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Tummy Tuck
Guide to Getting a Tummy Tuck
Tummy tuck, also known as Abdominoplasty, helps to significantly reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen, loose skin, and stretch marks in the abdominal area. As one of top five plastic surgery procedures, many people turn to a tummy tuck as a result of pregnancy, age or obesity when the muscles in the abdominal wall have weakened and weight loss cannot be achieved through diet or exercise. The following provides an overview, including:
Tummy Tuck:
The size of the abdomen can be reduced through a tummy tuck. Yet, tummy tuck focuses on addressing the weakened protruding muscles in the abdomen and excess skin. Liposuction may be required to achieve a fully satisfactory outcome. Panniculectomy may be performed to achieve stronger results such as those necessary for a post obese person. Mini-tummy tuck's focus on the lack of requirement for extensive muscle and skin elasticity improvements. Abdominal etching helps to create a "six pack"? abdominal appearance.
Anesthesia, Location and Time:
Tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia. The procedure may be performed in a hospital whereby the surgeon has privileges to perform it or an out patient surgical center. The procedure may require up to two to five hours of time. The mini tummy tuck may require up to two hours of time.
Tummy Tuck Techniques:
The fundamental approach to a tummy tuck involves an extensive horizontal incision across the top of the pubic area. The skin will be separated from the abdominal wall. Then, excess skin and fat are removed. The tissue connecting the navel may be removed which will alter the navel. Finally, the muscles are lifted, repositioned and sutured tightly together. The belly button is sutured in place.
The Mini Tummy Tuck does not require extensive incision, muscle repositioning, or excess skin removal. The plastic surgeon may use an endoscope to visually guide the surgeon through a small incision to the treatment area.
Tummy Tuck Recovery:
Plastic surgeons provide a complete list of pre and post operative instructions in order to reduce the risk of complications and allow for a more comfortable recovery. Tummy tuck patients can usually return to work and participate in most normal activities within three weeks of surgery. Yet, there may be restrictions on activities or the use of recovery aids for a longer period of time. Most patients are pleased with the outcome of the procedure.
Tummy Tuck Before and After Photos:
Imaging helps to describe outcomes of breast surgery procedures. Viewing before and after photos on websites and in the practices that you wish to visit can help set reasonable expectations for the outcome of your procedure
Tummy Tuck Risks:
As with all medical procedures, there are risks associated with tummy tuck.
Risks associated with tummy tuck are reduced when pre and post operative instructions are followed by the patient. Most patients are fully satisfied with the results of the procedure.
Hematoma:
Hematomas (blood clots) may result from a tummy tuck. Treatment for a hematoma depends upon your particular situation.
Numbness:
Some numbness may result through a tummy tuck procedure.
Pregnancy:
Patients are advised to postpone abdominoplasty until all pregnancies have been complete.
Tummy Tuck Costs:
Tummy Tuck costs vary among plastic surgeons. Factors relating to cost include: the geographic location of the surgeon, the type of facility used to perform the procedure, the technique, and the surgeon's experience with the procedure.
View board certified plastic surgeons in your area, read about tummy tuck from the plastic surgeon's prospective, view before and after photos, and discuss your plastic surgery needs.