Why Do Women Think About a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is usually sought after by women who have saggy skin in their abdominal area. They expect that the procedure to result in a flatter, younger looking abdomen and improved waistline. Women think about tummy tuck when the loose skin in the abdominal area mars their looks. This could be due to one of the following factors:

• Multiple pregnancies
• Post-pregnancy skin sagging
• Persistence of abdominal fat and loose skin despite a controlled and healthy diet and weight-loss regimen

So the procedure is ideal for women of normal weight who wish to get rid of loose or stretched abdominal skin.  

About the Procedure

There are basically two types of procedures: complete abdominoplasty and mini tummy tuck. The ‘complete’ surgery is meant for women who require extensive correction. A long incision is placed in the lower abdominal area, from hip to hip, and one around the navel. The partial or mini tummy tuck involves less scarring. An endoscopic procedure is used to tighten abdominal muscles Women who consider tummy tuck surgery need to be aware of the basics of the procedure:

• General anesthesia is applied
• An incision is made above the pubic hair line from hip to hip, or below the naval line
• Excess skin and fat is removed
• The abdominal tissue is tightened
• The incision is closed with sutures

After the procedure, result is a flatter abdomen with less stretch marks. A full tummy tuck is for those with lots of skin to get rid off. A partial or mini one requires shorter incisions, done for those having fat under the belly-button.

 Things to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon

A tummy tuck should be performed by a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon. As with any other plastic surgery procedure, there could be risks involved. Having a qualified surgeon perform the surgery can minimize the risks. The right surgeon will do a thorough evaluation of your physical condition and medical history before going ahead. Choose a surgeon you are comfortable with. Here are some questions you may ask your physician:

• Is the surgery right for me?
• What result can I expect after the procedure?
• When will I recover completely?
• What kind of anesthesia is used?
• What are the risks involved in this procedure?
• When will I be able to resume normal activity after the surgery?
• How many abdominoplasty procedures have you performed?

You can also ask to see before and after pictures of previous surgeries, but remember that results may vary among patients.You might be asked to stay at the hospital for a day or two based on the time you might need to recover. Make sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions for a fast recovery.