| Dr. Hauw Han 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. A Tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a common term for the surgical procedure to correct a protruding or loose, sagging abdomen. Areas to be treated may include the center of the abdomen or may extend to the entire area between the lower rib cage and pubic bone, as well as to the sides and back.
In general, a tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin, and in some cases restores weakened or separated muscles. This creates an abdominal profile that is smoother and firmer, often enhancing your body image and confidence.
Q. How is a tummy tuck performed?
A. Your tummy tuck will be individualized to your specific condition that may include:
* Excess localized fat in the abdominal area
* Loose and sagging skin in the abdominal region
* Weakened or separated abdominal muscles due to pregnancy, weight loss or aging
Surgical removal of excess fat and skin may be combined with liposuction during a tummy tuck. There are variations to tummy tuck surgery; the technique selected is dependant on the degree of correction necessary to achieve a flatter profile and firmer abdomen. Incision length and pattern depend on the amount and location of excess skin to be removed, as well as personal preference and surgical judgment.
Liposuction may be used in conjunction with a tummy tuck or to recontour other areas of the body by removing localized excess fat deposits. Other body contouring procedures may be performed separately or in the same surgical session as a tummy tuck.
Q. How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
A. They are done as an outpatient and takes about 2 hours. Patients usually need 2-3 weeks before returning to work but 6 weeks before finally recovery.
Q. Are there risks and complications to a tummy tuck?
A. By making the decision to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon like me and following all the instructions given, you are taking an important step in helping to assure your safety.
Possible risks of a tummy tuck inlcude but are not limited too:
* Blood clots
* Blood pooling beneath the skin (hematoma)
* Fluid accumulation
* Infection or poor healing of the incision site.
Any surgery carries risks associated with anesthesia. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks or potential complications.
Q. What should one expect after the operation?
A. Once your procedure is completed, dressing or bandages may be applied to your incisions, and you may be wrapped in an elastic bandage or a compression garment to minimize swelling and to support your abdomen as it heals. A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood that may collect.
I will also instruct you how to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery, medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection, specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health and when to come in for follow-up visits. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing.
Progress and healing
Initial healing will include swelling and discomfort at the incision sites. Discomfort is common and can be controlled with medication. You will be instructed to return to light walking as soon as possible to minimize the potential for blood clots and other complications. For the the first few days following surgery you should:
* Avoid bending, straining, or lifting anything
* Avoid standing fully upright, to avoid stressing any internal sutures
* Sleep with pillows elevating your knees
Initial wound healing may take 5 to 10 days. Any sutures will be removed some time after that, if necessary. You will be ready to return to work and normal activity in a few weeks, so long as you do not engage in any heavy lifting or vigorous exercise.
Continue to follow the doctor’s instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.
Q. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
A. The results of a tummy tuck are visible almost immediately; however it may take several months for your final results to fully develop. Numbness and a firm feeling over the skin’s surface will resolve over the following months. It may take a year or more for incision lines to refine to some degree. Although they are permanent, these scars are hidden by most clothing and swimsuits.
Your new profile with a firm and flat abdomen is relatively permanent, so long as you maintain your weight and general fitness. As your body ages you may find that some firmness is lost in the abdomen. However, this is minimal compared to the initial conditions that were corrected to achieve your now toned abdomen.
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