What to Know Before Your Tummy Tuck Surgery

For people attempting to achieve a trimmer, more shapely body contour, there is perhaps no area more frustrating to rejuvenate than the abdomen. Even for those who prioritize eating right and working out regularly, it can be nearly impossible to flatten the appearance of your belly with diet and exercise alone. That’s because in many cases, it is actually stretched, excess skin and not fat that is causing this. This is why tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, has remained so in-demand with men and women for so long.

A tummy tuck is designed to help trim the midsection and waistline by removing excess skin and repairing damaged or weakened abdominal muscles. In order to know for sure if a tummy tuck is the right procedure to help them achieve their specific aesthetic goal, I like to assist prospective patients by outlining a few basic things they should know before undergoing this procedure. Here are a few things everyone should know before considering tummy tuck surgery:

Aesthetic Effects of a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is known as an excellent way to achieve a flatter, more-toned abdomen. It is commonly recommended to patients who experience excess skin around their belly that results from pregnancy, significant weight loss, or natural skin laxity over time. Additionally, a tummy tuck can help treat muscle separation in the abdomen that can lead to the appearance of a belly “pooch”. For patients who have their procedure performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, the results of a tummy tuck are intended to be long-lasting.

There are Different Types of Tummy Tucks

Like so many other cosmetic surgery procedures, a tummy tuck is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. I perform three different varieties of tummy tucks that each provide their own unique benefits to patients. Depending on the patient’s specific needs and preferences, I may recommend a standard tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck, or an extended tummy tuck. In some cases, I may also suggest combining a tummy tuck with liposuction to remove stubborn, excess fat from the abdomen and enhance the contours around the waist.

Medical Effects of a Tummy Tuck

In addition to improving the appearance of a person’s abdomen, a tummy tuck can provide medical benefits as well. A tummy tuck can repair the abdominal wall, which can help treat and even prevent future hernias. Many patients experience improved posture as a result of tightening weakened muscles in the abdomen. In some cases, tummy tucks have also been used to treat the symptoms of stress urinary incontinence.

Recovery After a Tummy Tuck

Recovery after a tummy tuck can last anywhere between two weeks and a month, though this will vary from patient to patient. It is common to use a temporary tube called a drain to help handle excess fluid from building up in the surgical site. I recommend patients wear a compression garment during the recovery to reduce post-surgical swelling and expedite the healing process. It’s important to avoid strenuous physical activity and any heavy lifting in the first two weeks of recovery.

As the old adage goes, knowledge is power. Hopefully knowing more about the procedure can help prospective tummy tuck patients make an informed and educated decision when considering all of their potential options. For more information on tummy tuck surgery or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook and Twitter for additional plastic surgery tips, news, videos, and more.