Is a Tummy Tuck Right For Me?
Sometimes, due to weight loss or pregnancy, we can see excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. Diet and exercise may not fully resolve the issue. As a result, medical intervention may be needed. To achieve a slim, toned abdomen a tummy tuck procedure can be done.
What Is A Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure where excess skin and fat are removed. It also involves tightening the abdominal muscles. Liposuction is sometimes done in combination with a tummy tuck to achieve optimal results.
There are two main types of a tummy tuck:
1.Full Abdominoplasty: This is a more complex procedure that involves removing more skin and fat, and re-positioning the belly button with the new shape of your abdomen.
2.Mini Abdominoplasty: This version is used for those whose main area of concern is centered under the navel, and they don’t have much excess fat or skin in other places. It does not take away as much skin and fat as a full abdominoplasty, but can involve liposuction and tightening of the abdominal musculature.
The type of tummy tuck your medical provider chooses will depend on your body and goals.
Risks
All surgical procedures entail the possibility of complications. Some potential risks following a tummy tuck include:
- Pain;
- Swelling;
- Bruising;
- Infection;
- Blood clots;
- Improper healing or scarring.
Having conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, poor circulation, or liver disease can make complications more likely. Be sure to discuss your medical history with your surgeon to ensure your safety and to make sure this procedure is for you.
Working with a well-qualified medical provider and diligently following aftercare instructions will decrease your chances of complications and help you heal more quickly.
Who Is A Good Candidate?
Depending on what your future plans are, this procedure can help if you:
- Are in good health;
- Have lost significant weight and maintained it;
- Can accept the scars.
However, you should reconsider or postpone your tummy tuck if:
- You are a woman planning to have more children;
- You are still in the process of losing weight;
- You have a history of keloid scarring.
Benefits
There are a variety of benefits to having a tummy tuck. These will differ between patients but can include:
- Improving body shape;
- Reducing or eliminating stress incontinence;
- Improving abdominal strength;
- Improving posture;
- Potentially correcting ventral hernias.
Recovery
Your post-operative recovery can effect your life in some very drastic ways. It is imperative that you follow the instructions of your doctor following your procedure. Some of the most important things to know about recovery are:
- You will have restrictions on things like driving and exercise for a while.
- You will probably have drains in temporarily.
- You may need up to 1 month off of work.
- Feeling your old self may take time.
- Having a healthy diet and exercising will help to heal and maintain results.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering a tummy tuck, book a consultation with the team at Patrick L. Basile, M.D. Plastic Surgery & Wellness today to get started!
