, and therefore it carries the same risks as any surgery. However, when performed by a Board Certified Plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali who has done hundreds of tummy tucks, any risks are greatly minimized.

In this article we discuss the risks of which you should be aware. But you should not be “worried” – as complications are extremely rare.

Anesthesia Risks with Tummy Tuck

The main risk with a tummy tuck is from the anesthesia, there are risks that primarily due to the anesthetic. While the risks of anesthetic are very rare, you should still know about them. But you do not need to worry too much about them, in the hands of a skilled board certified physician.

Most cases of anesthesia-related problems are linked to the respiratory (breathing) system. Improperly administered anesthetic, or an allergic reaction, can cause difficulty breathing. In addition to causing the airways of the lungs to tighten up, allergic reactions to anesthetics, can cause a heart attack –or shut down.

Pre-existing heart conditions or liver or kidneys problems can also affect how your body will react to anesthetics, so be sure to tell your doctor about any pre-existing conditions. Smokers are also more likely to have lungs and bronchial tubes that are irritable and susceptible to spasm – which can increase the risk of complications from anesthesia.

Some antidepressants in the drug category monoamine oxidase inhibitors (also known as MAOI can intensify the effects of anesthesia. Always tell your doctor if you take an MAO inhibitor, or have taken one in the last few months, so they can make adjustments to your anesthetic.

Necrosis Risks with Tummy Tuck

Because a patients skin, fat, and other tissue are being loosened and rearranged, there is a very slim risk that something may inadvertently detached from the blood supply – which causes tissue death called necrosis. It is actually normal for small amounts of fat to become necrotic during a tummy tuck – in which case it becomes a clear orange-ish liquid that drains from the incision.

But if too much fat, or other tissue, becomes necrotic, infection can develop. Left untreated the necrosis can possibly become gangrene. Like all complications, this is extremely rare! But taking precautions against it helps considerably, such as: not smoking, proper wound after-care, and alerting your doctor immediately to any excess or unusual pain, drainage or sign of infection.

Thromboembolus Risks with Tummy Tuck

Another extremely rare risk of abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a thromboembolus – or blood clot – that can cause a blockage in the circulatory system.

In the rare event of a blood clot, it will most likely happen within 72 hours after surgery. However, in even rarer cases, a thromboembolus can occur up to 3 weeks after surgery. The symptoms of pulmonary (lung) thromboembolus are typically shortness of breath and fatigue.

While thromboemboli are very, very rare after a tummy tuck, getting up and walking around as often as possible after your surgery will substantially reduce the risk of a blood clot!

Avoid Tummy Tuck Complications with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

The vast majority of tummy tuck patients will NOT experience any of these serious complications. For most patients the only “side effects” will be some fluid accumulation beneath the skin (seroma) that can be removed with drainage tubes that are left in place after surgery for a short while.

And, as with any surgery, there will be some swelling, bruising and manageable pain during the healing process.

But in the skilled and experienced hands of Board Certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali, you should not be overly concerned about highly unlikely complications.

Birmingham’s Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon

Birmingham board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men in Southwest Michigan obtain a firm flat abdomen with a Tummy Tuck, without complications. When you schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali, he will answer all of your questions – and help you decide if a Tummy Tuck is the right procedure for your unique body, lifestyle and appearance goals.