Tummy Tuck - 5 Things You Should Know
If you are thinking about undergoing a tummy tuck, there are some things you need to be made aware of to make sure you are fully informed regarding the procedure. This type of plastic surgery is very common and highly effective in flattening and reducing the belly region. Read on for a list of important items to make note of when considering a tummy tuck.
1. Save Your Vacation Time
You will need to take at least two weeks off from work in order to allow sufficient recovery time from this surgery. While most cosmetic surgeries only require one week,
a tummy tuck is far more invasive and extensive, creating a lengthier healing period.
2. It’s Not Just Lipo
Some patients confuse a tummy tuck with general liposuction. In fact, this procedure necessitates an incision from nearly one hipbone to the other. It not only removes excess skin and fat from the area, but the abdominal muscles are actually manipulated by stitching them into a more taut and flattened position. This is the reason that observing proper recovery time is so crucial; you wouldn’t want to reverse the work that has been done by doing too much too soon.
3. Steady Weight Range is Necessary
Most plastic surgeons will not perform this technique on someone who has not maintained their weight for at least six months prior to surgery. They need to know that you can remain at a somewhat steady weight because moderate to high weight gain following surgery will reverse the results and make the procedure all for naught.
4. There Are Alternatives
Mini tummy tucks require a smaller incision and performs the tissue removal and muscle work only in the lower portion of the abdominal area. For patients who have tight abdominal muscles, sometimes liposuction alone can sufficiently sculpt the area and produce the desired results. For bariatric patients or those who have experienced extreme weight loss, a panniculectomy may be used for the purpose of localized tissue removal when there are larger amounts.
5. Results Won’t Reverse
One of the greatest qualities of this technique is that the results don’t reverse, or fade over time like many other cosmetic procedures. As long as the patient avoids notable weight gain and maintains an effective diet and exercise program, the results of the procedure will remain.
Contact your local plastic surgeon or conduct an online search for additional information on this and other cosmetic procedures.
