Abdominoplasty: The Tummy Tuck
If you can’t kick those tough spots on your lower abs and sides, you may be a candidate for an abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck.
An abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the middle and lower abdomen. It should be noted that it is not the same as liposuction, which is the removal of fat deposits. The complexity of your surgery will determine whether your is an in-patient or out-patient procedure.
Candidates for Abdominoplasty
Candidates who find tummy tucks most successful are often people who diet and exercise regularly but find that these factors do not aid in the reduction of loose or sagging skin. Many people who have an abdominoplasty performed are mothers who have experienced multiple pregnancies or people who were obese but have lost a substantial amount of weight.
A tummy tuck may not be an option for you if you plan to have more children, or if you plan to lose more weight. Doing either of these could ruin the results of a tummy tuck performed beforehand.
How the Abdominoplasty is Performed
There are two types of abdominoplasties. For both types, patients must undergo anesthesia, so it is important that a designated driver be present to take you home afterward. The two types of procedures are based upon the size of the incision needed to be made for the patient’s surgery:
- Complete abdominoplasty requires an incision below your navel, near your pubic area, that extends from hip to hip. Because this version is more complex, your belly button will be moved so that it fits your new abdomen.
- Mini-abdominoplasty requires small incisions right above your pubic area. This form of abdominoplasty is for less severe cases and the scars left are smaller for the patient.
After incisions are made, excess skin is removed and then the muscles in your abdomen will be tightened to create a firmer and thinner looking middle section.
Recovery times vary between individuals and can range from one to four weeks. Patients should plan to take time off from work, avoid heavy lifting, and wear loose, comfortable clothing during recovery.
Contact Ederra Bella
If sit-ups and exercise aren’t giving you the results you need, Ederra Bella in Johns Creek may have the solution for you. To receive more information about this procedure schedule a consultation with Dr. Myla at Ederra Bella using our online contact form, or call the office at (678) 325-0006.
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