Everything You Need To Know Before A Tummy Tuck
Are you battling stubborn belly fat that just won't go away? If you don't see any improvement after strict dieting and exercise it may be time to explore other avenues to make you feel beautiful and confident once again. Researching the before and after-effects of a tummy tuck can be overwhelming, so we've compiled this simple guide with all the important facts.
What Is A Tummy Tuck?
Also referred to as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower regions of the abdomen. If necessary, liposuction can also be performed to remove excess fat from the upper abdomen and flanks. Plication (tightening) of weakened or separated abdominal muscles may be necessary to optimize the overall results of the procedure. The results typically yield a flatter stomach after the healing process.
Tummy tucks are one of the most popular surgical procedures, as both women and men are opting to remove stubborn belly fat. We typically see a lot of mothers interested in this treatment because childbirth can weaken the stomach muscles, and create pockets of fat that are difficult to get rid of. Many patients are stunned by the dramatic before and after-effects of a tummy tuck and are more comfortable with their bodies afterward.
Who Is The Ideal Candidate?
Most adults are ideal candidates, although the patient's weight must remain stable for six months prior to surgery for optimal aesthetic results. We also suggest quitting smoking just to avoid complications down the line.
Scarring
A complete abdominoplasty requires a horizontally-oriented incision to be made just above the pubic hairline. The length of the incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin that needs to be excised. A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin from the upper abdomen.
The scars tend to be a little red and slightly raised for the first 4-6 weeks, but it eventually fades and lies beneath the underwear or bathing suit line, meaning it's virtually invisible. The scars will flatten and become paler over time and can take up to 12 months before achieving their final appearance. We provide our patients with a prescription for silicone ointment or silicone patches to help diminish the appearance of the scar.
Recovery
The procedure takes between two to four hours, and the patient's monitored for an hour or two afterward. They're typically discharged and can go home that very same day. Expect to be a little tired and tender during the first couple of weeks, as your body will need a bit of time to heal in order to see the before and after-effects.
In most cases, the surgeon will attach two small drains to the abdomen, which help remove excess fluid beneath the skin. These drains are painless and are removed by a nurse a week after the operation.
We suggest booking a week off of work, as most patients can return to the office with ease. Though sporting activities should be avoided for 6-8 weeks post-operatively, patients are encouraged to walk as soon as possible following surgery.
Before And After Results
The full before and after results of the tummy tuck is visible about four to six months after the operation; your stomach will be noticeably flatter, and your clothes will fit more comfortably. If you're interested in learning more about this procedure, contact Dr. James Lee for a consultation. As one of the leading plastic surgeons in the Montreal area, Dr. Lee can tackle any case and create your dream body.
