Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Basics
Who are the best candidates for a tummy tuck?
-
An ideal candidate for abdominoplasty is a woman who has had children, is physically healthy, but may have loose skin, sagging skin, or stretch marks as a result of pregnancy.
-
Women who have had abdominal scars from surgery, such as a Cesarean or appendectomy are also considered good candidates for a tummy tuck.
-
Individuals who have a protruding abdomen out of proportion with the rest of their body or have abdominal muscles that have been weakened or separated will benefit from abdominoplasty as well.
-
Although a tummy tuck is not a cure for obesity, the procedure is often appropriate for individuals who have had significant fluctuations in weight.
Regardless of the cause of their loose skin or excess fat, candidates should have a realistic expectation as to the outcome of their tummy tuck.
Who is a tummy tuck not appropriate for?
-
Individuals who desire to have future pregnancies are advised to postpone a tummy tuck procedure as are individuals planning on losing substantial weight loss.
-
Abdominoplasty is generally not a good option is you smoke. If you do smoke, your Locatadoc.com surgeon will request you to quit smoking for a period of time before your procedure.
Where are incisions made?
Although the exact technique used to flatten and smooth your tummy will vary depending on your condition, in most patients a horizontal incision is made just above or within the pubic area. The scar typically runs from hip to hip. Your surgeon will attempt to place the incision as low on your abdomen as possible. If there is additional loose skin above your navel (belly button), your surgeon may need to make a second incision to pull the excess skin down and remove it. In some individuals, a "T-shaped" incision is made: one horizontally and one vertically.
How should I prepare for my tummy tuck?
If you smoke, you'll be instructed to stop smoking well in advance of your abdominoplasty. Because some anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin can promote increased bleeding, your doctor will advise you to stop taking these medications for a period of time prior to your surgery.
A tummy tuck can be performed on an outpatient basis. You will need to arrange transportation home from the outpatient facility where your Locateadoc.com surgeon will perform your procedure. It's also advised to have someone stay with you for the next day or two. However, if your tummy performed in conjunction with another medically necessary surgery, like a hernia repair or hysterectomy, a short hospital stay may be required.
What kind of anesthesia will I be given?
The type of anesthesia given to you will depend on the extent of your condition. In some cases, your tummy tuck will be performed under intravenous sedation and anesthesia. In other cases, a general anesthesia will be administered. Either way, medications will provide you with comfort during the abdominoplasty. A tummy tuck procedure typically takes between 2 and 4 hours.
More Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Information »
|
