Abdominoplasty -- Tips for a Tummy Tuck

An abdominoplasty is another name for a tummy tuck. The procedure is used to remove extra skin and fat from a person's body. It can assist with restoring the resiliency of muscles that are weak or separated as well. A person who has a protruding stomach can have a smoother, flatter stomach upon receiving this procedure. If the belly sticks out quite a bit, you can see a huge difference in the results upon receiving this procedure. Doctors do not suggest that you merely have a tummy tuck instead of changing your diet and exercises. Although people often hope that the procedure will remove unsightly stretch marks, it effectively reduces the skin and the fat in your stomach area. It might not eliminate the stretch marks in this area.

You should expect to have incisions below your belly button during an abdominoplasty procedure. Sometimes the incisions are placed low enough so that the area can be covered with a bikini. The marks from the procedure can lighten over time. You can also ask your doctor about other topical products that you can place on the area to help lighten the marks. Ask your doctor to check the ingredients of any over-the-counter products that you decide to try. Some of the products might contain harmful ingredients, and your doctor can guide you in finding the right product for you.

During your consultation with your doctor, you should discuss your expectations. Your doctor will want to make sure that you have healthy expectations regarding the procedure. He or she will also want to have a clear idea of your desires for the surgery to make sure that you get the results that you want. The doctor will examine the area and tell you how the procedure will work. Do not forget to ask the doctor the length of the recovery period and how long the entire procedure will take. Most people would like to know about options for anesthesia. Your doctor will make you as comfortable as possible, but it is normal to know what you can expect. As you get closer to the date of your procedure, do not forget to ask the doctor about your postoperative care. You need to make sure that you have on hand any recommended products. For example, you might need to wear a support garment.

You also need to be sure that you will have any prescriptions that you might need after the procedure.
You will probably have a friend or family member drive you home after your procedure. That person might receive instructions to care for your dressings if you desire. You will have to give the doctor permission to give this person information regarding your care. You should also ask to receive the instructions yourself before the procedure, so you will feel confident that you have all of the information that you need. Immediately after the procedure, you will feel groggy and might not remember some details associated with the abdominoplasty surgery. You will need some time to rest before you are able to go home.