Making the decision to schedule any type of cosmetic surgery should not be taken lightly. If you’re like most patients, you’ve been mulling over the decision for a while. Part of you is excited but another part is wondering whether all the hype is true. So, why are tummy tucks still one of the most popular cosmetic procedures?
5 Reasons why people swear by Abdominoplasty
1. Reshapes your entire midsection
One of the first reasons why tummy tucks are still so popular is because they produce dramatic results, quickly. Abdominoplasty addresses several different concerns at the same time. Along with eliminating excess skin and fat, the abdominal muscles can be repaired too. This completely transforms the abdominal area, resulting in a shapelier appearance.
2. Results are long-lasting
Unless you gain a significant amount of weight, tummy tuck results are long-lasting. Excess skin and fat won’t return, and your muscles will stay firm if you adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Ageing will still have an effect, but it will be minor. If you still want to expand your family, rather postpone your tummy tuck.
3. The procedure can be customized
The fact that a tummy tuck can be tailored to suit your specific needs is another reason for its popularity. A full tummy tuck focuses on both the upper and lower abdomen. Excess skin and fat are removed and the abdominal wall is tightened. A mini tummy tuck is suited to patients who only want to address skin and fat below the belly button. There’s also the option of adding other procedures to your tummy tuck. According to A/Prof Magnusson, many patients choose to combine the procedure with a breast lift or reduction to create a shapelier figure. A tummy tuck is also a part of a mommy makeover.
4. Tumescent anesthesia can be used
While most surgeons use a general anesthetic, some also offer a local liquid anesthetic. Using a local anesthetic has the bonus of a quicker recovery. In most instances, a local anesthetic can only be used for a mini tummy tuck. The point is the option is there. A quicker recovery is one of the reasons why abdominoplasty continues to be popular.
5. Relieves back pain
Along with enhancing your profile, tummy tucks can also reduce discomfort. Many patients with a larger midsection experience back pain. Urinary incontinence can also be a side effect of extra weight in this area. A tummy tuck not only gives you better posture but a reduction in weight alleviates back pain. This is mainly because stronger core muscles help support your spine. After giving birth, women can experience incontinence. Once the core muscles are strengthened though, this effect can be reduced or eliminated. A number of studies have shown that abdominoplasty can have a positive impact on health and quality of life.
Tummy Tuck basics: What happens during your surgery
Once the anesthesia has been administered, a long incision is made from hip to hip. Placing the incision in this area ensures any scarring can easily be hidden. Next, liposuction is performed across the midsection, including the hip and pubic area. If need be, the abdominal muscles are repaired to create a stronger core. The final part of Dr. Gary Breslow’s procedure involves removing excess skin. In most instances, skin is removed above the belly button and down towards the pubic area.
A tummy tuck won’t completely eliminate stretch marks. However, it can remove some, if not most of them. The belly button will also need to be repositioned before the incisions are closed.
A dressing and compression garment will be applied before the patient is moved to a recovery room. There is also a chance that drains will be placed under the skin for a day or two. This will remove any excess fluid during your recovery.
Since this is a day procedure, you will only need to spend a few hours in recovery before being discharged. You will need someone to drive you home. This is due to the effects of the anesthetic and your restricted range of movement.
Recovery will be slightly different for everyone. Patients need to spend at least a week at home. Sometimes, two weeks are required. Sleeping in an elevated position will be more comfortable and reduce swelling. You can also support the abdominal area by placing pillows under your knees.
Patients are encouraged to walk around a day or two after surgery as this promotes healing. You will also be able to shower once your drains have been removed. Any strenuous activities can only be resumed after about 6 – 8 weeks. This is only if your surgeon has cleared you.
It’s easy to see why abdominoplasty continues to be a popular procedure.
