What is Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty)?
Tummy Tuck, technically known more as „abdominoplasty“ is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall.
Tummy tuck surgery can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. But please bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar, which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip.
Tummy Tuck surgery flattens a protruding tummy caused by weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy – areas that do not respond well to diet or exercise because the skin has been stretched. Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate your general health. The plastic surgeon will discuss realistic expectations and will determine the extent of the surgery required. We will ask you to inform us and the plastic surgeon whether you smoke and if you are taking any medicines.
Abdominoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgeries for women and is becoming increasingly popular for men as well. If you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck, additional combination surgeries such as liposuction also may be appropriate.
Reasons for getting a Tummy Tuck:
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won’t respond to diet or exercise.
The tummy tuck surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved. Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery.
Also, women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy. If you have scarring from previous abdominal surgery, your doctor may recommend against tummy tuck or may caution you that scars could be unusually prominent.
Tummy tuck surgery can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily change your looks to match your ideal, or cause other people to treat you differently. Before you decide to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with a plastic surgeon.