A flat, taut belly is a much-desired attribute amongst many people, although it is not as common. People resort to strict diet regimes and relentless workout regimes, but sometimes they just don’t seem to work. During such times, a tummy tuck procedure can help in getting rid of the stubborn belly fat. A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is done to remove the fat deposits in the abdominal area, to contour the belly into the desired shape, resulting in a firmer, flatter tummy. Some people choose getting a liposuction done after a tummy tuck surgery, for better results. Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Before and After Photos
Preparing for a tummy tuck
A tummy tuck surgery is suitable for individuals who have excess loose skin protruding or sagging in the abdominal area due to pregnancy, weight changes, aging, heredity or a previous surgery. The plastic surgeon may send you over to get medical tests done before the surgery. He may alter your medications or prescribe certain other medications, to prepare you for the surgery. You will be asked to stop smoking days or weeks before the surgery. You may be advised to stop taking, herbal supplements and anti-inflammatory medicines before the surgery, to prevent increased bleeding. You can ask your surgeon to show you some tummy tuck before and after photos too.
The surgery can either involve a complete abdominoplasty or a mini abdominoplasty. The cosmetic surgeon administers general anesthesia or intravenous sedation before the surgery. In a complete abdominoplasty, the cosmetic surgeon makes incisions from one hipbone to the other, and then shapes the tissue and skin as required. He tightens the abdominal wall muscles during the surgery. The plastic surgeon may even reposition the belly button during surgery, and place drainage tubes in the operated area. Mini or partial abdominoplasty is suitable for individuals with flab under the navel region. This procedure is not complex and can take about two hours. In most cases, the belly button is not moved.
Post-surgery recovery
In both tummy tuck procedures, the operated area is stitched with sutures and covered with bandages, after surgery. The bandage is elastic and firm in nature and aids faster healing. Any swelling that appears in the operated area is minimized by the compression garment. The drainage tube placed in the abdominal area collects excess fluid or blood which accumulates in the area. It should be removed within a few days following the surgery.
You will have to restrain yourself from strenuous physical activities for nearly six weeks following surgery. The surgeon may prescribe oral or topical medications to improve the healing process. You may have to take a month off from work. Make sure you ask your surgeon about how to treat the surgical drain pipes as well as the operated area after surgery, and arrange for a follow-up visit. The surgery will result in a firmer and flatter belly, which matches your body weight and type. A healthy diet and regular exercise can help in maintaining the results of the surgery in the far future as well, says Dr. Paul McCluskey, a well-known plastic surgeon in Atlanta, GA.
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