A tummy tuck, also referred to as an abdominoplasty, is a popular plastic surgery procedure for the removal of excessive skin and fat on the stomach. A tummy tuck is also used to restore separated or damaged muscles and create a firmer abdominal profile.
Some of the common reasons why you might have a loss of muscle definition, loose skin, and/or excess fat on your abdominal area are:
• Aging• Heredity• Pregnancy• Excessive weight loss/weight gain• A previous surgery
While the above reasons definitely render you a suitable candidate for a tummy tuck, there are also individuals whose body weight is within the normal range and yet show a protruding abdomen with loose sagging skin. These individuals could also benefit from a tummy tuck.
An abdominoplasty will leave you with a smooth, flat, and well-shaped abdomen which might otherwise be difficult to achieve through diet and exercise. Instead of spending a seemingly endless amount of time performing ab routines that don’t work, you should consider getting a tummy tuck to achieve the results you desire.
The Procedure
A full tummy tuck procedure begins with the administration of general anesthesia. This will effectively eliminate any discomfort and allows you to feel more comfortable during the procedure.
In a full tummy tuck, the plastic surgeon makes a horizontal incision in between your belly button and pubic hairline. Another incision (close to the naval) might be required for removal of extra skin on the upper part of your abdomen.
After the abdominal skin is lifted, the damaged or weakened muscles lying beneath are repaired by the surgeon.The plastic surgeon will pull down the skin on your upper abdomen and trim the excess skin while tightening the loose abdominal muscles. Excess fat will also be removed.
What you get is a flat and beautiful-looking abdominal wall. Your navel will be moved and placed at an appropriate position, and the surgeon will suture the remaining abdominal skin to complete the full tummy tuck.
Tummy Tuck as a Combination Procedure
Often times people will combine a tummy tuck with other procedures to achieve the results that are perfect for them. Mommy makeover patients combine tummy tuck surgery with breast procedures such as breast augmentation or a breast lift to quickly get their bodies whipped back into shape after child-birth.
Dr. Pope also may perform a tummy tuck as part of a body lift for post-bariatric surgery patients who are looking to reduce the size of their abdominal skin after weight loss.
Recovery
Most tummy tucks are possible to perform on an outpatient basis. This means that you can return home within a couple of hours after surgery. Sometimes, your plastic surgeon might ask you to stay overnight at the clinical facility or hospital to monitor your progress in the initial recovery hours.
Part of your recovery period may involve taking care of surgical drains. These tubes are used to transfer fluids out of the body. They are essential for avoiding fluid buildup that can lead to seromas and hematomas.
As far as getting back to work is concerned, this largely depends on the nature of your job (e.g. desk job, physically demanding job). Generally speaking, it is possible to resume work within around two weeks of an abdominoplasty, with a full recovery expected within six weeks.
Contact Our Office
Contact Dr. George Pope, a board-certified plastic surgeon, to schedule your tummy tuck consultation. He’ll develop a plan to help you achieve your aesthetic goals so that you can look good and feel great in your body.
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