Abdominoplasty surgery is commonly called a tummy tuck. The procedure makes your abdomen slim and firm, without crunches. The surgeon removes the excess fat and skin from your lower abdomen to tighten the muscles in the abdominal wall. Sudden weight loss after pregnancy or just by losing huge amounts of weight quickly with diet leaves a lot of excess skin on your abdomen.
A tummy tuck is the perfect solution for people experiencing a saggy abdomen from aging or for women that have had several pregnancies.
Preparing for a Tummy Tuck
In most cases the procedure is considered an outpatient operation, but sometimes an overnight stay may be required. It can be performed with simple local anesthesia, however some patients may require general anesthesia. This depends on how extensive the correction will be. Obviously, the more skin you want removed, the more complicated the procedure will be, maybe making it necessary for general anesthesia.
Before the cutting begins, the surgeon will carefully mark the area to be removed. Then, an incision is made at the bikini line. The skin marked for removal is pulled in an inward and down direction. This section, along with the underlying fat tissue is then removed. Next the muscles are tightened as needed.
Your plastic surgeon will then pull the skin together and suture the incision with several layers of stitches. The operation can take several hours, depending on how much skin and fat is to be removed.
After the Operation
After the operation you will not be in much shape for driving, so you should plan on an alternate method of getting home. Either ask a friend, take a cab or public transportation. You may also want to have some help around the house for a few days. The first few days will be the worst for pain and swelling. It will be tough for you to get around performing even the most basic tasks.
Most likely your doctor will prescribe some medication to lessen the symptoms. You will need to wear a supportive girdle-type garment to protect your abdomen while you heal. This will also help reduce the swelling.
Depending the nature of your job, you should be able to return to work within a few weeks. The swelling and bruising will subside gradually over time. Your doctor will give you strict instructions on diet, exercise and general care prior to the operation. He will also give you guidance during your recovery, if needed.
Due to the swelling, the results of your tummy tuck will not be seen right away. It can take up to two months to see the fabulously flat belly you have been dreaming about. And the scar will be barely noticeable, since the actual incision is quite small.
Although a tummy tuck is the perfect solution for many people, do not think it is a substitute for a healthy weight loss program or regular exercise. Make sure all of your questions are thoroughly answered before making a final decision. You and your doctor can decide if a tummy tuck is right for you.