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For those people considering a tummy tuck in Baltimore, Dr. Birely is one of the most experienced board-certified plastic surgeons in Maryland.


What Is A Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery, or more accurately an abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and fat and, restores weakened and or separated muscles resulting in an abdominal profile that is smooth and firm.

The loose skin on your stomach may give you the appearance of having excess fat when there actually is only extra skin that is covering your profile.

Why is a Tummy Tuck Needed?

Some people with a mostly normal body weight and proportion can develop a tummy that protrudes or is loose and saggy creating a 'pot belly' look. This is most commonly the result of:

  • Aging
  • Genetics
  • Pregnancy
  • Previous Surgery
  • Significant Weight Fluctuations
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View Our Tummy Tuck Before and After Gallery


In most cases, the surest testament to a surgeon’s skill is the visual result. Within our gallery, you’ll find many such testaments, allowing you to further decide if Dr. Birely is the right choice for you.

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Tummy Tuck, Mommy Makeover on ABC MD Spot Light

An Ideal Solution for that Post-Baby Pooch


Many women are unhappy with the tone and shape of their abdomen after pregnancy. A tummy tuck is an ideal solution for removing the excess skin, stretch marks, and fat pockets that are nearly impossible to eliminate through diet and exercise or creams.

As a key part of an overall Mommy Makeover, an abdominoplasty in combination with breast augmentation and some targeted liposuction can restore that pre-pregnancy body you once had. Surgeon Dr. Brent Birely is known for his natural results that turn back the clock with finesse. He is a perfectionist who blends a keen artistic sense with his highly developed skill as a surgeon which makes him one of the most sought after for a tummy tuck in Baltimore.

Am I an Ideal Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

There are a few distinct characteristics that are ideal for tummy tuck candidates. If you suffer from the following problem areas, or find these descriptions accurate to your own body, you may benefit from surgery.

  • Excess skin around the abdomen not reduced with diet or exercise
  • Sagging areas caused by massive weight loss
  • Bulges or unshapely looking stomach post pregnancy
  • General displeasure with the appearance of your abdomen

Once you have considered the procedure, a consultation with Dr. Birely, to discuss the best approach to your particular situation. Dr. Birely can address any questions or concerns while determining if a procedure could help you reduce your problem areas.


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Tummy Tuck Procedure

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis at a certified surgical center fully staffed with top tier medical personnel. When you arrive, you will be taken into the surgical area. You will be made comfortable and have an opportunity to speak with Dr. Birely before you receive the general anesthetic. You will be in some of the most capable hands for a tummy tuck Baltimore can provide.

Surgery

The procedure is straightforward and will take approximately 2 hours. During surgery, Dr. Birely takes great care placing incisions in areas where they will be well covered with underwear or a bikini. Dr. Birely will remove excess fatty pockets from the abdomen and then repair sagging and separated muscles which will create a flat tummy and also provide greater stability in the lower back and abdomen.

Excess skin is removed at the bottom of the incision which also removes most of the stretch marks. The navel will likely need to be repositioned and then the incision is carefully and meticulously closed using advanced suturing techniques to maximize healing success.

POST-OP

You will be constantly monitored by the anesthesiologist to ensure your comfort and safety and once the surgery is over, you will recover for a few hours in the recovery suite.

Once you are awake and alert, you will be examined and cleared to go home. Someone will need to drive you home and stay with you for at least the first 24 hours to help you as needed with meals, medication and to deal with family matters so you can rest.

You will have been given comprehensive post operative instructions before surgery as well as a pain medication prescription. You will see Dr. Birely a few days after surgery so he can check your progress. This is why he is one of the most popular destinations for a tummy tuck in Baltimore, Maryland.

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    What to Expect from my Tummy Tuck?

    During your consultation for a tummy tuck, Dr. Birely will go over the surgery and the steps you can expect. The consultation will cover any medical conditions and drug allergies that you may have, while also covering any other surgeries you have gone through in the past. At that time, treatment options will be discussed based on your previous health records. According to your individual needs, the techniques and needs of your tummy tuck surgery will be determined.

    However, most tummy tuck surgeries follow a similar method. Patients will be under general anesthesia or sedation during surgery. While you are sleeping, Dr. Birely will tighten stomach skin and restore damaged muscle. Your belly button may need to be recreated, depending on the amount of skin removed during your procedure. Your surgery will be complete once the incisions are closed and anesthesia wears off.

    The Mini Tummy Tuck

    A mini tummy tuck can be a less-invasive alternative for those with mild skin laxity. A mini tummy tuck only addresses imperfections below the belly button. The procedure removes a “pooch” on the lower stomach but does not involve tightening the abdominal wall or repositioning the belly button. A mini tummy targets that stubborn excess skin and fat that just won’t disappear.


    Benefits of Mini Tummy Tuck

    A mini tummy tuck is meant for those individuals whose body “bounced back” relatively well after pregnancy or weight loss but have been left with that last little bit of skin, fat, and tissue lingering on the lower abdomen.

    You may be diligent about maintaining a healthy lifestyle but are unable to achieve the flat, contoured stomach you desire. You may be able to enjoy the many benefits of a mini tummy tuck, including:

    • Shorter incision, resulting in a discreet scar
    • Procedure can be completed in under an hour in many cases
    • Speedy recovery with less time off work

    If you have stubborn fat or skin laxity but didn’t think it was “enough” for a full tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck may be ideal.

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    Which Type of Tummy Tuck is Right for Me?

    A full tummy tuck is typically used for muscle separation, skin laxity above or below the belly button, and repositioning the belly button. It can be used for those with poor skin elasticity or following dramatic weight loss and pregnancy. A mini tummy tuck is used for those with good skin elasticity who simply have a small area of excess skin or fat on the lower tummy.

    Dr. Birely is a conservative surgeon who will only recommend what is needed to get the smooth, contoured tummy you desire. However, if a mini tummy tuck simply won’t provide the extent of change you envision, a full tummy tuck may be recommended. He will help you evaluate all options and craft a custom treatment plan to match your individual needs.

    What is the Recovery Process after Tummy Tuck Surgery?

    After your abdominoplasty in Baltimore with Dr. Birely, bandages and dressings will be applied to the incisions. You can expect a small tube to be placed under the skin for drain purposes. This helps to reduce any excess fluid from the procedure. Additional medications may be prescribed to alleviate and minimize pain. A compression garment may also be required for abdominal support. Guidelines may also be given to you with the following instructions:

    • When and how often to empty surgical drains
    • Activity levels to maintain (walking is recommended)
    • How and when to shower or clean your incision site
    • Checking your temperature
    • What sleeping positions reduce incision stress

    These and more instructions will be given to you for your benefit. In regards to scarring, the final healing will take up to a few months. Some patients return to work within a 2 week time frame. You can expect healing and results after 1 or 2 months. If you have any additional questions about the procedure, please schedule a consultation for abdominoplasty in Baltimore with Dr. Birely today. He will be able to answer questions specific to your body.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Cosmetic procedures often involve a combination of medical necessity and personal desire. If you are unclear about what a tummy tuck can and cannot do, it can be difficult to make a decision. The first step is to fully understand the procedure and how it can create a smoother, firmer abdomen.

    Is A Tummy Tuck A Replacement For Weight Loss?

    Will I Have A Scar?

    Is Liposuction Required?

    Can I Have A Pregnancy After A Tummy Tuck?

    Is A Tummy Tuck Only For Women?

    How Long Will My Results Last?

    How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost?

    Will Insurance Cover My Tummy Tuck?

    What Kind Of Results Can I Expect?

    Why Dr. Birely?

    Is A Tummy Tuck A Replacement For Weight Loss?

    A tummy tuck is not a surgical alternative to weight loss. This is a procedure that is best suited for those who have already achieved their weight goals, but now want to address excess or sagging skin, stretch marks, split abdominal muscles, and other problems that resulted from pregnancy or past weight gain.

    Will I Have A Scar?

    Who wouldn't be worried about surgical scars? The fact is that the incision required for this surgery is made below the panty line and will be invisible in underwear or a bikini bottom. Moreover, our skilled plastic surgeon, Dr. Birely employs a variety of surgical techniques that make the scar as thin, fine, and light as possible.

    Is Liposuction Required?

    Each person's situation is unique. Not every tummy tuck procedure includes liposuction. Whether your procedure will require this treatment will be based upon your individual condition and your aesthetic goals for your body shape.

    Can I Have A Pregnancy After A Tummy Tuck?

    Not everyone who considers a tummy tuck has had a child. If you have concerns that having this procedure before you have a baby will cause problems, you need not be concerned.

    While it's true that a tummy tuck does not impact your ability to have a healthy pregnancy, it is also true that pregnancy will cause skin and tissue stretching. While many women don't have any repercussions, others may find that the abdomen does not fully return to its pre-pregnancy, post-surgery firmness.

    Is A Tummy Tuck Only For Women?

    Men don't bear children, but it is common that they develop loose and sagging abdominal skin and excess fatty deposits in the abdomen as they age. Exercise alone may not be enough to give you the taut stomach you envision. A tummy tuck can restore your abdomen to a firmer, more youthful, athletic appearance.

    How Long Will My Results Last?

    Your smooth tummy can last for years or even decades to come. That being said, your skin is still elastic, and gaining weight or pregnancy can alter your results. You should avoid getting pregnant or wait until after you have finished having children to have tummy tuck surgery. After your mini tummy tuck, a healthy lifestyle will help you maintain the taut, youthful look of your abdomen.

    How Much Does A Tummy Tuck Cost?

    There are many factors impacting the cost of a tummy tuck procedure, including the type of tummy tuck and any additional procedures like liposuction or a Mommy Makeover. A tummy tuck alone can range from $4,000 to $7,000. Our board-certified surgeon will review the costs associated with your custom tummy tuck during your consultation.

    Will Insurance Cover My Tummy Tuck?

    Insurance does not typically cover elective or cosmetic procedures, and tummy tucks typically fall into those categories. In some rare cases, insurance may cover a portion of the surgery if a medical need is present, such as a hernia. Our friendly administrative staff is ready to help you with these questions.

    What Kind Of Results Can I Expect?

    A tummy tuck can dramatically improve your body’s proportions and reduce unwanted skin and fat around the stomach. Your contoured tummy will make your clothing fit better, and look more flattering, a big boost to your self-confidence. You may be inclined to start wearing revealing bikinis after a tummy tuck, as your abdomen will appear flat and fit. A tummy tuck can be a wonderful way to reward yourself for accomplishments such as having children or losing weight!

    Why Dr. Birely?

    You don't just want a "good" result from your surgery. You want the best result possible.

    One of the measures of a successful cosmetic procedure is that it looks natural. Achieving this kind of result involves exceptional surgical skills and experience, including a deep understanding of skin, muscle, and tissue structure that comes from both scientific knowledge and practical experience.

    A board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience, Dr. Birely brings skill and compassion to his work. Patients in the Baltimore area who are considering a tummy tuck are truly fortunate to have access to his services.

    Dr. Birely explained everything to us step by step and was very patient with our questions. One of his staff members had a tummy tuck and I was able to ask her ...

    I got a Breast Reduction and Tummy Tuck about a year ago. I just went out and bought my first bathing suit in 15 years. For the first time in a LONG time, I did...

    Dr. Brent Birely has a wonderful bedside manner and is an excellent surgeon. He explained everything to us. He answers your questions directly. His staff is gre...

    I want to thank all of you for being so caring and helping me reach my goals. Your genuine concern went a long way and made a real difference in my life. I felt...

    410.346.5246

    Dr. Brent Birely is a board-certified plastic surgeon with offices in Lutherville and Bel Air, serving patients from Baltimore, Towson, Columbia, Westminster, and other Maryland cities. He is a very well regarded leader in cosmetic surgery and patient safety, and specializes in procedures including breast augmentation, tummy tuck, mommy makeover, facelift, and body lifting procedures after weight loss.

    *The content/images on this website are not a guarantee of individual results. Individual results may vary. The information provided on this site is for general informational purposes only and does not replace the need for a formal consultation with a plastic and reconstructive surgeon before undergoing a surgical procedure or skin care treatment.

    Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 410.346.5246.
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