A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure aimed at the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal region. This cosmetic surgery procedure may also be performed to restore the integrity of separated or weakened abdominal muscles resulting in a smooth and firm abdominal profile. Several factors may contribute to changes in the abdominal profile leading to an individual seeking a tummy tuck procedure. The main questions most people often ask is, “when is it time to get a tummy tuck and are there specific instances when the procedure may or may not work?” Are you a good tummy tuck candidate? This article aims to demystify tummy tuck surgeries, hopefully enlighten potential candidates about the procedure and create a guideline of sorts.
Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure to remove excess fat and skin from the lower and mid abdomen. The procedure is also done to correct deformities present in the abdominal muscles. This procedure yields dramatic and noticeable results. This explains why most people favor the Cosmetic procedure. Individuals with relatively normal weights and body proportions may develop a less than desirable mid-section due to some factors that may include;
- Pregnancy
- Fluctuations in body weight
- Previous surgical procedures
- Genetics
Tummy tucks effectively address and correct the effects weighed on the abdomen by the above conditions. The results are permanent. If performed well by a qualified professional, scarring is minimal or can be avoided to a large extent.
DO YOU REALLY NEED A TUMMY TUCK?
It is important to be well aware of alternative methods of getting rid of the excess fat around the midsection. Good old fashioned exercise naturally burns excess fat from your body. Most people lack the patience and drive to observe a routine workout regime due to the fact that it takes a while before any noticeable results are observed. Another alternative is liposuction.
Liposuction reshapes and “slims” some areas of the human body by removing excessive fat deposits. To individuals concerned with extra pounds of fat on the abdomen, this cosmetic procedure is very effective.
However, there are instances when working out routinely will not get rid of the extra bulge on the abdomen. Individuals with excess fat and/or skin on the abdominal area that doesn’t show any response to dietary changes and exercise are considered the perfect candidates for tummy tuck procedures. This primarily because of muscle distension that typically weakens the abdominal muscles.
Most people fail to realize that tummy tuck surgeries are major operations done under anesthesia and could last up to five hours. The procedure itself involves separating the skin from the underlying tissue and cutting away any excess fat below the umbilicus or skin. In the case of weakened abdominal muscle, the cosmetic surgeon folds and sews together the muscles along the weak central ridge. Further contouring is done and the end result is a flat well-trimmed tummy. Take note that like most major surgeries, this procedure takes several weeks to heal and the risk of infection is factored in. Scarring is also fairly common after abdominoplasty surgeries.
In conclusion, before settling on a tummy tuck, consider other options. Review the cause of the extra bulge around your waist or on your abdomen. At the same, note that tummy tuck procedures essentially take off an average of ten pounds of fat. The advantage to this procedure however is that after a couple of recovery weeks, your tummy will look as great as you wanted. It is advisable to seek a professional opinion first before deciding whether or not to go under the knife.
Dr. Gregory H. Croll is the owner of his own practice, and the leading doctor for tummy tucks in Columbia, MO.