Are You Considering Abdominoplasty?

 Abdominoplasty procedures, which most of us call tummy tucks are relatively simple procedures to that remove the loose skin and fat from around the upper, lower or both abdominal region of your torso. It also repairs damaged or weakened muscles that allow us to have a flat stomach rather than unsightly bulges. Tummy tucks are usually voluntary procedures that are for cosmetic purposes rather than a health risk and they are common among women who find it difficult to return to shape after giving birth to one or more children.

Invasive Not Subtle

A full tummy tuck is rarely something that goes unnoticed because it is a drastic change to the affected area. Subtle weight loss is rarely achievable with a full tummy tuck, although some people opt for a mini tummy tuck, which could prove less noticeable if the patient is a little conscious of letting people know they have had surgery. The problem with having a mini tuck is that it only changes the area under the bellybutton and this is a problem if the fascia above the bellybutton is damaged and needs attention because it can cause an overhang with a worse appearance than before treatment. Good surgeons would advise patients whether they can get away with a mini tummy tuck or if they need a full procedure.

The Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck, although not generally considered a risky procedure, is considered an invasive process and any operation carries risks. For the most part, complications are very rare so most patients are extremely happy with the results and any complications are generally minor infections along the incision or a fluid build-up following the procedure that is quickly and easily drained. As with all operations, there is a risk of blood clots etc, but these are minimised in the usual way (such as compression socks).

What to Think About Before Choosing a Tuck

Your surgeon will often talk you through your physical health issues and counsel you on the steps you need to take to improve your health before and after the procedure. Pre-existing conditions such as a hernia in the abdomen or medication you are currently taking will affect some of the surgeon’s decisions. Any allergies you have can also play a role in whether or not a surgeon can use certain anaesthetics or even go ahead with the procedure, but this is no different from any other operation.

Home Care After Surgery

It’s likely to take anything up to a month for you to feel well enough and to have close to the movement you enjoyed pre-operation. It may be a bit of a cliché, but rest and more rest is the best prescription for a full and hassle-free recovery.

You will often need to wear compression clothing during your recovery time and tend to the incision wounds regularly. Providing you follow the surgeon’s instructions, you should be fully recovered by around six weeks after the operation, which for an invasive procedure, is no time at all, but much will depend on age.