In today’s age of ‘Six-Pack Abs’, a toned and sculpted abdomen is a coveted prize for most. Medical complications, hereditary conditions, the aging process, and hormonal issues, however, make it hard to achieve a taut and flat tummy.
A tummy tuck surgery or abdominoplasty is used to address a protruding or sagging abdomen that does not respond to exercise and diet. This surgery not only removes fat from the abdomen, but also provides it structure by tightening the skin and strengthening the abdominal walls.
Who Is Eligible for an Abdominoplasty?
A tummy tuck surgery is a great solution for those who have a hard time toning their stomachs. You will make a great candidate if:
• You are a woman who was recently pregnant or you have gone through multiple pregnancies and experience loose folds of skin in the abdomen.
• You have recently lost a large amount of weight and the skin around your tummy region remains loose.
This surgery is not advisable for women who are planning a pregnancy. It should also not be considered as an alternative to weight loss measures. An abdominoplasty is most effective in removing stubborn fat that cannot be removed by exercise.
Types of Abdominoplasty
In a complete tummy tuck surgery, a big incision is made on the abdomen and the underlying muscles, tissues, and the skin are adjusted and contoured. A mini abdominoplasty is performed on people who have belly fat that is concentrated below the navel.
This is a comparatively simpler process as it does not involve moving your belly button unlike in a complete abdominoplasty.
Advantages of the Procedure
• Stress Urinary Incontinence caused by a vaginal birth can be managed by abdominoplasty.
• It helps strengthen weakened abdominal muscles and cure Ventral Hernia.
• Tighter abdominal muscles improve posture and prevent distention of the tummy.
• Your tummy will look more toned and well contoured.
Preparing for the Treatment
General guidelines that must be followed before the surgery are:
• Undergo a thorough medical check up to ensure stable vitals.
• Refrain from smoking completely to facilitate the healing process.
• Stop taking certain medications such as aspirin, herbal supplements, or anti-inflammatory drugs.
The Procedure
Your surgeon will begin the procedure by making a horizontal incision below the belly button to repair the abdominal muscles. If there is sagging skin in the upper abdomen, it is trimmed and then pulled down and sutured together. If needed, the belly button will be repositioned to fit the new look of your tummy.
Recovery
As abdominoplasty is a major surgical procedure, it needs great care to heal completely. Some ways to ensure a quick recovery are:
• Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the post operation care. This includes maintaining the bandages as well as sitting or sleeping in particular positions to aid healing.
• Wear comfortable clothing that allows enough breathing space.
• Completely abstain from any strenuous activity that puts pressure on the abdominal region.
• Use ice packs and compression garments as per the doctor’s instructions.
• Follow a light diet that helps in weight management.
An abdominoplasty can enhance your appearance drastically and improve your quality of life as it flattens the stomach not only by superficial removal of fat but also by treating the underlying muscles.
Contact Our Office
If you’re interested in recontouring your abdominal region for a more toned and defined tummy, contact our office today. Dr. Tal Roudner, a double-board-certified plastic surgeon, will assess your body during a consultation and develop a customised plan to suit your needs.