Scheduling an abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is a personal decision. This procedure reshapes and tightens the abdomen to create a slimmer, more aesthetically pleasing shape. Ideal candidates for abdominoplasty are nonsmokers with healthy body weight. If you want to know more about a tummy tuck procedure, here is a guide to consider.
Childbirth may result in weight loss. This often results in a sagging pouch below the navel. A past abdominal surgery may result in the same pouch. A tummy tuck is a procedure capable of removing excess skin and fat in the abdomen. Eliminating the loose tissue helps enhance the abdomen’s aesthetic appearance.
The doctor will assess the patient well during consultation. Reviewing the patient’s medical and family histories can help determine which type of procedure applies to the patient. The patient’s cosmetic goals are also part of the treatment plan. Below are the different types of tummy tucks that the doctor may recommend:
This procedure is a good option for patients with loose skin, a "pouch," or stretch marks on the lower abdomen. With this surgery, the surgeon will make a small incision. This will be the entry point for removing excess skin. This can then help to strengthen the loose abdominal muscles. This procedure is quick and relatively simple with minimal scarring and a fast recovery.
Patients with excessive skin folds and roundness of the whole abdomen, both above and below the belly button, may benefit most from this procedure. This procedure uses a U-shaped or horizontal incision on the upper pubic area allowing the removal of excess skin and tightening of the abdominal muscles. A second incision near the navel is sometimes required to remove additional skin from the upper abdomen. Scarring from this procedure generally runs between the hip bones. It is more significant than scarring from a mini tuck.
Individuals with significant loss of abdominal muscle tone following multiple pregnancies can have this procedure. People with a great deal of sagging skin due to a high degree of weight loss are also good candidates for this surgery. This procedure uses a longer incision to tighten the abdominal wall. This incision can eliminate excess skin from the entire abdomen as well as the flanks.
This surgery removes excess skin. The doctor will tailor-fit the procedure based on the patient’s needs. Reviewing the patient’s medical history is important. Ordering ultrasounds, X-rays, and additional imaging can confirm the condition of the abdomen. The patient must be ready to answer different questions about lifestyle and health. The doctor can also combine this procedure with liposuction.
Preparing for the procedure starts with understanding the precautions. The doctor will explain the surgery and the instructions well. Smokers must quit at least six weeks before the tummy tuck procedure. This can prevent complications. Losing weight before the surgery is also advisable.
The patient must avoid taking anti-inflammatories, aspirin, and herbal supplements. Six hours before the surgery, the patient must avoid eating or drinking. Doing so will prepare the body well for the general anesthetic. There will be some pain and swelling after the procedure. The doctor will provide medications to help manage the discomfort.
The length of the procedure will depend on how much loose skin needs removal. This tummy tuck only needs to remove a small amount of skin. The procedure can take about one and a half hours. The doctor will start by placing the patient under general anesthesia. The incision will be under the navel around the pubic area. The length of the incision will depend on how much tissue the doctor will need to remove.
Most abdominoplasties are outpatient procedures. This allows the patients to return home a few hours after the completion of the surgery. In some instances, extended tummy tuck patients must remain overnight in the hospital. This enables the doctor to keep an eye on the patient.
The recovery period from abdominoplasty includes some soreness and discomfort for approximately a week or two. Patients will likely have temporary drains placed in their incisions for fluid removal post-surgery. Returning to work after two to four weeks can be possible. Avoiding stressful situations and strenuous activities is necessary for a complete recovery.
An abdominoplasty can be a beneficial procedure for otherwise healthy and fit patients who experience lax abdominal muscles, protrusion of the belly area, or sagging skin. The results of a tummy tuck procedure can provide a better-looking body. It can also enhance the patient’s self-image. Working with your doctor can help you get good results from this surgery.
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