Information About The Tummy Tuck And People Who Have Them
Males and females elect to have tummy tucks also known as abdominoplasty. Individuals who have the tummy tuck are those who have loose abdominal skin and fat that is concentrated in the abdominal area. Conditions that require a tummy tuck may be inherited, or they may be caused by substantial weight loss. A tummy tuck may also be helpful in cases where abdominal muscles have separated or weakened due to pregnancy. A tummy tuck may improve the appearance of stretch marks if they are located below the navel.
You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you have excessive or sagging abdominal skin, or if your abdomen protrudes out of proportion to the rest of your body. You may also be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you have been pregnant and have experienced abdominal muscle separation or weakened muscles. You may also be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you have excess fatty tissue in your abdomen. Factors that will be accessed by your doctor to see if you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck will include the degree of loose skin in your abdominal area, the amount of excess fat you have in your abdominal area, and also the condition of your abdominal muscles. A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery and is therefore generally not covered by most insurance plans.
As with any surgery there are risks involved such as bleeding and infection as well as reactions to the anesthesia.
Anyone who smokes should quit prior to his or her surgery. Tell your doctor if you take aspirin or anti-inflammatory drugs as they can increase bleeding. These drugs should be avoided if possible prior to surgery.
A tummy tuck is usually done on an outpatient basis. You will need someone to drive you home afterwards and possibly to stay with you for a while you heal for at least a day or two.
Typically a general anesthesia is used during your procedure so you will be asleep during the procedure. You are generally not required to stay over night, as this is usually an outpatient procedure.
It is important to get up and walk around the day after surgery to help your blood circulation. You will be asked not to strain yourself or to bend or lift heavy objects. You will probably be asked to sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees. If you go home with surgical drains in place they will be removed a week after your surgery date. You will probably have to wear a support garment for several weeks. Stitches will need to be removed in approximately one to two weeks after surgery.
It is normal to have slight swelling and bruising. It may take months before all the swelling goes down and you are able to see the full effects of your surgery.
