A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure used for removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. Age, weight gain, pregnancy, or any other body-altering event can cause the abdominal region to become saggy. A tummy tuck helps create a flatter, smoother, and more contoured midsection. Abdominoplasty requires the expertise of the best plastic surgeon for effective and long-lasting results.
Preparing for the Tummy Tuck Procedure
During your first visit, your plastic surgeon’s aim is to make you comfortable with the procedure. They will explain how a tummy tuck surgery works and its benefits. Here are a few things you can expect the doctor to cover:
Complete a Physical Exam
The doctor will examine your abdomen to measure the amount of excess skin, fat, and muscle tone. They may also take pictures for medical records. To qualify for a tummy tuck, you should have good skin elasticity and muscle tone and be at or near your ideal body weight.
Discuss Your Medical History
Your doctor will want to know about any medications and health conditions you have that may affect your surgery. Some conditions, such as diabetes, heart problems, and a history of blood clots, can increase your risk for complications. For safety reasons, you may get additional tests, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG) or blood work.
Listen to Your Goals
After examining you, your doctor will explain what the surgery can and cannot do for you. They will provide detailed information about the recovery process and any possible risks or complications. Elaborate on your expectations to keep you and your surgeon on the same page.
Provide Pre-op Instructions
Before the procedure, your doctor will explain which medications to avoid. They may also recommend ways to minimize the risk of infection, such as avoiding certain foods and alcohol. Quit smoking for a few weeks before surgery. Smoking hinders blood circulation, slowing down the healing process.
What To Expect During Your Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is an outpatient procedure, which means you can go home the same day. The procedure lasts several hours and is performed under general anesthesia. During the process, your surgeon will separate the skin from the abdominal muscles, trim and remove excess skin, and tighten the underlying muscle. Your doctor may also place a drainage tube to prevent fluid buildup under the incision.
Find the Best Plastic Surgeon for Your Procedure
The surgeon you choose for the procedure can make a huge difference in the results. The best plastic surgeon should have years of experience in conducting tummy tucks.
Check for board certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery and other relevant organizations. If they’re certified, it means they’ve met all the necessary requirements to perform the procedure. You can also visit a potential surgeon’s clinic to learn more about their practice and ask for before and after photos of previous patients.
Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
A tummy tuck produces a dramatic transformation in the abdominal area and offers advantages like:
Minimizing the Risk of Medical Conditions
A tummy tuck surgery may help lower the risk of developing conditions such as sleep apnea, diabetes, heart disease, gallbladder problems, and hernias. When the abdominal muscles are tightened during surgery, it helps improve posture and support for internal organs.
Reinforcing Your Core Muscles
Having a flatter, tighter abdomen helps make the core muscles stronger and better able to support your body. This can help improve physical performance, reduce the risk of injury during exercise, and aid in weight loss. It can also help reduce back pain, a major hindrance to an active lifestyle.
Correcting Ventral Hernias
A ventral hernia occurs when the abdominal wall weakens, resulting in a tear or bulge. It can cause serious medical complications like infection and necrosis. Abdominoplasty repairs the weakened wall by tightening and suturing it. The surgery helps prevent the hernia from reoccurring.
Schedule a Tummy Tuck Plastic Surgery
A tummy tuck can help give you a flatter, smoother midsection and improve your body image. It also offers several physical benefits, such as a more toned abdomen and a lower risk of specific medical conditions. When performed by the best plastic surgeon, this procedure can provide long-lasting health and cosmetic benefits.