Tummy Tuck
Even with strict diet and exercise, stubborn fat deposits and excess skin can be present in the abdomen for many reasons. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can help tighten and restore the abdominal area which can be subject to sagging or protrusion over time. This procedure can be a great way to sculpt a fit and contoured figure when it seems like nothing else works.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck corrects fat deposits and excess skin that many people carry around their abdominal area, even if they are at a healthy weight. Due to many factors like age or genetics, this fat can be especially difficult to remove because of the way the body stores fat. A tummy tuck can also be used to strengthen muscles that may have separated or become weak due to things like pregnancy or weight fluctuation.
Who should consider a Tummy Tuck?
Individuals who might consider a tummy tuck are those who are unhappy with the way their abdominal area looks and are at— and will remain at— a stable weight. While a tummy tuck’s results can last for many years, further weight gain or pregnancy can disrupt the results and require another procedure. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure and should not be considered such.
What is the Tummy Tuck procedure like?
After anesthesia is administered, a horizontal incision is made between the pubic hairline and the belly button. The abdominal skin is lifted and the underlying muscles are strengthened and repaired with sutures, and any excess fat is removed or repositioned. The loose abdominal skin is pulled down toward the pubic area and any extra skin is trimmed away before it’s sutured back together. A new opening for the belly button is created as well. The severity of the tummy tuck can be determined by how much skin and fat needs to be removed— smaller procedures can often be called a ‘mini’ tummy tuck.
Results and recovery
An involved and careful recovery is necessary for best results after a tummy tuck. Compression garments and bandages might be used immediately after in order to mitigate swelling and support the newly-structured muscles. Drains may also be placed to collect any fluid that might build up under the skin, and these may need to be cared for. Pain medications might be administered, and you may be unable to stand fully upright for a week or two, or until healing is complete. It’s important to follow any instructions given in order to ensure best results.
If you have excess skin on your stomach that you’d like to get rid of, consider a tummy tuck and contact our office to schedule a consultation.