What is a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is the surgical method to remove extra fat and skin from the abdominal region. Tummy tucks also help to tighten the muscles in the abdominal region giving it a fab look.
This surgery can be chosen by anybody who is in good health and wants to reduce abdominal size. It is also suitable for women who have saggy skin and muscles in the abdomen after pregnancy. It is also for those who are or were obese and have excess fat deposits and loose skin in the belly region.
A tummy tuck is not recommended for women who plan to get pregnant and have children in future. It is better to get the surgery done after having children, as pregnancies can separate the tightened vertical muscles. Moreover, it is not considered as a replacement for other weight loss methods. Tummy tucks are generally not suggested for those who want to lose extra weight.
Tummy tuck surgery is of two types:
- Complete abdominoplasty – In this procedure the skin, tissues, and muscles of the complete abdominal region are contoured.
- Partial abdominoplasty – This is suggested for those who have fat deposits below the navel region.
After surgery, pain, and swelling are common. Other common complications include numbness, bruising, and tiredness. This surgery is not without any risks. It may lead to infection, bleeding, and blood clots. The risks are greater if the person has diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease. Scarring may also happen after the surgery. The scars may fade but not disappear completely.
The surgery generally takes one to five hours for completion. Consult with a doctor before opting for this surgery. Understand the benefits and risks prior to getting ready for the surgery. Doctors may ask to quit smoking until two weeks after the procedure. This is important as smoking increases the risk of complications and slows down the process of healing. One should not be on a diet before this surgery, but have a balanced and healthy diet based on the requirement.
