A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess fat and skin from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The surgery is usually performed on women who have had children and whose skin has become stretched and saggy as a result.
If you’re considering having a tummy tuck, you’re not alone. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), more than 200,000 Americans underwent this procedure in 2016. If you’re thinking about getting a tummy tuck, keep reading for some things you need to know.
Benefits of Getting a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck can help address several issues related to excess fat and skin in the abdominal area, including:
- Reducing excess loose skin
- Tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles
- Removing stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise
The result is a firmer, flatter stomach and a more toned silhouette.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
The ideal candidate for abdominoplasty is in good health, not significantly overweight, and has realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. Those who have had multiple pregnancies or significant weight fluctuations may also be good candidates.
What to Expect During Surgery
A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia, so you won’t feel any discomfort during surgery. The procedure typically takes two to four hours, depending on how much work needs to be done. During the surgery, your plastic surgeon will make an incision from hip to hip along your bikini line and another around your navel. Excess fat and skin will then be removed, and your abdominal muscles may need to be tightened. Finally, the incisions will be closed with sutures or staples.
What to Expect After Surgery
After the surgery is complete, you’ll be taken to a recovery room where you’ll be monitored for several hours. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and pain after the procedure – all of which should subside over time. Your surgeon may also recommend that you wear a compression garment for up to six weeks following your tummy tuck to control swelling and help your skin heal properly. You should also avoid strenuous activities for four to six weeks as you recover from surgery.
5 Recovery Tips for a Successful Tummy Tuck
Before to follow your doctor’s recommendations for after your tummy tuck. Here are five tips to help ensure a successful recovery:
- Get plenty of rest
- Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting
- Take pain medications as prescribed
- Wear your compression garment
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for wound care.
A tummy tuck can be a great way to address excess fat and skin in the abdominal area, giving you the firmer, flatter stomach that you desire. It’s important to remember that while abdominoplasty can give you dramatic results, it’s not a substitute for proper diet and exercise. Be sure to discuss all of your expectations with your surgeon before undergoing surgery, so you can have realistic expectations about the outcome. With the right precautions, you can enjoy your new look and flaunt your toned silhouette with confidence.