Cosmetic Surgery
How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
For those wondering how to have a tummy tuck performed, the answer can be a bit tricky. Tummy tuck, as well as all types of plastic surgery, are surgical procedures that are performed on patients in order to correct a medical condition or medical problem that can be a result of obesity. A tummy tuck is an important and often life-changing procedure and understanding all of the facts will help you fully appreciate why it is so important.
Tummy tuck, just like other types of cosmetic surgeries, is done by plastic surgeons. Tummy tuck, however, is not simply for cosmetic improvement. Tummy tuck can also repair separated or loose abdominal muscles that can relieve abdominal pain from low back strain. Surgical procedures are generally the only method to remove loose sagging skin, fortunately with qualified plastic surgeons performing the procedure, there are no risks of incisions being left open after a tummy tuck.
The surgical procedure itself is fairly simple and relatively inexpensive. The surgeon will insert an incision in the abdomen and lift the skin to allow the surgeon to create a new lower abdomen muscle. There are several different techniques that are used to make this procedure successful, but the general goal is to create a strong, elastic stomach lining. The abdominal muscle is then tightened to provide a firmer, more youthful appearance. Because a tummy tuck removes a large amount of loose skin and tissue, patients can expect to be feeling some soreness and bruising after the procedure.
As previously stated, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure and, as such, it is not an outpatient procedure. Patients will usually have overnight stays in the hospital. Most people who have a tummy tuck have to stay overnight for observation and healing time before being discharged. The most common complications after a tummy tuck are soreness and bruising, but these should subside after a couple of days.
Some patients report pain and discomfort after their abdominoplasty, although this is generally not a cause for concern. The surgeon may recommend that you rest your abdominal muscles for a few days prior to the procedure to allow them to heal, but this is typically not necessary. Patients who experience severe pain or discomfort may need to stop work or stop eating and begin to rest for a few days. After a tummy tuck, the patient will likely experience increased blood circulation and the removal of excess skin. In some patients, swelling or bruising can occur because the incision is left open.
Most patients will begin to feel much better within a week or two, although some may take up to six weeks to completely heal their abdominal muscles. Most patients should be able to return to their normal activities in about three months. Recovery time depends largely on the length of time it takes to heal and how fast the recovery process occurs. For example, patients who experience a quick healing rate may begin to feel their abdominals immediately following the surgery, while other patients may require between two and four months of rest. If you have any questions about how to handle the pain associated with having a tummy tuck, contact your plastic surgeon immediately.
Once healed, a patient will see an immediate difference in their appearance because of the removal of their stomach muscle. Their abdominal skin will appear much tighter and firmer. The resulting change may even include the visible scarring, which can diminish over time. As a result, patients will look younger than they do today.
When you think about how a tummy tuck is performed, you may want to discuss this option with your surgeon. If you are not sure whether you would like to undergo a tummy tuck, you should talk to your doctor about the pros and cons and whether you might be better off with a different procedure. Some people may find that a tummy tuck is the best option for them because it removes the majority of fat and skin from their body and leaves the body intact. Others, however, may feel that cosmetic surgeries like facelimination or breast augmentation are more appropriate.