Bizymom Interviews Columbus plastic surgeon Jeffrey H. Donaldson, MD

An Interview with Dr. Jeffrey H. Donaldson on Tummy Tuck

Q. What is a tummy tuck?

A. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that flattens and rejuvenates the abdomen. While some surgeons are content to simply remove the “spare tire,” I spend extra time to eliminate the bulge and stretch marks between the belly button and pubic area, tighten the “six-pack” muscles, refine the belly button and recontour the “love handles” to enhance the feminine curves above the hips.

Q. How is a tummy tuck performed?

A. I begin by making precise measurements and markings before the patient goes under anesthesia, so
she can have some input regarding the position and length of the final scar. Once the patient is asleep,
I routinely begin with gentle liposuction of the flanks to achieve the soft, attractive “hourglass” shape.
Next, I bring the abdominal muscles back together if they have been stretched by pregnancy or weight
fluctuations, then I remove the extra fat and skin that accumulates in the lower part of the belly.
Finally, I refine the belly button and spend extra time making the scar as invisible as possible: I hide it
within the pubic area so it is disguised by swimsuits, underwear and low-cut jeans.

Q. How long does tummy tuck surgery take?

A. It takes me between two and three hours, depending upon the patient’s individual anatomy and
goals. I take a highly customized, personalized approach to each operation.

Q. Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?

A. Yes. These include bleeding, infection, fluid collection and poor wound healing — fortunately, they
can be minimized through meticulous technique and attention to detail. Extreme obesity and tobacco
use increase these risks, and pregnancy after a tummy tuck might necessitate a touch-up revision.

Q. What should one expect after the operation?

A. The procedure is outpatient, same-day surgery and comfort is maximized with an aggressive pain
control regimen. The patient wears a supportive binder, and should maintain a slightly hunched-over
position for to avoid stretching the scar. During the first two or three days, the patient limits activity
and tries to rest; for the next several days, normal house activities are encouraged and by one week
light work duty is allowed. By two weeks to three weeks most patients begin to feel “back to normal”
and strenuous exercise may resume at four to six weeks. I insist on close follow-up and honest
communication during the first couple of weeks to monitor for correct healing. Once recovery is
complete, one should expect youthful, natural, beautiful results!

Q. How much does a tummy tuck cost?

A. The surgeon’s fee is approximately $5000, and OR/anesthesia fees bring the total to around
$8000.

Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?

A. Forever, unless the patient becomes pregnant or experiences massive weight fluctuations. When a
tummy tuck is combined with breast enhancement, it is widely known as a “mommy makeover,” which
has the most dramatic and long-lasting effect.

Most breast augmentations are straightforward procedures with beautiful results, but on occasion, a bothersome process known as capsular contracture develops. This occurs when the body tries to wall off an implant as a foreign object (like a splinter) with an abnormal amount of scar tissue. The scarring can be firm, and even painful when severe.

The Causes Of Capsular Contracture Are Debated, But There Is Consensus Regarding Preventative Techniques & Proper Treatment 

Experts are not convinced about what causes capsular contractures: some think it is bacteria or “biofilm,” while others believe it is trauma from surgery. Regardless, the reported incidence is anywhere from two to thirty percent depending upon the surgeon.

Dr. Donaldson takes many precautions to prevent capsular contractures in his own practice. First, he uses meticulous sterile techniques and antibiotics to avoid bacteria and infection. He insists on “no touch” handling of implants so they go directly into position without delay. He operates with a soft touch — “gentle with tissue” – to minimize trauma. These simple principles have helped Dr. Donaldson achieve an extremely low rate of capsular contracture.

About The Author

A number of Columbus, Ohio patients visit Dr. Jeffrey Donaldson for second opinions regarding capsular contracture treatment. For these individuals, he performs an operation including capsulotomy (scoring and release of capsules) or capsulectomy (removal of capsules), with the removal of the old breast implants and placement of new breast implants. He has performed thousands of successful breast augmentation surgeries throughout his 20+ year tenure and looks to further educate individuals across the country.