What Is A Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery performed to remove excess skin and fat in the abdomen while restoring separated abdominal muscles and improving the overall aesthetics of the center of the abdomen. In a tummy tuck, excess skin is removed from the abdominal area. The underlying muscles and connective tissues are sutured and the skin is then repositioned to create a flatter, more toned appearance.
Individuals with excess skin around the belly or with a weak abdominal wall often choose to have a tummy tuck. Liposuction can resolve stubborn fat in the stomach area, but it cannot address sagging skin or loose abdominal muscles.
Why Choose A Tummy Tuck?
Individuals with poor skin elasticity and excess skin due to weight loss often opt for the tummy tuck procedure. Connective tissues and abdominal muscles, which run from the ribs to the pubic area, can get stretched and separate after pregnancy or significant weight loss.
The tummy tuck surgery removes this loose skin and fat and tightens weak muscle tissue in the abdominal area. Individuals with stretch marks and excess skin especially in the lower belly often see significant improvement after having a tummy tuck procedure. However, if stretch marks are present on the upper abdomen above the belly button, they will still be visible after having a tummy tuck.
Many women undergo abdominoplasty as part of a “mommy makeover.” Often, women find their overall self-confidence drops after childbirth due to excess tissue around the midsection and lower belly from the significant weight gain and loss that occurs during pregnancy. A tummy tuck can boost a woman’s self-image and help her regain the confidence she had before having children. Patients routinely combine tummy tucks with other body contouring surgeries, such as a breast lift, for a comprehensive makeover.
Benefits Of A Tummy Tuck:
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A smooth, tight abdominal area
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Increased self-esteem
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Relief from back pain
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Better posture
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Being able to take part in different activities and exercises
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Safety from the risk of any possible secondary skin infection or rash within the folds of your skin.
Good Candidates For Tummy Tuck Surgery:
Good candidates for a tummy tuck are healthy individuals who have excess loose skin around the abdomen. This often occurs after significant weight loss. Men and women alike can be good candidates for the tummy tuck procedure.
Women who have had children and are unable to shed excess skin around their waist and lower abdomen are often great candidates for a tummy tuck. These women often have an abdominal pannus, which is soft loose skin that hangs down towards the pubic area and separation at the abdominal muscles in the center area.
A tummy tuck may be a good option if you have:
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Excess skin around the belly button region
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Weak lower abdominal wall
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Liposuction has not been effective in improving signs of loose skin on the abdomen
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Visible scarring from a previous C-section
Individuals who plan to lose a lot more weight, are planning to become pregnant, active smoker or have a severe chronic illness such as diabetes, IBS, or heart disease may not be good candidates for a tummy tuck.
Recovery After Tummy Tuck Surgery:
There may be some discomfort associated with a tummy tuck; however, this will be well managed with pain medication during the first one to two weeks. Special nerve blocking techniques may also be utilized to minimize postoperative discomfort. Surgical drains will be placed at the time of surgery and will be removed within one to two weeks. Typically, routine activity can resume within one to two weeks; however, rigorous activity should be avoided for up to 6 weeks. You will be asked to wear an abdominal binder for approximately six weeks after surgery to optimize your results. Restrictions and limitations will be fully detailed at your appointment.
