Tummy Tuck
A Tummy Tuck, or an abdominoplasty, is a very common surgical procedure which works to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdominal area. Skin, in many ways, can be compared to a rubber band. While skin is able to stretch and reshape, it can only be stretched so far before it won’t be able to return to its normal shape. When skin is stretched too far, from instances such as rapid weight gain followed by rapid weight loss or multiple pregnancies, it fails to be able to return to its normal shape. The result is commonly stretched, crinkly skin that is unable to respond to diet or exercise.
When this is the case, many individuals will choose to undergo a Tummy Tuck in order to return their midsection to its normal shape and size. The tummy tuck procedure is a surgical procedure that will be performed under either a local or a general anesthetic; anesthesia will depend on the doctor performing the procedure as well as each individual case.
The procedure will begin with a horizontal incision that is made directly above the pubic area. Once the incision is made, the skin is pulled back so that excess fat and tissue can be trimmed off and suctioned out. At this point, abdominal muscles can also be sutured in order to tighten them. Once the muscles are tightened and the excess fat and tissue is removed, the skin will be brought back down. The navel area will be repositioned and the excess skin will be trimmed before the incision is sutured closed.
The Tummy Tuck procedure works to reduce the fat and skin in the abdominal area; the results are often a flatter abdomen and a smaller waist. Several days following the procedure, patients will experience swelling and pain in the abdominal area; this can be controlled with medication and will eventually subside. Surface area sutures will be removed about 5 to 7 days following the procedure and the deeper sutures will be removed about 2 weeks following surgery.
Patients will find it hard to stand straight at first because of the strain on the abdominal muscles, but it is encouraged to stand up and walk around as much as possible. It will take several weeks for patients to return completely too normal, although it may cause some pain, exercise will help the muscles to heal faster. If you find yourself eating right and exercising regularly with no improvements to the abdominal area, a Tummy Tuck could be just what you need to feel better about your body and your life. |
