Dr. Karan Chopra obtained his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. Dr. Chopra has co-authored over 50 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters in highly regarded medical journals including Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Moreover, he was awarded the Johns Hopkins Miller Coulson Award for Clinical Excellence. Dr. Chopra was also trained in migraine surgery and peripheral nerve surgery at the Dellon Institute. He has an ongoing commitment to excellence in cosmetic surgery of the face, eyes, breast, and body. These procedures include facelift, eyelid lifts, breast surgery and, tummy-tuck, fat grafting, Jeuveau, Botox, dermal fillers, and more. Haute Beauty Body and Face Expert Dr. Chopra, who represents the Minnesota market, offers an alternative to the average Tummy Tuck by offering the Drainless Tummy Tuck procedure which has a faster recovery time.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
HB: What is your Drainless Tummy Tuck?
The Drainless Tummy Tuck is an innovative technique that produces impressive results with minimal scarring and faster healing. During the surgery, the most important aspect of this procedure is to place dissolvable sutures throughout the abdominal wall eliminating the need for drainage tubes. We see a noticeable difference in client comfort during postoperative healing with taut, sculpted results.
The standard procedure commonly performed uses drainage tubes placed at both ends of the incision to allow fluids to safely exit the body. Traditional drainage tubes stay intact for up to 1-2 weeks and can be messy and painful for patients to manage at home. They also present a higher risk of secondary infections, such as hematomas and seromas post-operation.
HB: How does the procedure work?
The Drainless Tummy Tuck technique places dissolvable sutures strategically within the abdomen, removing pockets of empty space that can cause fluid build-up. One of my favorite procedures to perform, I take pride in carefully building the foundation of the torso. I remove the extra skin and fat, lift any muscle slack, and use liposuction to sculpt the abdomen, recreating the natural shape of the muscle and placement of the belly button.
HB: Why is this procedure unique to the average Tummy Tuck?
I believe the best results take extensive medical training and expertise but also requires an artistic vision. Many of my patients are “mommy” makeovers and men and women who lost excessive weight.
My aesthetic approach is to first rebuild the internal foundation by tightening the abdominal wall, using liposuction to contour, then working externally to place the skin and belly button in the most natural position possible.
There is an emotional element to this procedure, many of my patients have a deep desire to recreate their best body yet. This is why my personalized approach and empathetic bed side manner is so important to the process. The Drainless Tummy Tuck allows me to manage great expectations that are aligned with stunning results.
Photo Credit: Shutterstock
HB: What is recovery like?
The recovery of a Drainless Tummy Tuck is quicker than that of the standard tummy tuck. Immediately after the surgery, patients wear a compression garment for the next 7-10 days to support the healing of the newly tightened abdominal muscles and prevent swelling. While discomfort thresholds vary, patients experience peak swelling at day three; resume daily life with light walking and lifting of up to 10 pounds; most return to work within two weeks post-surgery; and heal fully within 2-3 weeks.
More strenuous exercise may be resumed in moderation four to six weeks post-surgery. Start off using light weights, as you do not want to aggravate the scar and healing. Please do not do anything that will put excess strain on the incisions.
The look of a youthful sculpted abdomen becomes visible within a few short months post-op.
HB: Who is this procedure for and what is the cost?
The most popular procedure among young mothers who are finished having children and men and women who have excess skin and fat as a result of extreme weight loss, the Drainless Tummy Tuck helps create the patient’s dream abdomen. From start to finish, I work with each patient to create a thoughtful procedure plan, which includes the surgical strategy, anesthesia, and post-op care. After our one-on-one consultation, we’ll provide you with a personalized quote -- most procedures start at ~$12K.
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