Tummy Tuck, Abdominoplasty
What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. It can also tighten the abdominal muscles. Tummy tuck surgery can create a flatter, more toned stomach. It can also help improve the appearance of stretch marks and scars. However, it cannot remove all stretch marks, and it will not eliminate all belly fat.
After abdominoplasty, the outcomes are generally long-term. Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle, on the other hand, is critical for preventing future weight gain and regain in the abdominal area.
Types of tummy tuck surgery
There are different types of tummy tuck surgery, depending on the extent of the procedure. A mini tummy tuck focuses on the area below the navel. A full tummy tuck involves an incision from hip to hip and addresses the muscles of the abdomen as well as excess skin and fat.
What should I expect during a consultation for tummy tuck surgery?
During a consultation for tummy tuck surgery, your plastic surgeon will assess your abdominal area and discuss your goals for surgery. They will also ask about your medical history and perform a physical examination.
Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon questions about tummy tuck surgery, including:
- What are their qualifications?
- How many tummy tucks have they performed?
- Where will the surgery be performed?
- What type of anesthesia will be used?
- What are the risks of tummy tuck surgery?
- How long will the surgery take?
- What is the recovery time for tummy tuck surgery?
- What are the possible complications of tummy tuck surgery?
- What results can I expect from tummy tuck surgery?
- How long will the results last?
What are the steps of a tummy tuck surgery & how should I prepare for it?
The steps of a tummy tuck procedure include making an incision in the lower abdomen, removing excess skin and fat, and then suturing the incisions closed. The surgeon may also use drains to help prevent fluid buildup under the skin.
To prepare for a tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon may ask you to stop smoking and avoid taking certain medications, such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and herbal supplements, which can increase the risk of bleeding. You should also eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest to promote healing after surgery.
What should I expect during my tummy tuck recovery?
After surgery, you will likely experience swelling and bruising in the surgical area. You will also have drains in place to remove excess fluid from the surgical site. These drains are usually removed within a week.
Most people take one to two weeks off from work to recover from a tummy tuck. During this time, you should avoid strenuous activity and lifting heavy objects. It may take several months for the incision to heal completely and for the swelling to subside. However, you should see a significant improvement in your appearance soon after surgery.
The results of a tummy tuck are usually long-lasting. However, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to prevent future weight gain and regain in the abdominal area.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
A good candidate for tummy tuck surgery is someone who is at a healthy weight but has loose, saggy skin on their stomach. People who have recently lost a significant amount of weight may also be good candidates.
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
The average cost of a tummy tuck is $6,000. However, the cost will vary depending on the extent of surgery, your surgeon’s fees, and the location of the procedure.
Is a tummy tuck covered by insurance?
In most cases, insurance will not cover the cost of a tummy tuck. However, you may be able to get insurance coverage if the procedure is being performed for medical reasons, such as to correct a hernia.
Is tummy tuck a form of fat removal surgery?
No, tummy tuck surgery is not a form of fat removal surgery. It is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen. It can also tighten the abdominal muscles. Tummy tuck surgery cannot remove all stretch marks, and it will not eliminate all belly fat.
What are the risks of tummy tuck surgery?
The risks of tummy tuck surgery include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. There is also a risk of scarring and nerve damage.
How much weight can I expect to lose after a tummy tuck?
Most people lose between 2 and 5 pounds after a tummy tuck. However, the amount of weight you lose will depend on the extent of surgery, your individual body type, and your lifestyle.
What is the difference between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck?
A full tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. It also tightens the abdominal muscles. A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen. It does not tighten the abdominal muscles.
What results should I expect after a tummy tuck?
After a tummy tuck, you can expect to have a flatter, more toned stomach. The results of surgery are usually long-lasting, but it is important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to prevent future weight gain and regain in the treated area.
Tummy Tuck vs Liposuction – Which Is Better?
While both procedures can provide excellent results, there are some key differences to consider when deciding if a tummy tuck or liposuction is right for you.
Tummy Tuck:
-A tummy tuck is a more invasive procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. It also tightens the abdominal muscles.
-A tummy tuck is ideal for people who are at a healthy weight but have loose, saggy skin on their stomachs.
-A tummy tuck will usually require a week or two of recovery time before you can return to your normal activities.
-The results of a tummy tuck are usually long-lasting. However, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to prevent future weight gain and regain in the abdominal area.
Liposuction:
-Liposuction is a less invasive procedure that removes excess fat from the body. It does not remove skin or tighten muscles.
-Liposuction is ideal for people who are at a healthy weight but have localized pockets of fat that they would like to remove.
-Liposuction will usually require a day or two of recovery time before you can return to your normal activities.
-The results of liposuction are usually long-lasting. However, it is important to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle to prevent future weight gain and regain in the treated area.
If you are considering a tummy tuck or liposuction, be sure to consult with the best tummy tuck surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations.