A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the lower and middle abdomen, and in some cases also tightens the abdominal muscles. Abdominoplasty can give you a flatter, firmer stomach and help improve your body contour.
If you are unhappy with your appearance due to excess skin or fatty deposits around your stomach that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise, you may be considering a tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck is usually performed under general anesthesia and takes about two hours. The surgeon will make an incision in the lower abdomen during the procedure, from hipbone to hipbone. They will then separate the skin from the underlying abdominal muscles and tissue.
Tummy tucks are not only for women
Many people think that tummy tucks are only for women who have had children. However, both men and women can benefit from this plastic surgery procedure.
If you are a man or woman who has lost a significant amount of weight, you may have excess skin around your stomach. This can be addressed with a tummy tuck procedure.
In addition, men and women who have never been pregnant can also experience abdominal separation, which can be corrected through surgery.
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss surgery
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss surgery. It is purely a cosmetic procedure. If you are considering a tummy tuck, you should be at or near your ideal body weight. If you are considering a tummy tuck and are planning on losing a significant amount of weight, it is best to lose the weight first and then have the surgery.
This is because if you lose a significant amount of weight after having a tummy tuck, you may end up with loose skin or an unsatisfactory result.
Types of Tummy Tucks
There are different types of tummy tucks, depending on the amount of skin and fat to be removed and the extent of muscle tightening required.
Mini tummy tuck: As the name suggests, a mini tummy tuck is a less invasive version of the standard procedure. It involves a smaller incision and is usually performed without muscle tightening.
Full tummy tuck: A full tummy tuck removes excess abdominal skin and fat from the entire stomach area, and in some cases also tightens the abdominal muscles.
Extended tummy tuck: An extended tummy tuck is similar to a full tummy tuck, but the incision is made longer so that excess skin and fat can be removed from the love handles or flanks as well.
Recovery
Recovery from a tummy tuck can take four to six weeks. During this time, you will likely experience some pain and swelling. You will also need to wear a compression garment to help with the healing process.
Most people feel well enough to return to work within two weeks, but you should avoid strenuous activity for at least six weeks.
Is tummy tuck surgery right for me?
The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery is to consult with board-certified plastic surgeons only. During your tummy tuck consultation, your surgeon will assess your goals and expectations, and determine whether or not surgery is the best option for you.
If you are considering a tummy tuck, keep in mind that the results are not permanent. Weight gain or pregnancy can cause the skin and muscles to stretch and loosen, and you may require additional surgery in the future.
Tummy tuck surgery is a major procedure, and as with any surgery, there are risks involved. These risks include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and anesthesia complications.
Can a tummy tuck be combined with other treatments?
Tummy tuck surgery is often combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction, to achieve optimal results.
If you are considering a tummy tuck, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your options and to find out if you are a good candidate for the complete mommy makeover procedure.
Who qualifies for a Tummy Tuck Treatment?
Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are individuals who have:
-Excess skin and fat in the abdominal area
-Weak or separated abdominal muscles
-Stretch marks in the abdominal area
-A history of significant weight loss
Generally, good candidates for any cosmetic procedure are non-smokers in good physical health with realistic expectations for the outcome of surgery.
If you are considering a tummy tuck, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations and to find out if you are a good candidate for the procedure.
What other treatment options do I have?
If you are not a good candidate for a tummy tuck or if you are not ready for surgery, there are other options available to help you achieve your goals.
Non-surgical options include:
-Diet and exercise
-Weight loss
-Laser therapy
-Radiofrequency therapy
These options can help to improve the appearance of the abdominal area, but they will not provide the same results as surgery.
Say Goodbye to Excess Fat and Skin with Tummy Tuck Surgery
If you are unhappy with your appearance due to excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, tummy tuck surgery may be right for you. Tummy tuck surgery can remove excess skin and fat, and in some cases also tighten the abdominal muscles.
Recovery from a tummy tuck can take four to six weeks, and you should avoid strenuous activity for at least six weeks. Most people feel well enough to return to work within two weeks.
Tighten the abdominal muscles
With age, pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and genetics, the abdominal muscles can stretch and separate. This can cause a bulge in the stomach area. Tummy tuck surgery can tighten the abdominal muscles, resulting in a flatter, more toned stomach.
Dr. Jim Brantner is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery procedures on the face, breast, and body. Dr. Brantner will work with you to determine if tummy tuck surgery is the best option to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today!
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