Looking Into Tummy Tuck Surgery: Need To Know Before Getting One

Body standards have been a long struggle for women. Today, more body shapes and sizes are celebrated, focusing on health over appearance.  Still, many people consider a well-toned and symmetric body a beauty standard. 

When it comes to toning your midsection, diet and exercise can only go as far as getting rid of excess fat and toning muscles. However, it can’t help with loose skin and a stretched out abdominal wall; that is where a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, comes in. 

Understanding Tummy Tuck Surgeries

A tummy tuck targets excessive, loose abdominal skin and loose abdominal muscles. It is often combined with liposuction to contour the surrounding hips and waist.  

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision low on the abdomen so that it will be hidden in the bikini line. The skin is lifted up and pulled tight, removing the excess.  The abdominal muscles are then repaired to flatten the abdomen and narrow the waist.  Most patients will require some liposuction of the waist and hips for optimal contour. 

Below are some facts about tummy tucks you may want to know before getting the procedure.

It Has Extended Downtimes

An abdominoplasty incision typically runs from hip to hip, so it is important to watch your posture and position to avoid healing issues and wound separation. 

In the first few days, you will note some tightness, muscle spasms and soreness.  Dr. Steele will prescribe a multimodal pain regimen to optimize your comfort.  You will also feel tired from the anesthesia and have some swelling and possible bruising. However, you can expect the pain, swelling, and fatigue to subside with proper care by the second week. 

You can start light physical activity around week four and return to almost normal activities by week six. However, you may have to refrain from strenuous activities for longer. You should plan to take 10-14 days off from work to optimize your recovery.

It Will Leave a Permanent Scar

Like other surgical procedures, a tummy tuck will leave you with a scar along the abdomen. However, the location and the scar types will depend on the type of abdominoplasty, with traditional tummy tucks producing scars that run from hip to hip. 

The scar will fade with proper care over time but never disappear entirely. Also, an experienced cosmetic surgeon knows the perfect place to make the incision so that it stays covered under clothing such as swimsuits and underwear.

It Is Not a Weight Loss Procedure

If your goal is to lose weight, a tummy tuck is not the right option. It can help highlight lost weight, but it is not a weight loss option. It is an option you consider after hitting your weight loss goals but are unimpressed with the loose skin resulting from lost weight or after childbirth. Dr. Steele will  recommend getting close to your ideal, goal weight before surgery.   

Also, you must maintain a healthy weight after surgery; otherwise, additional weight will undo the gains made through the procedure. “Adding weight results in skin elongation due to its elasticity. If you lose weight and hope to get back in shape, you may have to undergo the procedure again,” says plastic surgeon Dr. Steele. 

Body contouring procedures such as an abdominoplasty and liposuction will provide permanent and stable results as long as you follow your treating doctor’s instructions on lifestyle and care post-surgery. 

Also Read: Workplace Accidents: Understanding Employee Rights to Compensation