Abdominoplasty Facts

The abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a fantastic cosmetic enhancement that restores the waistline of many who have lost the hope of ever flattening their abdominal area. This article will outline some main items of interest regarding the tummy tuck.

1. It’s not just liposuction.

An abdominoplasty entails much more than just sculpting through the use of liposuction, though it’s not out of the question for lipo to sometimes be used. The main portion of the tummy tuck that makes it so effective and transforming is the muscle tightening action the surgeon creates. Muscles that are stretched out and ineffective are pulled and stitched together to result in a flatter, firmer, and tighter abdominal region. The results are dramatic. Excess skin and tissue is also removed in surgery.

2. There are variations.

For patients whose muscles are firm, but their ‘spare tire’ is preventing them from achieving their ideal waistline, the mini tummy tuck is offered. This process is much like the full abdominoplasty, but doesn’t include the muscle manipulation. Instead, liposuction is used to sculpt the area and loose skin and excess tissue is removed to firm the area primarily below the navel.

3. It’s not for everyone.

Patients who haven’t had children or experienced significant weight gain and its subsequent loss may not need a true abdominoplasty. For those whose skin and underlying muscles are generally taut and firm, liposuction alone may be the more fitting option for addressing any stubborn bulging areas in the midsection.

4. Recovery can be lengthy.

A full tummy tuck can take weeks to recover from, and recovery can be uncomfortable and difficult. Anyone who has done extensive abdominal exercises knows how any movement can affect the area when it’s sore. Proper care must be taken to ensure your surgeon’s recovery plan is strictly adhered to. For mini tummy tucks, recovery isn’t as long or as tough, primarily since the muscles weren’t involved.

5. Results can reverse.

Due to the fact that tummy tuck results can reverse, it’s important to take your lifestyle into consideration prior to committing to surgery. If you tend to fluctuate in your weight any notable amount, you’ll need to become more diligent in maintaining a steady and stable weight range. Also, it’s strongly advised to wait until you’re done having children to have a tummy tuck. But by following the above guidelines, your results can remain.

For additional information on an abdominoplasty, contact your plastic surgeon today and schedule a consultation.