Abdominoplasty - Getting the Results You Want

In order to obtain a successful abdominplasty – commonly referred to as a "tummy tuck" – a cosmetic surgeon must tailor each procedure involved to the needs of the individual patient. Most plastic surgeons will have several consultations with the patient before having the surgery. These visits between the doctor and the patient are helpful because the patient can tell the doctor what desired results they would like, and the surgeon can determine if their skill can meet the patient's demands. Many times, the patient will have an unrealistic idea of the desired results, and the surgeon can explain to the patient what is possible with the results, and how to achieve with regular diet and exercise, along with the abdominoplasty. 

In a consultation, the doctor can inform the patient of the risks related to their health history. A good cosmetic surgeon will have an extensive portfolio depicting their previous procedures, so that the patient can have an idea of the doctor's skill. An abdominoplasty involves some artistry, especially because the cosmetic surgeon must reposition the belly button and completely reconstruct the patient's stomach. By perusing photos of the plastic surgeon's previous work, the potential patient can competently decide if the doctor's capabilities can adequately meet his or her desires for the operation.

As with other cosmetic surgery operations, there are multiple approaches that a surgeon can use when executing a tummy tuck. For patients with small pockets of excess fat and skin that has maintained its elasticity, a "mini" tummy tuck may be the best solution. This type of operation is ideal for patients who are relatively close to their ideal body weight. Not as invasive as a traditional tummy tuck, the "mini" tummy tuck utilizes smaller incisions when removing fat. Other less invasive cosmetic surgery methods have been combined with this type of tummy tuck in order to eliminate the need for incisions. Consequently, it does not remove or reposition the belly button because the stomach retains its original shape. As outpatient surgery, the "mini" tummy tuck results in a shorter recovery period. 

Contrasting the "mini" variation, the traditional tummy tuck involves a greater degree of proper surgical work in order to achieve major reconstruction of the abdominal region. A traditional abdominoplasty uses liposuction methods to remove fat and therefore causes more bruising. Additionally, the surgeon will surgically remove excess skin, which can make for a painful recovery in which the patient will have limited movement. Though more invasive, a traditional abdominoplasty is intended for healthy patients that are near their ideal body weights, but would like to tighten up their abdomen through surgical means. The results of an abdominoplasty are semi-permanent, and will last longer if the patient adheres to a healthy diet and exercise regimen both before and after surgery. 

Make no mistake: an abdominoplasty is no replacement for proper dieting and maintenance of a healthy body. Even after surgery, patients must exercise at least three times per week while maintaining a healthy diet. By understanding the risks and consulting with several surgeons with different skill levels, you will be able to obtain the most desired results. Many patients will have an unrealistic idea of their results, and knowing what to expect can have an impact on recovery.