Tummy Tuck: Learn What To Expect Before And During The Procedure

A tummy tuck is also called an abdominoplasty, a procedure in which excess abdominal skin and fat is removed. Surgery can also restore abdominal muscles that have weakened or separated, which often happens during pregnancy, leaving you with a flat and well-toned stomach. Having excess fat around your middle is often genetic, but it can also result from significant weight loss.

The ideal candidate is physically healthy with a stable weight, and should also be a nonsmoker. If you are still in the process of losing a significant amount of weight or if you are contemplating getting pregnant in the future, you should postpone surgery because the long-term results will be less than satisfactory. You also need to have a realistic expectation of what the surgery will and will not do for you. For instance, it will not result in weight loss or remove stretch marks, although there may be some reduction in their severity since some of the tissue will be removed or tucked under.

Once you have decided which plastic surgeon you want to perform this, you will undergo a consultation in the office along with a complete history and physical examination to determine if surgery is right for you. The operation will be fully discussed as well as the risks and complications and the expected outcome. Photographs will be taken to document your preoperative and postoperative condition, and if you are a smoker, you will be advised to stop several weeks before, as it interferes with the healing process. Your medications may also be adjusted due to bleeding concerns. The risks and possible complications of the operation will be explained, which tend to include bleeding, scarring, infection, anesthesia problems, and blood clots.

The cost of a tummy tuck varies from region to region, but the average is about $5,000. Unfortunately, since it is considered an elective procedure, insurance will not typically cover it. However, if you have been diagnosed with an abdominal hernia, which may be responsible for your abdominal muscles separating, your insurance company may pick up a portion of the cost. You will need to discuss this with your provider before scheduling the surgery, which your doctor's office can help you with.

Your surgeon has several different options as far as surgical approaches and techniques, meaning the type and design of the incision itself. For instance, some surgeons prefer to avoid making an incision in the navel area. In fact, if the excess skin to be removed is minimal, then a partial abdominoplasty is sometimes all that is needed. Liposuction by itself may also be used to remove any fat or may be used in conjunction with an abdominoplasty. Some surgeons prefer to perform an endoscopic abdominoplasty, which is done by using a tiny incision, leaving a minimal scar.

Whatever type of tummy tuck your surgeon decides on, the end result should be a more toned and sleek abdominal profile. If you decide to take this path, consult a reputable plastic surgeon in your area for additional information.