A tummy tuck (also called abdominoplasty) is intended to remove sagging skin around the belly caused by a lifetime of changing body shapes and a weakening of the connective tissue that gives young skin a taut appearance. Removing this skin gives a firmer, flatter appearance to the abdominal region. Due to the nature of this procedure, anyone who may experience a large body-shape change in the future by changing their weight significantly or getting pregnant may want to postpone their surgery until such a time as they have a stable body future planned.
The abdominoplasty procedure should not be taken lightly, as it is a major surgical procedure. The extent of the surgery being performed on a patient determines how long the procedure lasts, but typically a surgery will range from two to five hours. An incision in the shape of a “W” is made in the lower abdomen from hipbone to hipbone. The surgeon then tightens the abdominal muscles by stitching them into a new position, then reattaches the skin while removing any excess. This results in a firm abdomen without sagging or folding excesses of skin.
For patients with especially extensive procedures, you may require hospitalization. Most patients however are able to go home the day of the surgery in the care of family or friends. Stitches will be removed over the course of three weeks following the surgery so that the underlying muscles can fully heal and do not return to their old locations. Depending on the individual patient, the extent of the surgery, and how you heal, you may be able to return to work in anywhere from ten days to four weeks. While healing, moderate exercise (not painful or vigorous) must be done to aid in healing and to prevent blood clots or overly-tight muscles from developing. Scars will form along the lines of the incisions, but they are typically not visible under clothing or bathing suits; your scars may take up to nine months to fully heal, so don’t panic if they seems excessively noticeable in the first three to six months as this is normal.
As with many cosmetic procedures, the extent of the surgery is unique to each individual and you will need to meet with Dr. Ziesmann for a consultation about your needs. This meeting can also give you some idea of how great a case you are presenting and you will be advised of more precise times for expected surgery length and healing based on your specific state. To answer all of your questions and receive personalized answers, please contact our offices to schedule a consult with Dr. Ziesmann.
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