Weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and the natural aging effects can cause saggy skin and accumulation of fat in your belly. Unfortunately for most people, maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine proves to be unsuccessful at restoring the tauter, more curvaceous waist of their youth. The abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to sculpt the waistline and smooth the stomach. If you are considering East Windsor tummy tuck, it is best to do some research to understand the procedure.
As with any surgical procedure, a prospective patient should know the potential positives and risks of the procedure so that they can make an informed decision. Although tummy tuck surgery benefits many women and men, there are possible complications and stringent recovery requirements to consider. Below are four facts to consider before committing to the abdominoplasty procedure.
A tummy tuck is not meant for weight loss
Abdominoplasty is designed to remove excess skin and fat around your belly; therefore, you will experience some weight loss. For most people, the amount is usually below five pounds. You will also experience a decrease in the size of your clothes since your tummy is now smaller and tighter. However, a tummy tuck is not a replacement for weight loss; good candidates must be within 10-15 pounds of their desired weight. It also helps if you have maintained the weight at least six months before surgery; stability will help you achieve optimal and sustainable results.
The procedure leaves a permanent scar
Although a tummy tuck produces dramatic body contouring, the incision leaves a scar along your abdomen. The scar from a tummy tuck runs along the horizontal incision line, stretching from one hip to the other, just above your pubic bone. Over time, the scar fades a bit, but it will still be visible for many years. A skilled surgeon will carefully place the scar you can easily cover with your underwear or bathing suit.
You will have surgical drains for the first week or two
You will have drains in place to eliminate a buildup of blood or other fluids. This keeps the swelling down and ensures proper healing. Surgical drains are temporary, but they require attention and care. Before surgery, your surgeon will discuss the need for drains and how to care for them.
Healing takes time
You will not immediately boast the benefits of a tummy tuck; it is common to have redness, swelling, bruising, and stiffness for the first few weeks after surgery. These side effects slowly resolve over the next four to six weeks, and the results start to appear. However, residual swelling can take longer to subside, about six months. It is also normal to experience temporary numbness or loss of sensation along the incision line; this will resolve slowly. You may start feeling close to your old self a few months after the procedure, but it can take a whole year for the stomach to heal and for surgery results to become noticeable.
If you are thinking about a tummy tuck, consult your surgeon at Matthew J. Lynch, MD, to learn the ins and outs of the procedure.
