Tummy Tuck

What is Tummy Tuck?

A Tummy Tuck is a plastic surgery procedure which removes extra fat especially the extra fat that is around the stomach. This procedure is also called abdominoplasty.                             

Are you qualified for Tummy Tuck?

If you are overweight and have extra fat around your midriff or tummy, you can attempt a Tummy Tuck procedure. This is so, if you cannot control your diet or food eating and if you cannot spare the time or has the inclination for exercise or taking long walks. You should be in reasonable good health, should not have problems like hypertension or diabetes, and if you have them, then they should be brought under control using medicines before going in for a Tummy Tuck. Many women after pregnancy or child birth tend to put on weight around their stomach. In some cases it may be hereditary and the extra fat may be difficult to remove by diet control or regular visits to the gym. Such people benefit by Tummy Tucks which will remove the flab.

Procedure

1.  You will be given a general anesthesia so you will not have any pain or discomfort during the procedure.

2.  The surgeon will make an incision between the naval and pubic area. The length and size of the incision will depend upon the amount of fat to be removed.

3.  The fat will be cut off. The muscles will be tightened and also the skin will be tightened. If necessary, liposuction may be used to remove the fat.

4.  The surgeon will place stitches to join the two flaps of the incision. These stitches may be absorbable in which case they will be absorbed by the body. Or they may be removable, in which case you will have to go to the hospital to get them removed. This is generally after eight to ten days.

5.  Bandages will be used to cover the wound. A thin tube may be left inside to drain off the excess fluid.

Risk

Like any other surgical procedure, the Tummy Tuck also carries some risks:

1.  Some bleeding

2.  Some pain or discomfort

3.  Scarring after the wound heals

4.  Anesthesia related problems

5.  Another surgery if there is some problem with this one

Post treatment and Care

There will be bandages around the wound. As there may be swelling or pain or discomfort, you should take the medications prescribed by the surgeon. If any problems persist you should contact the doctor. You should take bed rest as per the doctor’s instructions. You should not lift anything heavy for some time. You should go for a post operative check up after the specified period. After about two weeks you will see the results. You will have a firmer and smoother abdomen.

Questions to Ask your Plastic Surgeon

1.  What are the risks that are involved with a Tummy Tuck?

2.  What is the procedure like?

3.  Can I see before and after pictures of previous surgeries?

4.  How soon will you be able to resume your normal activities?

5.  Would my health care plan pay or reimburse the expenses?

6.  Where and how will you perform my surgery?

7.  Will there be a scar?

8.  Where will I be transferred to after surgery?

9.  Will I be given medication after surgery? What kind? 

10. What is the removal process for dressings, bandages and/or stitches? 

11. When do I return for my follow-up visit?