Although tummy tuck surgery has become one of the most widely performed plastic surgery procedures in the United States, it is still an invasive surgical procedure and should never be taken lightly.
When preparing for a tummy tuck, there are many considerations both before and after the surgery that will help ensure a positive experience and an even better aesthetic outcome.
Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is a body contouring procedure that overhauls the abdominal area by trimming excess skin, removing excess fat, and tightening rectus muscles (often stretched or separated after pregnancy or significant weight loss).
Let’s discuss some of the finer points of preparation, procedure, and what to expect afterward.
What to Consider Before Tummy Tuck Surgery
Always make sure that your provider is a skilled and licensed plastic surgeon. The best plastic surgeons are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS). This certification ensures that they have the proper training, experience, knowledge, and ethical stands necessary to perform a safe and results-driven operation.
Don’t be afraid to ask them any questions about how the procedure is performed or what you can expect from it. Think of your consultation as a two-way street. Sure, your surgeon will take the time to make sure that you are the right candidate; however, this is also your chance to interview your surgeon to make sure you are comfortable with your chosen surgeon and the procedure.
Some common questions include:
- What should I do before having the surgery done?
- How is the surgery performed?
- How long does the recovery process take?
- What activities will I be able to do right after the surgery?
- How experienced are you with tummy tuck surgery?
A tummy tuck is usually an outpatient process, and the individual is free to return home the evening of the surgery. Other matters pertaining to actual healing time and the ability to return to normal activities will depend upon the patient.
What Are the Top Reasons for Abdominoplasty?
The reasons for a tummy tuck will vary from person to person.
While some consider this procedure after multiple pregnancies, others do so after significant weight loss. And, still, some patients are simply frustrated about not seeing results from their diligent gym routines. Tummy tuck surgery is also an effective way to treat umbilical hernias and stress urinary incontinence.
Whatever your reason, tummy tuck surgery will leave you with a tighter, slimmer, and firmer abdominal contour.
What Will Your Tummy Tuck Cost?
As with most plastic surgery procedures, tummy tuck surgery costs are of high importance to many. Most plastic surgery procedures are elective, meaning that insurance will not cover the costs.
Because of that, you are left paying out of pocket.
Unfortunately, there is no way to determine the exact cost of your tummy tuck before your surgeon has a chance to evaluate you. Therefore, a consultation is needed to estimate your final tummy tuck price.
How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
During a tummy tuck, an incision is made from hipbone to hipbone (in a standard abdominoplasty) just above the pubic line. The low placement of this incision makes it easy to conceal with clothing and bathing suits.
A second incision is sometimes made around the navel should additional fatty deposits need to be exhumed.
Once the unnecessary tissue is removed, the skin is redraped over the abdomen and sewn back in place.
When the process is over, your surgeon will further discuss the outcome of your surgery, where you will be instructed on how to care for yourself, how to bathe, and whatever other instructions might fit your recovery.
