Physical appearance is one measure of our health and vitality. A flat stomach is one of the most desired attributes. Unfortunately for some, no diet or exercise can reduce sagging or excess skin and bulge of the abdomen. Sometimes events such as pregnancy or weight gain combined with weight loss cause the skin and sometimes the underlying muscles to stretch to an extent that they never return to their original shape. Abdominoplasty, also called tummy tuck, can restructure the stomach area by decreasing the excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles.
How Is The Tummy Tuck Procedure Performed?
An incision in the shape of a "W" is made horizontally along the lower abdomen. The length of the scar depends on how much excess skin needs to be removed. Through this incision, excess fat is removed and overstretched tissue holding the muscles in place are tightened. Excess skin is then removed. In some cases with a large amount of excess skin, an incision around the navel will be made to allow the maximum of skin to be removed. In other cases, a "mini" Abdominoplasty can be performed with a smaller incision and a shorter recovery period. When possible, the lower abdominal incision can be designed so that bathing suit bottoms conceal it. Your surgeon may also be able to incorporate previous scars, like those from a caesarean, into this new incision. Your personal consultation with your surgeon will provide you with all the details of the Abdominoplasty procedure and its options.
What Will I Look And Feel Like Afterward?
Because every individual patient varies in degree of bruising and healing, there is no exact answer. However, we can offer a general outline of expectations:
In the first day or two, you may be encouraged to get up and move around to initiate the healing process. Standing up straight is not recommended but you will be able to walk. Any quick movement or heavy lifting must be avoided for 4-6 weeks. Your surgeon will be able to prescribe medication to control any discomfort. You will notice some swelling and bruising.
During the first 5-10 days, bruising and swelling will reach its highest point and begin to subside. Within 7-10 days stitches and drainage tubes may be removed.
After a couple of weeks, you will increase your activity. However, strenuous activities are prohibited for at least six weeks. You will experience a significant reduction in bruising and swelling, and your results will begin to take shape.
After several months, you will resume more vigorous activities and exercise. The incision will begin to lighten and fade.
Will I Have To Be In The Hospital?
Sometimes the procedure is done in the hospital with a very short stay, usually one day, not more than two. Depending on the complexity of the surgery, the abdominoplasty procedure may be done on an outpatient basis in an outpatient surgery center or your physician's own accredited, office-based surgical suite. The anesthesia for this surgery is most commonly general anesthesia, which allows you to "sleep" during the procedure. Again, depending on the complexity of the surgery and other personal factors, your surgeon may decide that local anesthesia with intravenous sedation might be the best choice for you.
Are There Other Alternatives To Abdominoplasty?
The only other alternative is Liposuction, which can only remove excess fat. You may be a good candidate for a Liposuction procedure if your skin still has good elasticity and your abdominal muscles have satisfactory tone, or if you are planning a future pregnancy. Your surgeon will evaluate this option during your consultation.
What Kind Of Follow Up Care Will I Need?
You will return to your surgeon's office for a postoperative follow-up within the first two weeks after surgery and then periodically to monitor your progress over the next month or so. It is very important to attend these visits to be certain you are caring for the incision area properly and avoiding sun exposure and other harmful activities.
Just like countless men and women who have had this procedure, you will be thrilled with your new profile and look as fit as you feel!
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