Officially known as abdominoplasty, the tummy tuck procedure removes extra fat and skin from the middle and lower abdominal region, while also tightening the muscles in that area. The result is reduced excess bulk in the abdomen area and a flattening of the tummy.
The Procedure
During the procedure, the extra fat is removed and weakened muscles are repaired. This is done with an incision along the bikini line. The length and shape of the incision will vary depending on amount of excess skin. Additionally, excess skin may be trimmed and removed. Liposuction is often added on to the procedure to remove excess fat and add a better contour. Finally, depending on the amount of loose skin being removed, a new opening for your belly button may need to be created and sutured into position.
The first few days after the procedure, patients can expect to be sore and will need someone to help them. Patients need help in varying degrees ranging from help standing, sitting up, using the bathroom, and getting positioned in bed. Additionally, because the abdominal muscles have been tightened, the patient will be bent at the waist for the first few days until they can comfortably stretch those muscles into their normal upright shape. Healing and full recovery usually takes between 1-2 weeks. Your procedural scar will fade for up to a year after surgery. Keep in mind scar fading varies among patients.
The Results
A tummy tuck will not make you lose weight. In fact, the procedure should be done when a patient is at his or her ideal weight but dealing with a belly bulge that won’t budge. After the muscles have been repaired and healed, the desired result of a flatter appearance is achieved.
Safety
While thousands of tummy tucks are done each year, and the numbers are on the rise, all surgeries have risks. Be sure to discuss these risks with your doctor to understand the procedure. Most patients experience no complications.
Good Candidates
Good candidates for a tummy tuck procedure are physically healthy, non-smokers, and at a stable weight. Both men and women may opt for an abdominoplasty. Women who’ve had multiple pregnancies often find more success with a tummy tuck, as abdominal muscles may have been stretched beyond repair. Because the tummy tuck goes underneath to repair those muscles, results are often better than those of diet and exercise alone.
To learn more about the tummy tuck procedure, contact our office today to set up a consultation.
