Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

The surgery is designed to address a protruding or sagging abdomen that does not respond to traditional diet and exercise. By removing redundant skin and stubborn fat deposits, the experts at EmilMD can create a much smoother and flatter stomach profile. This procedure is particularly effective for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy, which often leaves the skin stretched beyond its natural point of elasticity. Dr. Emil Kohan focuses on achieving a toned appearance that complements the patient's overall body proportions.

Pregnancy or massive weight fluctuations can cause the vertical muscles of the abdomen to pull apart, a condition known clinically as diastasis recti. During the surgical process at EmilMD, these weakened or separated muscles are pulled together and sutured into a tighter, more permanent position. This internal repair acts like an internal corset, narrowing the waistline and providing a firmer foundation for the overlying skin. Many patients find that this correction significantly improves their core strength and posture in addition to the visual benefits. Dr. Emil Kohan prioritizes this structural reinforcement to ensure a long-lasting and athletic result.

Most patients should plan for a recovery period of approximately two to three weeks before they feel comfortable returning to a desk job or light daily activities. During the first several days, it is normal to walk with a slight bend to avoid placing tension on the new incision line. EmilMD's clinical team provides comprehensive guidance on managing surgical drains and wearing compression garments to minimize swelling during the initial healing phase. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting must be avoided for at least six weeks to allow the internal muscle repairs to stabilize fully. Dr. Emil Kohan monitors the progress of each patient through regular follow-up appointments to ensure a safe transition.

The removal of excess skin and the surgical tightening of the abdominal wall create a permanent change to the body's structure. While the aging process will continue, the midsection should remain significantly firmer than it would have without the intervention. Patients at EmilMD are encouraged to maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle to preserve the integrity of their surgical outcome for many years. Significant weight gain or future pregnancies can potentially restretch the tissues and diminish the aesthetic improvements achieved during the operation. Dr. Emil Kohan utilizes advanced techniques to provide a durable and sustainable contour for the patient.

Placement of the surgical entry points is carefully planned to ensure they remain hidden beneath standard swimwear and undergarments. A horizontal incision is usually made just above the pubic area, extending toward the hip bones depending on the amount of skin being removed. At EmilMD, every effort is made to keep the scar as low as possible so that it is not visible in daily life or at the beach. A second small incision is often required around the navel to reposition it naturally once the skin has been tightened. Dr. Emil Kohan employs meticulous suturing methods to encourage the scars to heal as thin and flat as possible.

It is very common to integrate fat removal techniques into the surgical plan to further refine the contours of the waist and flanks. This combination, often referred to as a lipo-abdominoplasty, allows the experts at EmilMD to sculpt the surrounding areas while simultaneously tightening the central abdomen. By addressing both skin laxity and localized fat pockets, the surgeon can achieve a more comprehensive and three-dimensional transformation. This approach ensures that the transition between the stomach and the hips appears seamless and natural. Dr. Emil Kohan evaluates the distribution of body fat to determine if this dual approach is necessary for the patient.

Patients with a smaller amount of excess skin located strictly below the navel may be candidates for a mini-abdominoplasty, which requires a shorter incision and less recovery time. Conversely, those with significant skin laxity extending around the sides may benefit from an extended or circumferential approach. The clinical team at EmilMD discusses these variations during the initial consultation to match the technique to the patient's specific anatomy. Understanding the degree of correction required allows for a more targeted surgical experience with optimized results. Dr. Emil Kohan customizes the procedure to ensure the most effective balance between surgical correction and scar length.

Due to the extensive nature of the muscle repair and skin excision, this surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a fully accredited facility. This ensures that the patient remains completely comfortable and safe throughout the duration of the operation. The staff at EmilMD maintains a highly controlled environment, utilizing board-certified professionals to monitor vital signs and anesthetic levels. A thorough preoperative medical screening is conducted to confirm that the patient is a healthy candidate for the procedure and the associated sedation. Dr. Emil Kohan reviews the entire safety protocol with the patient prior to the scheduled surgery date.