Tummy Tuck
What to Consider Before Abdominoplasty Surgery
A tummy tuck, which is medically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the abdominal area through the removal of excess skin and fat. It is a popular choice following pregnancy or significant weight loss, which can both dramatically alter the appearance of this region of the body. The goal of a tummy tuck is to achieve a flatter and more aesthetically pleasing stomach. This procedure improves the contours around your waistline, leaving you with a more toned appearance. Often, this procedure is combined with liposuction or performed as part of a complete “mommy makeover” to contour a larger area of the body.
Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures
Depending on the extent of the surgery, a tummy tuck can take anywhere from two to six hours. There are a few types of tummy tucks, which vary in the amount of tissue the surgeon is able to access during the procedure.
- Traditional Tummy Tuck
- Mini Tummy Tuck
- Extended Tummy Tuck
In a traditional tummy tuck procedure, an incision running from hip to hip allows the surgeon to access all abdominal tissues. This method can result in the most dramatic results, although it is also considered major surgery, with a longer recovery period.
If most of the excess skin and fat you’d like to remove is located under your belly button, consider a partial or “mini” tummy tuck. The mini tummy tuck method requires shorter incision lines, but also limits the amount of tissue that is able to be sculpted by the surgeon. On the other hand, it is also associated with a shorter tummy tuck recovery period.
Depending on your needs, the area treated during abdominoplasty may also extend to the sides (or “love handles”), this is referred to as an extended tummy tuck. In many cases, a tummy tuck may also be combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures, which is often known as a “mommy makeover” because it is intended to reverse some of the physical effects of pregnancy. Tummy tucks involving other procedures, particularly those on the thighs, saddlebags, or love handles, may also be referred to as “lower body lifts.”
Once the incisions have been made, the surgeon gently removes excess skin and fat, tightens the underlying abdominal muscles, and sculpts remaining tissue to the desired appearance. If a significant amount of skin has been removed, the belly button may be repositioned to a more natural location on the abdomen. Finally, sutures hold the incisions closed. With both partial and complete tummy tucks, the incisions are typically located low enough on the body that they can be concealed with clothing.
Are You a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck may be right for you if you have significant excess skin, fat, or other tissues in your abdomen. This is an excellent option for those who have decreased self-confidence due to loose skin or fat deposits around their waistline, although it is also considered major surgery, so you should not make your decision lightly.
Good candidates for abdominoplasty are in good overall health have been at a stable weight, ideally less than 30 pounds overweight, for at least a year. Most patients are between the ages of 25 and 60. While tummy tucks tend to be performed on women, men are also eligible to undergo this procedure.
Tummy tucks are popular among women who have given birth, as pregnancy can alter the appearance of the abdominal region in undesirable ways. Often, a tummy tuck involves the tightening of abdominal muscles which tend to loosen during pregnancy. Because future fluctuations in body weight can further affect the appearance of the abdomen, this procedure may not be a good choice for those who are planning future pregnancies or significant weight loss.
Finding a Tummy Tuck Surgeon
Other than the tummy tuck cost, its important to find a plastic surgeon who is experienced. When choosing a tummy tuck surgeon, look to see if they are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or other established organization such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) or the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASPS). Although being a member in any society or board-certification doesn’t guarantee a successful result most certifying boards like these require extensive medical training, experience, and rigorous surgical education which can ensure that the most appropriate techniques are used for your tummy tuck surgery, while reducing the risk of complications.