Tummy Tuck
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed primarily to improve the appearance of the torso. It often also involves tightening of the abdominal muscles that are typically stretched out during pregnancy.
A flat and well-toned abdomen is something many of us strive for through exercise and weight control. Sometimes these methods cannot achieve our goals.
An abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program. In general, you may be a good tummy tuck candidate if:
- You are physically healthy and at a stable weight
- You have realistic expectations
- You are a nonsmoker
- You are bothered by the appearance of your abdomen
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Best Candidates
The best way to find out if you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck is to schedule a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. During your consultation, the surgeon will examine your abdomen and ask you about your goals for surgery. He or she will also discuss the potential risks and complications of surgery with you.
If you are planning to have more children, you may want to wait to have a tummy tuck until after you are done having children. This is because the surgery may involve surgically closing any separation of the abdominal muscles, which may make future pregnancies more difficult.
Tummy Tuck Procedure
The tummy tuck procedure can be performed as an outpatient procedure or with an overnight stay in the hospital. The length of the surgery will depend on the extent of correction necessary.
During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision in the lower abdomen, just above the pubic area. He or she will then separate the skin from the underlying abdominal muscles and stitch them together to create a tighter, firmer abdominal wall. The excess skin will be removed and the incisions will be closed with stitches.
Recovery
You can expect some discomfort and swelling after the surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage any discomfort you may experience. You will also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to help minimize swelling and support your abdomen as it heals.
Check out our tummy tuck blog.
Tummy Tuck vs Panniculectomy
Learn the difference in an Abdominoplasty and a Panniculectomy. Click the image to read!
