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tummy tuck

Debunking Common Myths About Tummy Tuck Surgery

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female-tummy-imageWith so much information readily available these days, sometimes it can be hard to know the difference between what is true and what is false. Education is a part of my responsibility as a board-certified plastic surgeon that I take very seriously. Cosmetic surgery procedures like tummy tuck surgery are complex and every patient will have their own unique questions and concerns. That’s why I wanted to take a moment to discuss the tummy tuck and address common myths that persist about the surgery.

Myth #1: My Tummy Tuck Scar Will Stay the Same Forever

This is false. While it’s a fact that post-surgery scarring is unavoidable following a tummy tuck, with time and proper post-surgical care, the color of visible scarring will fade in the years following surgery. For patients who are concerned about potential scarring, it’s important to remember that In many cases when performing a tummy tuck, I am able to make my incision along the bikini line where it can be easily hidden by underwear or a bathing suit.

Myth #2: A Tummy Tuck is a One-Size-Fits-All Procedure

This is definitely false. Like any other cosmetic procedure, I am able to customize a tummy tuck procedure based on the specific needs and preferences of each individual patient. Many patients come into their initial tummy tuck consultation unaware that there are different varieties of tummy tucks including the full, mini, and extended tummy tuck techniques. I make time to discuss all these options during the consultation appointment to ensure each patient receives the care that will be most beneficial for them.

Myth #3: Tummy Tuck Surgery is Only Meant for Women

I understand why some people may think this, as there is a strong association between tummy tuck surgery and women seeking to restore their figure following pregnancy and childbirth. However, men can also benefit greatly from undergoing a tummy tuck. Factors like weight fluctuation and natural aging can lead to stretched, excess skin and damaged muscle around a man’s mid-section. A tummy tuck can help guys remove this excess skin and repair the abdominal wall to help provide a more trim, slender physique.

My goal when debunking these myths is to help prospective tummy tuck patients gain a better understanding of this outstanding procedure and the many benefits that it can provide. If you have any additional questions or concerns, I suggest reaching out to my office to schedule a plastic surgery consultation appointment. For more information on tummy tuck surgery or to schedule a consultation today, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. And follow along with me on Facebook and Twitter for additional plastic surgery tips, news, and more.

What to Expect During Your Mommy Makeover Recovery

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Mommy-Makeover-Plastic-SurgeryIn my many years experience of performing cosmetic surgery procedures, one of the most common sources of uncertainty and anxiety among prospective patients is the post-surgery recovery period. No one wants to deal with an extended period of soreness and bed rest, especially when they could be out showing off their fantastic new plastic surgery results. However, this recovery period is vitally important to achieving and maintaining the best, longest-lasting results.

This is especially true in the case of combination procedures like a mommy makeover. During a mommy makeover, I combine liposuction, a tummy tuck, and a cosmetic breast procedure (breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction) to help my patient achieve comprehensive and outstanding body contouring results. Due to the complex nature of this procedure, patients need to be extra cautious about doing too much too fast that could negatively affect their results.

A woman’s expected recovery period following a mommy makeover can depend on several factors including her body’s natural ability to heal as well as the specific procedures that were included in her surgery. However, some things will be part of the mommy makeover recovery period regardless. For instance, I instruct all mommy makeover patients to wear a compression garment following their surgery to reduce post-surgical swelling and promote good healing. Most patients should expect at least two weeks away from work and other daily activities (including exercise, childcare, etc.) to rest and recover at home. Heavy lifting (including lifting children) should be avoided at this time. I take time during all mommy makeover consultation appointments to clearly explain what each individual patient may experience during her recovery.

It’s important to remember that patience is crucial during your mommy makeover recovery. Patients can’t expect to see their finished results immediately after surgery, or even after their initial recovery period has ended. For some people, it can take weeks to feel fully like yourself again and months before all surgery-related bruising and swelling has faded. It’s important to stay optimistic and maintain a good attitude about your surgery in the meantime. In my experience, the final results you achieve will be more than worth the wait.

A mommy makeover may not be right for everyone, but for women who are good candidates for the procedure, it can be an outstanding way to turn back the clock and achieve a more fit, younger figure. For more information on the mommy makeover or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott, at Atlanta Plastic Surgery today. Don’t forget to follow along with me on Facebook and Twitter for additional plastic surgery tips, news, and much more.

How Much Scarring Will I Have After My Tummy Tuck?

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Considering how popular it is (and has been throughout the years), it’s no wonder why I spend so much time speaking with patients interested in tummy tuck surgery. Every patient I meet with is different and comes to the office with their own unique questions and concerns about this procedure. However, the topic of scarring after a tummy tuck is among the most common topics addressed during pre-surgery consultation appointments.

tummy tuck surgeryThis is perfectly understandable. After all, no one wants a big, unsightly scar ruining the results of their surgery. However, it’s important to remember that there are steps I take during the procedure to reduce the appearance of visible scarring. Tummy tuck incisions are most commonly made from hip bone to hip bone, as well as a small incision around the belly button. This can vary depending on the type of tummy tuck surgery performed. In most cases, I am able to make my incision along the bikini line where it can be easily hidden by underwear or a bathing suit.

The size and color of the scar left after surgery varies from patient to patient depending on several factors. These factors include how much skin and tissue was removed during the procedure, the patient’s skin tone, and how vulnerable they are to scarring. Thankfully, any amount of post-tummy tuck scarring will fade over time with the right care and attention. I would also personally recommend the following tips to help minimize visible scarring:

  • Do not smoke or use other forms of nicotine that can constrict blood vessels and aggravate your scar.
  • Avoid any physical activity or motion that causes you to put additional pressure on your abdomen like bending and stretching.
  • Keep your skin moisturized and use a vitamin E topical that can help aid in the healing process.
  • Avoid direct sunlight after your procedure and make sure your incision area is protected with sunscreen if it is not covered when you are spending time out in the sun.

The best scar-reduction tip I can recommend is speaking about this subject with a board-certified plastic surgeon like myself and following your post-surgery instructions closely. In the long run, the outstanding tummy tuck results you achieve will more than make up for the scar maintenance steps you have to take in the days and weeks following your procedure. For more information or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. Follow me on Facebook and Twitter for additional tips, news, and practice updates.

 

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