Tummy tuck

Even with proper diet and regular exercise, the abdominal muscles can lose their elasticity after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or simply the passage of time. Tummy tucks, or abdominoplasty, are cosmetic surgeries that tighten abdominal muscles and eliminate excess fat and skin from the stomach area. This gives the impression of a flatter, more toned stomach.

The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck will exhibit one or more of the following conditions or symptoms:

• Excess or sagging abdominal skin
• Absent or compromised abdominal muscles
• Abdominal fat deficiency
• Currently, I am at a healthy weight
• Overall wholesome
• No future pregnancies planned

What to expect before, during, and after a tummy tuck procedure

There are different types of tummy tucks that you and your plastic surgeon can discuss during your first consultation. These include the full tummy tuck and the mini tummy tuck. Most patients want a full tummy tuck, which requires two weeks of downtime. As the emphasis of a partial tuck is on eliminating excess skin rather than fat, a smaller incision is sufficient.

No matter which kind of tummy tuck you get, the incision will be made horizontally from the patient’s navel to the pubic region. After repairing your weakened abdominal muscles and removing any excess fat and skin, your surgeon will close the incision, and you will feel much better.

You will be provided with a list of foods, beverages, and medications to avoid before surgery to ensure a smooth and safe procedure.

You could spend up to 72 hours in the hospital if admitted. During this time, it is common to experience pain and swelling. Although discomfort is inevitable during recovery, it can be controlled by the drugs your surgeon prescribes.

After six weeks, most people can resume their normal activities, though they may have to wear a compression garment for another two to three months. After a few months, the swelling will have gone down, and the scars will be less noticeable. Maintaining your progress through diet and exercise is possible.

If you are interested in learning more about tummy tuck surgery and whether or not you are a candidate, please schedule a consultation with one of our skilled TGS surgeons.