Abdominoplasty

The iTuck® abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) operation combines three advances in surgical technology to create an outpatient procedure that achieves the contour improvements of standard abdominoplasty while minimizing pain and recovery time.

Abdominoplasty – (The iTuck ®)

The iTuck® abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) operation combines three advances in surgical technology to create an outpatient procedure that achieves the contour improvements of standard abdominoplasty while minimizing pain and recovery time.

The iTuck® involves removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal wall muscles. It also includes liposuction of the hips and flanks, extending as far as possible with the patient lying on their back, all as a standard part of the procedure without additional charge. The iTuck® incorporates three technical innovations:

No Drains:

Progressive Tension Sutures are placed internally to secure the skin to the muscle wall, eliminating the need for drain tubes. This technique maximizes skin removal and significantly reduces, if not eliminates, seroma formation (fluid collection under the skin flap). Since adopting this technique in 2010, Dr. Kirn has not encountered any seromas.

Pain Control:

In the operating room, a long-acting numbing medicine, Exparel® (www.exparel.com), is applied to the muscle wall, the perimeter of the dissection zone, and the incisions. This reduces immediate post-operative pain and decreases the need for narcotic pain medication. Exparel® lasts approximately 72 hours, allowing patients to return home or to a local hotel comfortably after surgery. By the time it wears off, natural soreness typically subsides, enabling patients to manage most of their pain without narcotics.

ENHANCED RECOVERY:

A Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) device is used outside the surgical dressings for the first-week post-surgery. These devices create a low-strength pulsed electromagnetic field that reduces post-surgical inflammation, resulting in less pain and potentially improved healing. The SofPulse® system, for example, has been scientifically shown to decrease inflammatory body chemicals (Plast. Reconstr. Surg. 2010 Jun;125(6):1630-1. & Aesth. Plast Surg. 2008).

Schedule Your Abdominoplasty Procedure

Nearly all iTuck® procedures are performed at the Surgery Center as outpatient surgeries. A comfortable patient will recover better at home, and avoiding the hospital reduces the risk of exposure to hospital-associated bacteria.

Most patients can expect soreness for the first few days post-operation and should remain in a flexed position to reduce tension on the incision for the initial two to three days. Patients with low-activity jobs can usually return to work within a week. Heavy lifting (>20 lbs.) should be avoided for six weeks after surgery.

In summary, the iTuck®, offered by both Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati, enhances the patient experience by combining multiple established technologies to maximize results and ease recovery.

Before & After Gallery

Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati are Plastic Surgeons devoted to advanced techniques in Cosmetic Surgery of the Face, Breast, and Body.

abdominoplasty before and after photo

Abdominoplasty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the iTuck® operation and a standard tummy tuck?

The iTuck® operation is designed to achieve the same results as a standard tummy tuck while minimizing pain and recovery time. This outpatient procedure incorporates three key elements in addition to the standard tummy tuck technique:

  • Exparel®: A long-acting numbing medication is placed into the muscle layer to significantly reduce post-operative pain.
  • Progressive Tension Sutures: These sutures are used to secure the skin to the underlying muscle, eliminating the need for drains.
  • Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Device: This device is used after surgery to decrease inflammation and pain, promoting faster recovery.

These enhancements help ensure a more comfortable and efficient recovery process while delivering excellent contouring results.

How long will I need to be off work after an iTuck®?

The amount of time you need off work after an iTuck® depends on the physical demands of your job. For most patients with office jobs or those that do not involve heavy lifting, 7-10 days off work is usually sufficient. It is important to avoid lifting anything heavy (over 20 lbs.) for 6 weeks after surgery to ensure proper healing.

When can I exercise after an iTuck®?

Assuming normal healing, you can usually resume exercise that does not involve heavy lifting (over 20 lbs) two weeks after surgery. It is important to follow your surgeon's specific recommendations for you to ensure a safe and effective recovery.

When can I drive after an iTuck®?

You can drive once you are off pain medication and not too sore to move quickly if necessary. It is crucial to ensure you can drive safely before getting behind the wheel. These criteria are usually met 5-7 days after surgery.

When can I lift my children after an iTuck®?

It depends on their weight: if they are less than 20 lbs., you will be able to pick them up 5-7 days after surgery. If they weigh more than 20 lbs., plan on not lifting them for 6 weeks after surgery.

Will I have drains with an iTuck®?

No - drains are not necessary with the iTuck® procedure.

What is the size of the scar with an iTuck®?

There will be a scar around the belly button and another horizontal scar located low on the abdomen, usually extending hip bone to hip bone. Every effort is made to locate the horizontal scar low enough so it is hidden by swimsuits and undergarments, but this can depend on how much extra skin you have.

What weight should I be for an iTuck®?

It is best to be at a stable weight which you can maintain after surgery for an iTuck® procedure. It is best not to gain or lose significant amounts of weight after the procedure. Patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) greater than 35 are not good candidates for the iTuck® procedure, and would be best served with weight loss preoperatively.

Will I lose weight with an iTuck®?

The iTuck® is not a weight loss operation even though skin and fat are removed during the procedure. Generally, this is not enough to yield a significant weight change. However, many patients do lose weight after the surgery due to changes in eating habits and exercise. The visible changes in body shape, removal of excess skin, and a firmer, tighter abdomen resulting from the iTuck® frequently motivate many patients to lose additional weight through diet and exercise after surgery.

Will my hip contour be improved with the iTuck®?

Liposuction of the hip and flank area is a standard component of the iTuck® and is included, at no extra charge, with the operation.

Should I have a mini tummy tuck or a standard one?

This choice is best determined during the consultation. The capabilities of the mini tummy tuck operation are less than the standard procedure or iTuck®, but in the right patient a shorter scar and quicker recovery can be achieved. Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati always use the least invasive operation which will achieve the surgical goals.

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Dr. Kirn and Dr. Al Bayati photo

Meet Dr. David Kirn

Dr. David Kirn is an American Board of Plastic Surgery Certified Plastic Surgeon who is devoted to advanced techniques in Cosmetic Surgery of the Face, Breast, and Body. In private practice since 1998, he is located in a state-of-the-art facility which includes a full service skin care center. The practice is focused on personalized patient care and attention to detail. Where possible, Dr. Kirn utilizes minimally invasive procedures.

Meet Dr. Ahmed Al Bayati

Having completed his training in plastic surgery and serving as Chief Resident at the University of Kentucky, Dr. Al Bayati brings a wealth of expertise and dedication to his practice. His commitment to advancing patient care and achieving exceptional outcomes reflects his unwavering passion for plastic surgery.

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