Plastic Tummy Tuck Overview
A plastic tummy tuck is an advanced cosmetic surgery procedure that can restore and enhance the outward appearance of your tummy. Also called abdominoplasty, this procedure cuts away the loose, sagging skin around your abdomen and stretches the remaining skin around it. This results in a well-defined, wrinkle-free midriff. In a year, over 80,000 patients, both men and women, undertake this procedure so that they can look fitter and more attractive.
Where it begins
The process begins with consultation where a surgeon or cosmetic physician assesses the condition of the skin, fat, and muscles on your abdomen. Once the surgeon knows what areas he will be working on, the abdominoplasty can begin.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision across the lower abdomen in what most people refer to as the bikini area. For some patients, the endoscopic technique can be used, a method in which the surgeon uses minimal incisions.
In either case, excess skin is cut away and fat deposits are suctioned out via liposuction or tumescent liposuction. Once that is completed any incisions are closed up and the patient is prescribed a period for recovery. Some of the more extensive tummy tucks will require the surgeon to put drainage tubes under your abdominal flap. These are essential in completing the surgery and will be removed in the outpatient office after about ten to fourteen days.
What is a plastic tummy tuck?
Aside from removing the sagging and wrinkles of your stomach skin, a plastic tummy tuck can also benefit your health. This is mostly in relation with the strength of your abdominal muscles. The effects of rapid weight loss due to pregnancy or dieting often weaken your abdomen. Age also does this, although at a much slower rate. An abdominoplasty can tighten your weakened muscles, making your abdomen is less susceptible to pain and injury.
Of course, not all tummy tucks are that drastic. If you only need to get rid of a small amount of sagging skin, you can opt for a mini or partial tummy tuck. This particular procedure involves less surgery, which means faster recovery time, but forgoes the benefit of strengthening the abdominal wall.
What you should expect
As with all surgeries, a plastic tummy tuck involves a certain amount of discomfort. Most patients will have swelling and bruising during the first few days after the operation. The patient must recover for at least ten days in which they cannot work, drive, or engage in any strenuous activities. The patient is also prohibited from exercising for an entire month.
There are some special considerations for a tummy tuck. For example, women are advised to wait until after childbearing age as birthing undoes all the effects of abdominoplasty. Smokers have a higher risk of complications in surgery, so they are advised to quit the habit beforehand.
Considering all that information, a plastic tummy tuck may sound a bit complicated. But you should remember that it’s worth all that trouble as the end result is a flatter, tighter tummy that you’ll just love to flaunt.