A Guide to Tummy Tuck Surgery
By definition, tummy tuck surgery is a plastic surgical procedure that flattens the abdomen. This is done by having the excess skin, as well as the fat, removed. This also helps to tighten the muscles. Tummy tuck surgery is also called abdominoplasty.
Who Qualifies for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
The following are the ideal candidates for this procedure:
- Obese people whose skins have lost elasticity.
- Any person who is not smoking is in good physical condition. Such a person is likely to have layers of fat as well as loose skin that may not respond well to either diet or exercise.
- Women who have had children. Their skin, as well as muscles, could have stretched when they were pregnant. Doctors advise that in case a woman is planning to sire more children, then she should not undergo tummy tuck surgery. Secondly, if a person has a weight loss plan that will result in shedding a significant amount of fats, then a tummy tuck surgery will have to wait.
Also, note that a partial abdominoplasty is good for patients who have fat located in their lower abdomen. It is not an invasive procedure because shorter incisions are made.
How Is Tummy Tuck Surgery Done?
During this procedure, general anesthesia is used. The plastic surgeon will make two incisions; from one hipbone across to the other. The incision has to be as close to the pubic area as possible. Another incision will be made around the navel area.
The fold of skin is then separated from the muscles around the abdomen. These abdominal muscles are drawn together, and stitching is done to make the waist narrow and the abdomen firm.
The flaps of skin that had been separated are then pulled over the tightened muscles. Any skin that remains is removed. To avoid the navel being in an unnatural position, it is carefully reattached. The incisions are then closed, and a sterile dressing applied over the wound.
How Long Will the Recovery Take?
After the surgery, the plastic surgeon will insert a tube beneath the skin. This will help in draining the excess fluid from the area that was operated on. During the recovery period, it is a must for the compression clothing to be worn. Recovery will generally be between 2 weeks and three months. For people who are still working, they should seek the permission of their doctors to return to work. Secondly, patients are advised against engaging in activities that are strenuous such as weight lifting.
Is Tummy Tuck Surgery Risky?
Surgery carries a lot of risks. The risks associated with abdominoplasty are: the body may become asymmetrical, scarred, a lot of loose skin, possibility of the skin numbing and losing sensation and below par results. If the scars are noticeable, more surgery may be required.
Finally, after a tummy tuck surgery, an abdominal area that is flatter and toned is noticeable. The patient is, however, advised to maintain their weight by checking their diet and exercising regularly.…