A tummy tuck, also called an abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure in which the excess fat and skin around the abdominal area is removed. In some cases, torn muscles are repaired to further strengthen the abdominal wall. Tummy tucks are among the most popular plastic surgery procedures, others of which include breast augmentation and rhinoplasty.
Procedure
A tummy tuck is a relatively straightforward surgery. The surgeon makes a horizontal incision above the pubic area. A second incision may be made above the belly button if there is excess skin around that area. Then the extra fat is removed, and the loose muscles are tightened with sutures. The skin around the abdominal area is pulled downward to make it tighter, and the excess is cut off and discarded. A new opening is made for the belly button, which has moved farther down. The incisions are then sewn back up.
Surgery Preparation
Due to the many health risks involved with any surgical procedure, patients must prepare for the surgery by taking necessary precautions. Smokers must stop smoking at least a few days prior to the surgery. Patients should also avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications, which can lead to hemorrhaging during the surgery. Aspirin is another drug that can cause bleeding and should be avoided.
Duration of Surgery
Barring any complications, a tummy tuck procedure usually lasts about two to five hours. A partial tummy tuck lasts about one to two hours. A partial tummy tuck is often recommended for patients who fall within 10 percent of their ideal weight.
Duration of Results
Depending on how well you take care of your body after the procedure, a tummy tuck can last anywhere from a few months to several years. Significant weight gain or weight loss can have a significant effect on the appearance of the abdominal area. Pregnancy is another factor that can alter the contours of the newly shaped abdomen. Even after the procedure, it is important to maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routine to help keep the muscles firm and weight gain at bay. With a steady diet and exercise program, a tummy tuck can last up to five years or more. Following the procedure, progress will be evaluated during regular intervals by subsequent visits to the plastic surgeon's office.
Recovery
Average recovery time after a tummy tuck is generally two to four weeks, at which point many patients can return to school or work. The scars from the procedure usually take longer to fade and heal. In some cases, it can take a few years for the scars to heal considerably. A faster healing time for scarring is about three months. Recovery can be sped up if the patient gets plenty of rest, maintains a diet rich in vitamins and nutrients, avoids strenuous activity and keeps the abdominal area elevated.
Side Effects
As with most surgeries, side effects include acute pain, swelling and bruising, soreness and even numbness in the abdominal area that may last several weeks. Physicians will often prescribe medication to reduce pain and general discomfort. Swelling and bruising can be alleviated with a cold compress placed over the abdomen. Physicians may also prescribe a topical cream to help the tummy tuck scar heal properly and rapidly.
Risks
All surgeries pose health risks to the patient. Some surgeries are riskier than others. You should keep in mind that a surgical procedure can result in death, though it is rare. If the bandages are not changed often, an infection from outside bacteria can affect the abdominal area at the incision line. Other risks include blood clotting, excessive hemorrhaging and poor healing of scars. Make sure to consult your plastic surgeon immediately if any of these health risks affect you after the procedure. Don't let an infection or bleeding go unattended.
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