Q - What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery procedure which can correct a protruding abdomen. The abdomen may protrude as a result of weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy, and obesity can cause the skin to lose its elasticity. If the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched, these conditions may not be responsive to diet and exercise. During surgery, the body contour is improved by removing excess fatty tissue and skin and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall.
Q - How do I know if I’m a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Dr. Abergel will consider certain factors such as age, obesity and smoking habits when evaluating whether or not you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck. Ideally, patients should be free of health problems, in relatively good shape, and looking only to remove an excess fat deposit or loose abdominal skin. Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss and patients should be realistic in their expectations. The procedure should be delayed for women planning future pregnancies and for patients on a weight-loss plan until their target weight has been nearly achieved.
Q - What happens during a consultation for a tummy tuck?
During the consultation for a tummy tuck, we will take a complete medical history and conduct a thorough examination in order to evaluate your overall health. Dr. Abergel will consider factors such as your age, obesity and smoking habits to determine if the tummy tuck is right for you.
Q - Is there anything I need to do before surgery to prepare for my tummy tuck?
You will be prescribed antibiotics which you will need to take prior to your surgery to prevent infection. You will also need to avoid taking drugs containing aspirin in order to minimize the risk of excess bleeding. For several days before your surgery, you will need to bathe with an antiseptic soap.
Q - Where is the tummy tuck procedure performed?
The tummy tuck is performed in an outpatient surgery center.
Q - What form of anesthesia is the tummy tuck performed with?
General anesthesia is used for the tummy tuck procedure, and patients may be given medication beforehand to help them feel relaxed.
Q - How is the tummy tuck performed?
Photographs are taken before and after surgery. After the anesthesia is administered, a U-shaped incision is made across the pubic area from below one hipbone to the other and an additional small incision is made around the belly button. Working through the incisions, sutures are used to tighten loose, stretched our muscles. Excess skin and fat are then removed, the skin is lowered over the abdomen, and the navel is reconstructed. The incisions are closed with sutures and drain may be inserted to eliminate fluid build-up. Firm, elastic bandages are then applied to the treatment area.
Q - How long is the surgery for a tummy tuck?
Depending on the patient’s overall condition, tummy tuck surgery usually takes two to five hours to complete.
Q - Can I drive myself home after my tummy tuck?
Patients will not be able to drive themselves home after the tummy tuck and should arrange for someone else to take them home.
Q - Will I need to have someone stay with me after my tummy tuck?
It’s often helpful to have someone stay with you for the first twenty-four hours after your tummy tuck.
Q - Where are the incisions made for a tummy tuck?
The tummy tuck typically involves a U-shaped incision which is made across the pubic area between the hipbones. A second small incision is also made around the navel.
Q - Does the tummy tuck leave scars?
The incisions made for a tummy tuck do result in scars and can be somewhat extensive as they run between the hip bones across the pubic area and around the navel. However, the scars will fade and flatten and this often takes nine to twelve months to occur.
Q - Will I experience much pain after my tummy tuck?
Some discomfort can occur after the tummy tuck and this can be controlled with pain medication.
Q - What can I expect of the recovery after the tummy tuck?
Any discomfort that occurs after the tummy tuck can be managed with pain pills. Swelling is normal, and patients may be required to wear a support garment for a period of time. You will need to follow instructions for showering and changing your dressings for five to seven days, at which time the surface stitches will be removed. In general, patients with stronger abdominal muscles tend recovery faster. While the recovery period is longer for a tummy tuck than for many other cosmetic procedures, the rewards can be great for patients distressed by a protruding abdomen.
Q - When can I return to work after undergoing a tummy tuck?
Patients will need to wait at least two to four weeks before returning to work after their tummy tuck.
Q - When will my stitches be removed after my tummy tuck procedure?
Surface stitches are removed within five to seven days after the tummy tuck.
Q - What are the risks of tummy tuck surgery?
Potential complications associated with the tummy tuck may include anesthesia reactions, infection, bleeding, excessive scarring, and poor healing.
Q - Is the tummy tuck covered by insurance?
When surgeries are performed for medical reasons, such as excessive hooding of the upper eyelids, impaired vision, and breast reduction, insurance may cover part of the cost of the procedure. The tummy tuck is usually not covered by insurance. We will assist you in checking with your insurance carrier.
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