| Dr. Richard T. Ethridge is a plastic surgeon and has answered some of the common questions Bizymoms visitors have about Tummy Tuck.
Q. What is a tummy tuck?
A. Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin, and in most cases restores weakened or separated muscles creating an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer.
Excess fat in the lower abdomen is a common complaint for both men and women. Women have the additional concern of childbirth, which can significantly alter the abdominal muscles. When there is good skin tone, no stretch marks, and a limited amount of fat, liposuction alone often is best. However, when stretch marks are present in addition to stretched abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck remains the best option.
Q. How is a tummy tuck performed?
A. In this procedure, the incision is kept low below your underwear line. We remove a wedge of fat and skin, relocate the belly button, and tighten the abdominal muscles. This procedure can be combined with liposuction to the flanks (outer thighs) to further sculpt your body.
Q. How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
A. The procedure length is approximately three hours.
Q. Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?
A. All surgeries have risks. As with any surgical procedure, risks may include pain, bleeding, infection, fluid collections, wound healing problems, and blood clots. However, these complications are extremely rare.
Limited side effects may include temporary swelling, bruising, and some pain.
Q. What should one expect after the operation?
A. Recovery from abdominoplasty is generally one to two weeks for a return to work and normal daily activity. You can resume more strenuous activity, such as exercise, four to six weeks after the procedure.
Q. How much does a tummy tuck cost?
A. Prices for tummy tucks can vary widely and are dependant on factors including the surgeon’s experience, the type of procedure used, and the geographic office location. Costs may include the surgeon’s fee, surgical facility costs, anesthesia fees, prescriptions for medication, post-surgery garments, medical tests.
When choosing a plastic surgeon, remember that the surgeon’s experience and your comfort with him or her are just as important as the final cost of the surgery. And, although cosmetic surgery can be expensive, the results can be invaluable. Also keep in mind that many plastic surgeons offer financing plans.
My advice: Visit several surgeons, and find one who truly listens to you and understands your goals.
Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
A. It will take about three months to gauge the final appearance resulting from the procedure. These results are permanent. To maintain the best possible long-term results, we urge that patients consider proper diet and a viable exercise routine.
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