Tummy tuck procedures are not just for women; there has been a significant increase in the amount of men undergoing abdominoplasty surgery in the past few years. Abdominoplasty for men may not give you instant six-pack abs, but it will slim down your overall physique, increase the definition of your abdominal muscles, and improve your appearance.
Candidates
Candidates for an abdominoplasty should be in good overall health, nonsmoker and have realistic expectations for results. Fluctuations in weight gain and aging play into a man’s overall appearance, and can be corrected with a tummy tuck surgery. Men who have fatty tissue areas and loose skin that simply doesn’t go away with diet and exercise are good candidates for a tummy tuck procedure. In some cases, liposuction which removes excess fat under the skin, may be recommended in addition to or instead of the abdominoplasty.
Surgical Procedure
The tummy tuck procedure tones and sculpts your abdominal walls. The surgical process begins with two incisions across the hip bones near the pubic bone and around the navel. The surgeon then separates the skin from the muscles and tightens the muscles using sutures. This process of pulling and tightening results in a slimmer overall look. If necessary, excess skin and fat may be trimmed to complete the procedure.
Often a tummy tuck is combined with liposuction in order to remove excess fat deposits. Once complete, the skin is stretched down, and sutures applied. Bandages and dressings wrap the area to support the healing process.
Risks
As with any surgery, risks are involved. Always be upfront with your surgeon to not only minimize risks, but understand risks involved. Also be sure to provide your surgeon with your complete medical history, the details of your lifestyle, and any current medications.
Recovery
Plan to be out of work for up to ten days and have limited mobility during the first two weeks. You will need to avoid heavy lifting and exercise for up to six weeks. Your plastic surgeon will apply bandages and you may also need to wear an elastic garment to help the healing process. Plan to have help changing the bandages as needed, as well as for showering and dressing until you return to your full mobility.
Results
The results of a tummy tuck provide a more sleek and svelte appearance, reducing or removing any unwanted skin folds that hang over the abdomen. A trimmer more youthful appearance and a tighter, toned abdomen are the results you can expect from an abdominoplasty surgery.
If you’re considering male abdominoplasty, contact St. Charles Plastic Surgery to set up a consultation today.