Tummy Tuck

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a procedure in which the skin and fat around the stomach is adjusted to enhance the appearance of the abdomen. The procedure can involve many different components, including liposuction treatment, muscle adjustment and retightening. A tummy tuck is a purely cosmetic procedure with no benefits in terms of weight loss or general health improvement.

What does a Tummy Tuck involve?

The tummy tuck procedure involves one or more incisions in the area just below the abdomen. The surgeon will then use minimally invasive tools in order to access the internal tissue. These tools will be used to remove excess fat via liposuction in some cases, and to smooth out the skin by tightening the muscles underneath.

Who is a good candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Candidates for a tummy tuck are adults who have completed their growth and development. It is important that the patient be fully healthy and that the patient does not suffer from any other underlying medical conditions which may put him or her at increased risk of injury or death during the operation. The most common patients for a tummy tuck procedure include women who have recently given birth, people who have recently lost a significant amount of weight via exercise, diet or other surgical procedures, and people who have experienced sagging of the abdominal area as a result of aging.

What are the benefits of a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck has many benefits over other procedures. It is minimally invasive compared to many other procedures that make corrections for the appearance of the stomach. The procedure is becoming less invasive all the time, as new tools and equipment are developed to help minimize the need for large incisions.

What is the recovery like?

A tummy tuck recovery generally requires careful monitoring of the area for several weeks. This is necessary to ensure that the stitches surrounding the incisions do not rupture, which can lead to complications. The patient will be required to clean and redress the incisions regularly. Painkillers and antibiotics are typically administered to help prevent discomfort and secondary infection. The patient will be required to abstain from strenuous physical activity for a recuperation period following the operation.

What are the results like?

The results of a tummy tuck will include a firmer, more taut stomach and abdominal area. This procedure will not help to provide significant weight loss, although some degree of weight loss may be observed.

What are the risks of a Tummy Tuck?

There are risks of a negative reaction to the anesthesia or any of the painkillers used before, during and after the procedure. Secondary infection can cause numerous complications. There is also a risk of scarring on the abdomen and mild loss of sensation in the area of the incisions.

Disclaimer: This information is intended only as an introduction to this procedure. This information should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor does it guarantee results of your elective surgery. Further details regarding surgical standards and procedures should be discussed with your physician.