Tummy Tuck: Stop Hiding Behind Baggy Shirts
If there is any area of the body that’s problematic for anyone trying to shed off a few pounds, it’s the abs. There are countless products, diets, and workout routines that aim to flatten out the mid-section. But even then, regardless of how much weight is shed through diet and exercise, “the gut” is something that won’t immediately go away. So, instead of trying to hide the area with a loose shirt, why not show it off once and for all with a little extra help and care from a board-certified plastic surgeon?
Among the top procedures for men and women in their late-thirties/early-forties is an Abdominoplasty, which is more commonly known as a ‘Tummy Tuck’. The procedure involves the removal of excess skin and tissue around the abdomen, leaving the patient with a slimmer and firmer midsection.
Generally, men and women between the ages of 25-65 are candidates for a Complete Abdominoplasty, especially for people had just undergone significant weight loss. It’s also become a viable option for women who have undergone several pregnancies and are looking to finally shed off the excess skin.
What’s a Tummy Tuck?
Depending on the patient’s needs, the procedure comes in a number of variants with the most common being a Complete Abdominoplasty, which flattens the upper and lower abdomen, and a Partial Abdominoplasty, that flattens the lower abdomen. Due to its relatively short recovery time and the minimal amount of invasive surgery involved, a Partial Abdominoplasty is generally preferred among patients.
“Patients must understand that Tummy Tucks and Liposuction are two different procedures altogether”, advises Dr. Roehl. “Where Liposuction involves the removal of excess fat, Abdominoplasty tightens the skin and abdominal walls.”
Dr. Roehl adds. “Liposuction can be included, should the patient need further sculpting around the waist.”
The Recovery Period
Depending on the procedure, the recovery process may take between six to eight weeks. At the start, patients will be advised from engaging from any strenuous form of activity, as proper rest is crucial to the healing process. A well-balanced diet can also do wonders during this period.
Smokers should stop 2-3 weeks prior to the procedure. And while smoking can resume after the first two weeks of recovery, it is not advised since it would lead to complications that will slow down the healing process.
Surgical drains will also be required during the first two weeks in order to collect excess serous fluid from the body. Drains must be emptied three times a day and patients will be asked to regularly monitor the number of fluids their body secretes.
Regular activity can resume after the first three weeks, depending on the extensiveness of the procedure. This can involve driving, walking, light exercise, and running basic errands. Depending on the nature of work, patients may return to their day job as well.
What Can a Tummy Tuck do for Me?
Under the care and guidance of a board-certified surgeon, a Tummy Tuck yields incredible results. Not only does the procedure contour the body to its desired shape, but it can also leave a lasting, emotional impact.
“The biggest takeaway is seeing the renewal of self-confidence in my patients”, Dr. Roehl shares.
Like most cosmetic procedures, Tummy Tucks are not a means to an end. In many cases, it is the last resort for people who have exhausted conventional means and who wish to shed off the excess skin once and for all. With a healthy lifestyle and a well-balanced diet, the remarkable results from a Tummy Tuck can last a lifetime.
