A well-toned abdomen is something just about everyone strives for through exercise and a healthy diet. Sometimes, however, even leading the healthiest, fittest lifestyle leaves us falling short of our goal. If you want toned, flat abs and can’t seem to get rid of excess skin on your own, a tummy tuck might be exactly what you are looking for. To learn more about a tummy tuck, contact Dr. Moein today.
Surgery seems very intimidating to many people, and we understand! If you are new to cosmetic surgery and are unsure what you can expect, a surgical procedure can seem very intimidating, but you shouldn’t be intimidated by a tummy tuck. At Moein Surgical Arts, we prioritize your comfort and safety. Our goal is for you to have a great experience while providing the results you have been dreaming of.
But, first, we want to provide you with information about the tummy tuck procedure to help you decide if this is the right procedure for you.
WHAT IS A TUMMY TUCK?
Depending on the degree of change you are seeking, there are two options: a full tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck. If you just want correction in your lower abdomen or a small amount of correction, the mini tummy tuck is likely what you are looking for. A full tummy tuck addresses a larger area and involves removing more tissue.
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure to make the abdomen thinner and firmer. It removes excess fat and skin and often restores weak or separated muscles, creating a firm and smooth abdominal profile.
Something to keep in mind, however, is that a tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or exercise. A tummy tuck is supplemental to exercise and a healthy diet, and the positive outcomes of this procedure can be undone by fluctuations in your weight.
HOW DOES A TUMMY TUCK WORK?
A full tummy tuck takes roughly two to five hours to perform, beginning with a horizontal incision from one hip bone to the other. The incision lies between the pubic hairline and the bellybutton. In cases where removal of tissue from the upper abdomen is necessary, a second incision will be made.
There are several surgical methods employed during a full tummy tuck. Liposuction of underlying is performed using a cannula and medical suction. Then, the rejoining and tightening of displaced abdominal muscles in the abdominal wall is performed with internal sutures.
After the underlying tissues have been removed, excess skin is removed and the belly button is restored. At the end of the procedure, stitches, clips and other closures are used to seal the incision.
For a mini tummy tuck, only one to two hours are needed to perform and it involves a shorter horizontal incision and no second incision. This procedure involves removal of skin and fat and the tightening of ab muscle tissues, but the belly button isn’t typically affected.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE PROCEDURE?
After your tummy tuck, you will wear a compression garment to reduce swelling. You should expect swelling and bruising after your surgery, as those side effects are very common, and using ice and wearing the compression garment are great ways to speed up our healing process. Your stitches will be removed at a follow-up visit after a bit of recovery.
The recovery of a mini tummy tuck is typically one to three weeks (where you will need to take off of work) while the full tummy tuck requires two to four weeks off of work. You will not be advised to engage in strenuous physical activity for at least one month after your surgery.
TUMMY TUCK
If you’d like to learn more about a tummy tuck, contact our office and arrange a consultation! We will be able to answer all of your questions and design the perfect treatment plan for you.