A tummy tuck, clinically known as abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure involving the removal of loose skin, tightening of abdominal muscles and elimination of stubborn fat deposits. It generally makes the midsection slimmer and appear more youthful. This procedure can be customized to meet the unique goals and needs of each patient. Different types of tummy tucks exist, each of which targets specific issues and specific areas of the body. The procedure can also be combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures such as a liposuction.
A tummy tuck surgery is made up of various stages and could take several hours depending on the procedure being performed. It begins with local or general anesthesia. Most surgeons prefer general anesthesia since the patient will be completely relaxed. This allows the surgeon to work fast and with ease. Depending on the procedure, the number of incisions made will vary. Most tummy tucks involve naval reattachment and sculpting. Additionally, skin removal and tightening of abdominal muscles, which is what results in a slimmer midsection, is done. Stretch marks can also be eliminated during skin removal. This is, however, dependent on the site of the incision. Once all these steps are done, the incision is sutured closed. Pre and post-operative care is essential for a successful tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck can result in significant weight loss, which is the expectation of most people who undergo the procedure. This may, however, be contrary to their expectations because a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. It is a body contouring procedure aimed at repairing stretched out abdominal muscles and excess skin and fat removal. The aim of the surgery is definitely not to reduce one’s weight. For most people, the weight lost from a tummy tuck is in fact not much. Many patients lose anywhere between one and two pounds on average. Patients should, however, not be discouraged since they will experience a drastic loss in dress size because the surgery gets rid of excess fat and skin around the stomach area while tightening abdominal muscles.
A tummy tuck is a major surgery unlike what most people think. It will, therefore, send you home with swollen areas where incisions were made. A complete tummy tuck takes several hours and helps you get your groove and confidence back. Not only is it great for aesthetic purposes, it also has many health benefits. As such, it can be used to reduce stress urinary incontinence, improve abdominal tone and posture, correct ventral hernia and to get rid of excess skin and stretch marks.
Many get confused and worry about whether to go for a tummy tuck or not. Additionally, given that there are different types of tummy tucks, many get confused as to which procedure would be ideal for them and which one would help them meet their needs and goals. You should carefully consider all the tummy tuck options and consult with your surgeon on which procedure will be best for you. Your options for a tummy tuck are a traditional tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, endoscopic tummy tuck, extended tummy tuck and a circumferential tummy tuck. A reputable plastic surgeon should help you answer all these questions.
A tummy tuck procedure can be combined with other procedures such as a liposuction or hernia repair. Many prefer to combine several procedures together to save on the recovery period. A tummy tuck procedure is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is not covered by most insurance companies. As a result, you have to pay for the procedure with your own pocket. If you have been debating if you should go for that tummy tuck, it is time to make that decision given that the procedure is greatly beneficial.
Dr. Gregory H. Croll is the owner of his own practice, and the leading doctor for tummy tucks in Columbia, MO.