In a major cosmetic procedure such as tummy tuck, a comprehensive pre-op consultation has an important role. The consultation gives the cosmetic surgeon an opportunity to educate the patient about various aspects of tummy tuck.
At the same time, it allows the patient to gain familiarity with the surgeon and their practice, and freely ask questions to address all their concerns and doubts. The surgeon will ideally schedule the consultation well ahead of the surgery to allow for enough preparation time.
Dr. Paul McCluskey is a dedicated plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck and other cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. During the consultation, Dr. McCluskey will determine the patient’s candidacy and make the best possible recommendations about the type of surgical technique to meet the patient’s goals. He provides tummy tuck to patients in Atlanta, GA and communities around this city.
Health Evaluation
One of the primary aspects of the pre-surgical consultation process will be the candidate’s health assessment. Tummy tuck is a major procedure, and the cosmetic surgeon must determine whether the patient is fit enough to undergo the procedure. The patient’s past health records will be reviewed, and in some cases, the surgeon may order a few diagnostic tests as necessary.
The patient should be forthcoming about information related to any previous health concerns or surgeries, including any history of smoking and drinking. The patient will also be required to provide information about the medications, vitamins and herbal supplements that they may be currently using. This will enable the surgeon to anticipate any problems and take counter-steps in advance.
The surgeon will examine the abdominal area to evaluate the skin type, thickness and tissue laxity, including the condition of underlying muscles. Some patients may be required to undergo liposuction along with tummy tuck procedure.
The surgeon will also assess the skin quality, thickness and elasticity, including underlying muscle strength in the abdominal area. In a few cases, additional procedures such as liposuction may be advised along with tummy tuck surgery.
Customized Surgery Plan
The surgeon will try to understand the patient’s specific cosmetic concerns and what about their abdominal appearance may be bothering them. Based on their innate aesthetic needs and goals, the surgeon will prepare a customized tummy tuck surgery plan. The type of surgical technique, the size and location of incisions, and the extent of correction required will be determined in the light of the patient’s goals and their overall anatomy.
A detailed consultation and careful surgical planning will help ensure that the patient’s personal expectations can be met with a less invasive and more targeted tummy tuck procedure. When a surgeon tailors the procedure specifically to meet the patient’s unique needs, they will usually achieve better patient satisfaction rates.
Other Key Tasks
During the consultation, the surgeon may take pictures of the pre-surgery abdominal appearance, inform about alternative treatments and estimated costs, and give detailed instructions for preparation and recovery. Experienced and judicious plastic surgeon Dr. McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, GA and neighborhoods across the horizon for tummy tuck surgery and various other procedures.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: