Also known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck surgically tightens abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat. The excess skin and fat may be a result of multiple pregnancies, previous surgeries, aging, or massive weight loss. A tummy tuck surgically addresses the problem areas resistant to diet and exercise and leaves patients with a flat, firm abdomen and increased self-confidence.
Patients considering tummy tuck surgery are close to, or at, their ideal weight and are in good health, with excess skin and/or weakened muscles on their abdomen. Women considering this procedure should be finished having children, as pregnancy and childbirth can reverse its results. Patients must be considering tummy tuck surgery for personal reasons and need to have realistic expectations about the procedure. Patients will need to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine whether a tummy tuck is right for them.
During a tummy tuck consultation, you will undergo a physical examination and your medical history will be reviewed. It is important to mention all prescription and over-the-counter medications you are taking, as some may need to be stopped before surgery. In addition, you should disclose prior surgeries, and medical problems for which you are treated. There are different types of abdominoplasty, and your Plastic Surgeon will discuss with you which type of procedure will help you obtain your goal results. Your plastic surgeon will explain the tummy tuck procedure in great detail and answer any questions you may have.
Tummy tuck surgery may take as long as five hours and is performed using general anesthesia. After the anesthetic has taken effect, a horizontal incision is made along the pubic area. The abdominal muscles are then relocated and tightened, extra skin is cut off and remaining skin is stretched over the abdomen. The belly button is often repositioned as well. Depending, liposuction may be performed as well. At the end of the procedure, drainage tubes may be placed, and dressings and garments will be applied.
Some patients return home the same day as their tummy tuck, while others return home the next day. For the first few days after surgery, you will experience pain, swelling and soreness, which can managed with prescription medications. In most cases you can shower two days after the procedure. For the first week after tummy tuck surgery, you will need to refrain from standing up straight. Scarring at the incision site may take up to nine months to heal; however, most undergarments should sufficiently cover the scar. You will receive specific instructions about when regular activities can be safely resumed from your Plastic Surgeon.
All surgical procedures carry a risk of complications. Although they rarely occur, risks associated with tummy tuck surgery may include infection, poor wound healing, seromas (fluid collections), bleeding, complications from the anesthesia, or pulmonary embolism. To minimize the occurrence of complications, always choose a board-certified plastic surgeon for your procedure.
To learn more about tummy tuck, contact us today to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeon. Our practice serves Long Island, Queens, New York City, Bergen County, and all surrounding areas.
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