The Tummy Tuck Procedure Can Recontour the Abdomen

As we age, many of us discover that our stomachs have developed excess fat. Drooping muscle tissue can also contribute to an out-of-shape look, as can excess skin. These issues can come about as a result of several factors, including dramatic weight loss, lifestyle factors, aging, and genetics.

Not everyone has the willpower to work out on a regular basis or stick to a diet plan. Even those who do often find that all their hard work hasn’t given them the results they wanted. For people with excess sagging skin, stubborn excess fat, and drooping muscle tissue, these lackluster results are all too common.

People who have trouble resolving problems with the appearance of their stomach are ideal candidates for an abdominoplasty. This procedure tightens the muscles while removing excessive fat and loose skin. It can also remove stretch marks. The objective is to ensure that the patient has a flatter and smoother abdomen, which can create an overall fitter appearance.

The Tummy Tuck – What to Expect

Depending on the types of techniques used, the tummy-tuck surgery can go from two to four hours. The patient is administered with general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation.

During the tummy tuck, incisions are made in the lower region of the abdomen and around the belly button. The main incision is a curving horizontal line made from hipbone to hipbone. Once the incisions have been made, excess fat is removed, internal sutures are used to tighten abdominal muscle tissue, and drooping skin is trimmed away.

Once the procedure is over, the remaining skin is redraped and the incisions are sutured shut. This leads to tighter skin.

Recovery After Surgery

Once the operation is complete, a tube is inserted in the region to remove any excessive fluid buildup from the tissues. This prevents post-surgical complications like the formation of seromas and hematomas.

The normal recovery period of a patient opting for a tummy tuck is about six weeks in total. After the procedure, the patient must wear a post-surgical elastic support garment for the first few weeks. This garment is able to help the skin better conform to the recontoured area and can keep swelling to a minimum.

Any soreness and pain felt by the patient during the healing process can be relieved by prescription pain medication. A patient can typically get back to work within around two weeks, depending on the type of job. Strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks as recommended by your plastic surgeon.

The full results of the procedure will not be apparent until after the swelling has completely ameliorated. One can expect to see a firmer tummy and a smooth abdomen at this time.

Set Up Your Tummy-Tuck Consultation Today

Take the first step on your journey to a sculpted and fit abdomen – contact our office and set up a tummy-tuck consultation. Doctors Andrew Ordon and Ritu Chopra are experienced plastic surgeons with the skills needed to give you a stomach you can be proud to show off.