If you have always wanted a smooth, sleek abdomen but have found it impossible to get rid of a few pockets of fat and extra skin folds no matter how much you exercise or diet, you are not alone. In fact, the tummy tuck, which can help address all of these issues, is the sixth most popular cosmetic surgery procedure, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
But what is a tummy tuck, and what can you expect from the surgery? At DFW Center for Aesthetics and Cosmetic Surgery, we can help you decide whether it is the right procedure for you.
What Is a Tummy Tuck? Getting the Basics Down
A tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can remove excess fat as well as skin from the abdominal area. While doing so, the tummy tuck surgery can also tighten the abdominal muscles to give you an even smoother look. It can be the right option for people who:
- Have gone through a pregnancy
- Have lost significant weight
- Are in good overall health
Abdominoplasty surgery is not a weight loss solution, so it is important to be within your target weight. Women who are planning on having future pregnancies should wait to do so before getting this type of surgery.
A tummy tuck procedure does not only help your abdomen look sleeker. It can also help with back problems by tightening the muscles in your abdomen, helping you build a stronger core.
A stronger core can lead to better posture, relieving pressure on your hips and knees while also helping your balance and reducing back pain. Abdominoplasty surgery can also remove some of the pressure on your pelvic area, which could be causing or worsening urinary incontinence issues.
Having excess skin in your abdominal area can be more than an aesthetic concern. Excess skin can make mobility more difficult, reducing how active you can be. A tummy tuck can help.
Tummy Tuck Procedure: What to Expect From the Process
When you come to our offices for a consultation, we will begin by asking you some questions about your goals and expectations. We will also need to know about your medical history and whether you are on any medications. After that, we can examine your abdomen to see if you can benefit from this type of surgical procedure.
Because abdominoplasty surgery requires the use of general anesthesia, we need your GP to sign off on the procedure. We will also need some bloodwork done to check that you are healthy enough for surgery. You will have to follow a few guidelines to prepare for the tummy tuck so that you have the best chance of going through an easier recovery process.
If you smoke, you will need to quit at least a few weeks before surgery. We know it’s not easy to do so, but tobacco products can cause complications both during the procedure and after it.
Two weeks before surgery, stop taking blood-thinning medications and supplements. If you are not sure about whether you should continue a particular medication, ask your GP and us.
About a week before the procedure, prepare your recovery area. You will need to rest and not move about very much through the first few days, so you’ll want to have everything on hand. We can give you a list of items to have ready.
Drink lots of water and eat a healthy meal the night before your surgery. You want to go for high-protein and low-fat options because, on the day of your surgery, you will not be allowed to eat or drink anything. You can take a shower but don’t wear any makeup, lotions, or creams. We will make you comfortable, give you general anesthesia, and then the procedure can start.
Tummy Tuck Recovery: Tips for Smooth Sailing as You Heal
As you begin your tummy tuck recovery, you will want to remember one thing: rest is key. You want to give your body time as well as the right tools to heal. This means drinking lots of water and avoiding alcohol, caffeine, or anything else that might dehydrate you. We also recommend that you eat healthy meals, including lots of protein and minimal amounts of fat.
Although we recommend that you get up and walk a bit every few hours, take substantial breaks, and listen to your body. We will give you instructions on how to manage the incision sites, so make sure to follow our guidance to prevent any complications.
Keep in mind that you will have to wear a compression garment for a few days after the procedure. This is an essential aspect of the tummy tuck recovery process, offering the support your abdominal wall needs as you heal while also keeping swelling under control.
As you heal, and especially during the first few days after the procedure, you need to have someone helping you. You will not be able to lift anything heavy or do anything strenuous for at least two weeks.
Be patient with yourself. It will take a few days to be able to stand completely upright, so do not push your body if it is not ready.
Strengthen Your Core and Get a Smoother Abdomen With a Tummy Tuck
Tummy tuck surgery can help you feel and look better. Whether you have lost a lot of weight or have gone through a pregnancy and want to tighten the area, we can help at DFW Center for Aesthetics and Cosmetic Surgery in Southlake, TX. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
