Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is one of the most rewarding and beneficial cosmetic procedures available. It offers significant and immediate results in one of the areas that’s hard to keep trim, particularly in women who have had children or people who tend to store their fat in this region. If you are considering having a tummy tuck done, it’s important to know as much as you can about the procedure so that you can make an informed decision.
Let’s take a look at five important things to know about tummy tucks.
1. Tummy tucks treat a variety of cosmetic concerns.
Tummy tucks don’t just make the stomach flatter. The surgery is designed to improve the appearance of the lower stomach region by trimming excess skin and lax abdominal muscles. The result is a trimmer, leaner stomach that will make it easier to achieve better muscle tone. In some instances, a tummy tuck can also remove stubborn deposits of fat around the abdomen.
2. Tummy tucks typically take two to four hours to complete.
A tummy tuck is a surgery that can take up to four hours depending on how much work you’re having done. The procedure is customized to meet your unique goals, but in general, you can expect a tightening of the abdominal muscles, the removal of excess skin and the removal of fat. During a full tummy tuck, an incision will be made on the lower abdomen from hip to hip. With a mini tummy tuck, the incision is typically shorter.
3. A mini tummy tuck is an alternative to a full tummy tuck.
Both a full and mini tummy tuck are designed to tighten the abdominal muscles and remove excess skin, but there are differences between the two. With a full tummy tuck, areas above and below the belly button are improved. A mini tummy tuck, on the other hand, focuses on the area below the belly button. Talk to your surgeon to determine which procedure is best for you.
4. A full recovery takes six to eight weeks.
Drain tubes need to be left in for one week following surgery. During this time, you may experience some bruising or swelling, but these symptoms greatly improve within a few weeks. You should be able to return to normal activities within a week or two, and this includes working. However, heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided for six to eight weeks.
5. Scars from a tummy tuck will be barely noticeable.
Most patients worry about visible scars following a tummy tuck. You want to be able to off your new tummy after all! The incisions made will be very low on the stomach – near the pelvic region – so they can be easily covered with the right clothes. For instance, bathing suits and underwear hide most scars so you can still show off your flat tummy. Plus, scars fade over time.
We hope that this information has helped you better understand what a tummy tuck procedure entails and how it can benefit you. For more information about this procedure, schedule a consultation with Berlet Plastic Surgery.