tummy tuck
in Houston and Pearland, TX

Cosmetic surgery is helpful to both men and women, especially when it comes to excess tummy fat or saggy and loose abdominal skin. A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can rejuvenate your appearance and help restore your confidence to an all-time high. If you live in Houston, Pearland, Lake Jackson, or the surrounding areas of South Houston, Dr. Christopher Hankins and his professional staff can help you achieve a flatter, smoother, more toned stomach at Premier Plastic Surgery in Pearland.

Table of content

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Dr. Christopher Hankins provides patients with tummy tucks in Houston as a body-contouring procedure. Excess stomach fat, sagging skin, or unsightly stretch marks plague many men and women due to weight gain, weight loss, or pregnancy. It is possible to obtain the body shape you desire and stop using clothing to cover up and hide your body. A tummy tuck may be the solution. During a traditional tummy tuck, flaps of excess skin and fat are removed, and the abdominal wall muscles are tightened to strengthen and tone the stomach.

Other Tummy Tuck Procedures

For patient flexibility, other types of tummy tuck procedures can be chosen. Here are the possible options:

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck procedure differs from a full abdominoplasty in that the level of dissection is limited to the area below the belly button. Correction of diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles) below the belly button is possible, but it is not done above that point due to the limited dissection. It is possible to make the incision somewhat shorter than it would have been for a full tummy tuck, but this is not a hard and fast rule.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty with flankplasty, is similar to a traditional tummy tuck. However, in addition to treating the belly area, the procedure removes skin and fatty tissue from the sides and back, giving you an all-around flatter, tighter midsection and more streamlined waist.

Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck

A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is an advanced variation of the traditional abdominoplasty that addresses horizontal and vertical excess skin and tissue. This technique benefits patients who have lost significant weight, resulting in a large amount of loose skin in both directions. The procedure involves two incisions: a horizontal cut across the lower abdomen, similar to a standard tummy tuck, and a vertical incision running from the chest down to the pubic area. This approach helps remove excess skin in both the upper and lower abdomen, providing a more sculpted and contoured midsection. The fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is ideal for those who want to achieve a more dramatic transformation.

Reverse Tummy Tuck

A reverse tummy tuck is a variation of the traditional procedure designed for patients with excess skin and fat in the upper abdomen. Unlike the standard abdominoplasty, which focuses on the lower belly, the reverse tummy tuck lifts and tightens the skin above the belly button. The incision for this procedure is typically made along the breast crease, which helps to conceal scarring. This approach is often used for patients who have good lower abdominal muscle tone but struggle with sagging or loose skin in the upper abdomen, particularly after weight loss or pregnancy. The reverse tummy tuck can provide a smoother, tighter appearance to the upper abdomen while avoiding the need for incisions around the lower part of the abdomen.

Before & After

tummy tuck results

Tummy Tuck: What’s the First Step?

If you are interested in a tummy tuck consultation, you first want to contact Premier Plastic Surgery and schedule an appointment. Dr. Hankins will examine your abdomen and skin elasticity, review your medical history, and discuss your body-shaping goals. He will then determine if you are a candidate for tummy tuck surgery and thoroughly explain the recommended procedure and surgical process. We will be happy to discuss the tummy tuck options in greater detail, answer any questions, and discuss which technique is best for you, along with the associated pros and cons.
Once Dr. Hankins deems you are a suitable candidate for the procedure, he will come up with a treatment plan, which you can then take to a patient coordinator who will help you schedule the procedure in addition to helping you with the pricing options and sharing any pre-operative instructions you might need.

What to Expect on the Day of
Tummy Tuck Surgery

Anesthesia

The procedure begins with general anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and safety. You’ll be fully asleep during the surgery, allowing Dr. Hankins to perform each step with precision while you remain pain-free.

Liposuction

Dr. Hankins often begins a tummy tuck procedure with liposuction of the lower abdomen. Fat in the targeted area is removed before the main incision is made in the skin. This leaves the lymphatics behind to help prevent fluid accumulation, a common problem in conventional abdominoplasty. This technique was initially developed by Jean-Francois Pascal of Leon, France.

Incision

Afterward, an incision is made above the pubic line, which extends to the pelvic rim on each side. Dr. Hankins uses the latest techniques to minimize scarring.

Excess Skin Removal

The next step involves undermining the excess skin and fatty tissues through the initial incision. The amount of skin that is removed is tailored to the individual patient. This technique effectively addresses cases where two fat bulges are in the abdomen, one lying higher than the other. Dr. Hankins performs an undermining surgical technique that effectively treats this deformity.

Muscle Tightening

When the two middle strap muscles in the midline of the abdomen (i.e., the rectus abdominus) are separated (diastasis recti), Dr. Hankins will repair this deformity to give you a slimmer waistline and a flatter tummy.

Hernia Removal

For patients with an umbilical hernia, the hernia is repaired, the abdominal skin and fat are then repositioned, and the excess skin is removed.

Belly Button Repositioning

Once the loose skin has been eliminated and the abdominal wall repaired, Dr. Hankins repositions the belly button to a natural-looking location. A new opening is made in the abdominal skin, and the umbilicus is carefully brought through and sutured into place, preserving its blood supply and natural appearance.

Incision Closure

The final step involves carefully closing the incision with layered sutures to promote optimal healing and minimize scarring. Dr. Hankins places surgical drains when necessary and applies dressings to support the healing tissues, ensuring a smooth recovery and aesthetically pleasing result.

Add-On Procedures

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation enhances the size and shape of the breasts using implants or fat transfer. It can restore volume lost after weight loss or pregnancy, creating a fuller, more balanced look.

Breast Lift

A breast lift repositions sagging breasts by removing excess skin and tightening surrounding tissue. This procedure restores a more youthful contour without necessarily changing breast size.

Breast Reduction

Breast reduction removes excess breast tissue and skin to achieve a more proportionate breast size. It can also relieve physical discomfort such as back, neck, or shoulder pain caused by overly large breasts.

Brazilian Butt Lift

A Brazilian butt lift enhances the shape and volume of the buttocks using fat transferred from other areas of the body. This technique creates a more sculpted figure without the use of implants.

“ I love my new body! ”

I had Tummy Tuck surgery and lipo with Dr Hankins and my results are beyond amazing! I love my new body! Jean and Dr Hankins were wonderful to work with and I have recommended him to all my family and friends! Breast lift next! Dr Hankins really cares for his patients and that really meant at lot to me! Thanks Premier Plastic Surgery

— Sherre Melancon

“Dr. Hankins is a wonderful surgeon”

Dr. Hankins is a wonderful surgeon that takes his time with you! He has never rushed me out of the room unwilling to answer questions. He is SO THOROUGH and precise. I had a tummy tuck done and am so pleased with the results! It’s even better than my “pre-babies” body! I plan to have my breasts done as well and I will look nowhere else! He is my go to 🙂

— Holly Kelley

Tummy Tuck Recovery

After tummy tuck procedures, most patients are admitted for a 23-hour post-operative observation in the hospital to manage pain and nausea. The following morning, they are sufficiently recovered to be discharged home.
Patients who underwent the procedure at a surgeon’s office and were sent home the same day are at an extreme disadvantage for the first few hours following surgery when the pain and nausea are at their worst. These individuals may be paying less than a person would pay to have the surgery done in the hospital with a 23-hour overnight admission. However, they face higher recovery risks.
We prescribe medication to help relieve pain and discomfort after surgery. Tummy tuck patients must wear a compression garment for several weeks to support the abdomen while healing. They should also take a stool softener to avoid straining the abdomen and incision. Dr. Hankins will notify you when you can return to work and do other activities. Strenuous activities where you must lift or strain your stomach muscles must be avoided for at least six weeks.
Dr. Hankins will provide specific after-surgery instructions and schedule follow-up visits. We highly recommend maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and after treatment to maximize results.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a
Tummy Tuck?

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Tummy Tuck?

Dr. Christopher Hankins advises his patients that a tummy tuck is an excellent cosmetic procedure for flattening and shaping the abdomen and tightening and smoothing the skin. However, tummy tucks are not meant as a weight loss solution alone, and patients should be close to their ideal body weight.
It’s important to note that not everyone is a candidate for tummy tuck surgery. Suppose the patient’s BMI or height-to-weight ratio is too high. In that case, Dr. Hankins will recommend the amount of weight that should be lost before the procedure or, in some cases, offer a panniculectomy that will often enable patients to lose the additional pounds.
However, BMI is not a strict criterion for eligibility for surgery. Depending on the amount of fat stored in the abdomen, both internally and externally, many patients may be viable candidates and undergo tummy tuck surgery.

You may be a candidate for a tummy tuck if you are concerned about localized fat deposits in your stomach and loose, flabby skin. Patients who undergo a tummy tuck include:

Individuals who have lost weight but are troubled by excess fat pockets, a stomach pouch, or loose skin.

Women who have weakened abdominal muscles, stretch marks, and excess skin due to pregnancy. They are good candidates for a tummy tuck or a “mommy makeover.”

Individuals with significant weight loss after surgery. They are often left with weak or separated stomach muscles, redundant skin, and unsightly stretch marks.

What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

Our patients who have received a tummy tuck in Houston have been able to see some of the following benefits that this surgery can provide:

Better core strength

Boost in self-esteem

Flatter stomach

Improved control over bodily functions

More flattering figure

Prevention of painful hernias

Relief of incontinence

Repaired diastasis recti (muscle separation)

Tummy Tuck Cost

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in Houston, TX?

The cost of a tummy tuck in Houston, TX starts at $8,800 and may increase depending on each patient’s goals and needs. This price often time includes liposuction in the upper and lower abdomen.
We recommend scheduling a consultation with our Houston tummy tuck expert, Dr. Christopher Hankins, for a personalized cost estimate and detailed information about the procedure. During your consultation, our patient coordinator will provide a customized quote and answer any questions you may have regarding a tummy tuck procedure.

Why Choose Dr. Hankins?

Dr. Christopher Hankins is an experienced professional who helps people in Pearland and the surrounding Houston area rejuvenate their appearance. He believes in offering patients treatments that are in their best interests. Dr. Hankins is committed to evaluating the whole individual, not just the cosmetic issue.
Dr. Hankins specializes in face, breast, and body aesthetic surgery. He has advanced training in hand surgery, breast reconstruction after cancer, and other reconstructive surgical procedures. Dr. Hankins completed five plastic surgery fellowships with highly distinguished physician mentors in the United States and the United Kingdom, including a Plastic and Microsurgery fellowship at the Baylor College of Medicine and a Hand Surgery fellowship at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Dr. Hankins earned his medical degree from the University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. He completed his General Surgery training prerequisite for Plastic Surgery as established by the Residency Review Committee in Plastic Surgery and Anatomic and Clinical Pathology.
In addition to his practice in plastic and aesthetic surgery, Dr. Hankins is actively involved in the study and clinical application of anti-aging medicine. He is a Diplomate of the American Association of Anti-Aging Medicine and a member of the American Board of Pathology (ABP), American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (AACS), American Association of Anti-Aging Medicine (AAAAM), and the Texas Medical Association (TMA).

Tummy Tuck FAQs

For patient flexibility, other types of tummy tuck procedures can be chosen. Here are the possible options:

Is a Tummy Tuck Painful?

The tummy tuck procedure is pain-free as it is performed under general anesthesia. After surgery, you can expect to experience some discomfort, pain, and swelling. We recommend avoiding pressure on your abdomen and using the compression garment and any pain medications as prescribed.

Should I Have Liposuction or a Tummy Tuck?

Dr. Hankins is the best person to determine whether you will benefit more from a tummy tuck or liposuction. If you have loose skin that has lost its elasticity due to pregnancy, aging, or weight loss, a tummy tuck may be more appropriate. If you are a younger patient with a low BMI, elastic skin, and a desire to enhance your figure and smooth the contour of your body, liposuction might be more suitable for you. The two procedures can also be combined to contour the abdomen following excess skin removal and re-tightening of the abdominal wall.

The choice varies very much from patient to patient, so it’s important to discuss your needs and expectations with Dr. Hankins, who will be able to explain the options in more depth. However, your body will ultimately determine what procedure is appropriate for you.

How Many Appointments Will I Need?

There are usually three to six follow-up meetings with Dr. Hankins. Depending on your recovery progress, he will let you know when he wants to see you next at each appointment.

By prioritizing daily skin care – sunscreen, chemical-free lotions, gentle cleansing – you can maintain your results and enjoy smooth, firm, and youthful skin. Dr. Hankins will guide you on the right skin products to aid this process.

How Long Until I See Results?

The length of recovery depends on various factors, including the patient’s age, habits, and skin laxity. Surgical techniques and anesthesia type also influence the healing period. We recommend that patients wait up to a three-month mark to see their final abdominal contour.

How Long Do Results Last?

If you maintain a stable weight and exercise regularly, results can be long-term. Before getting surgery, you should ideally be within your target weight range, as fluctuations of around 10 pounds may affect the appearance of results.

Should I Get a Tummy Tuck If I’m Considering Having Children?

While there are typically no significant risks associated with becoming pregnant after tummy tuck surgery, it is usually recommended that patients wait until they are done having children before undergoing the procedure. Doing so can help ensure the results achieved are not compromised by the bodily changes that often occur during pregnancy.

Our team at Premier Plastic Surgery is always encouraging when patients want to extend their families. If you are considering having kids, please discuss this with Dr. Hankins during your consultation so he can help you navigate your decision to undergo this particular surgical procedure.

What Will the Scarring Look Like?

The scarring depends on the type of tummy tuck you get. A mini tummy tuck scar is between three and six inches, whereas a long scar is from one hip to another. Dr. Hankins tries to place tummy tuck incisions in discreet locations, such as the natural contours of your body.

Like most scars, they start red and pinkish and fade with time into your skin tone. Proper scar care is essential if you are interested in minimal scarring. Our office can provide detailed scar care instructions.

When Can I Exercise Again After My Tummy Tuck?

We recommend taking it easy for the first six weeks after surgery. We encourage gentle walking to prevent blood clots but nothing beyond that. In fact, for the first six weeks after a tummy tuck, you’ll need to be very careful and avoid positions that strain your incision line, such as quickly bending at the waist, or you might risk opening the wound.

Can I Combine a Tummy Tuck With Other Procedures?

Yes, indeed! Many of our patients who receive a tummy tuck in Pearland have combined it with an arm lift, breast augmentation, liposuction, or thigh lift. If you are interested in having any other cosmetic procedure performed, please contact Dr. Hankins to guide you on the best combined treatment plan for your case.

What Are the Risks Associated With a Tummy Tuck?

Given that a tummy tuck is an involved surgery, there are the following risks patients should be mindful of:

Anesthesia risks
Asymmetry
Bleeding
Deep vein thrombosis
Cardiac and pulmonary complications
Fat necrosis
Fluid accumulation
Infection
Numbness or other changes in skin sensation
Persistent pain
Poor wound healing
Possibility of revisional surgery
Recurrent looseness of skin
Skin discoloration and prolonged swelling
Skin loss
Suboptimal aesthetic result
Unfavorable scarring

Schedule a Consultation

Our team at Premier Plastic Surgery is dedicated to helping you reach all your aesthetic goals. To learn more about abdominoplasty and whether a tummy tuck is right for you, contact our office today to schedule your free personal consultation. If you live in Houston, Pearland, Lake Jackson, or the neighboring communities of South Houston, Dr. Hankins can help you achieve a body you won’t want to cover up!

tummy tuck in Houston and Pearland, TX