Tummy Tuck
Tummy tucks aka abdominoplasty, is one of the most famous cosmetic surgeries whose main purpose is to improve the aesthetics of the abdominal area. Abdominoplasty entails the excision of loose skin and fatty tissues, as well as the reinforcement of lax muscles to sharpen the contours of the abdomen
Types of Abdominoplasty
Full Tummy Tuck
It entails a transverse cut from the pubes hair line to the umbilicus. The surgeon then sutures the area to reinforce the muscles which have been split, trims off extra skin, and positions the navel appropriately. The benefits of this procedure are apparent for those who suffer from considerable skin redundancy and muscle sagging.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck is recommended for people that have lesser skin and fat accumulation below the belly button. This procedure takes lesser time and it doesn’t entail relocating the naval to another position. This is because it mainly addresses the lower abdominal area and therefore is a minimally invasive modality that can be completed in less time as compared to the other surgical operations.
Extended Tummy Tuck
The extended tummy tuck incorporates the excision of the loose skin and fat in the abdominal area, hips, and back. This procedure is especially recommended for people who have gone through weight reduction procedures which results in excess skin in most regions of the body. It is easier to make the incision to go around the flanks thus providing a comprehensive body contouring
Candidates for Abdominoplasty
The best candidates for this surgery are those who are close to their ideal weight, non-smokers, and have a realistic perception of the results of the surgery. This procedure is most advisable for clients who have excess abdominal skin and muscle needing fixing due to aging, pregnancy and drastic weight changes
The Surgical Procedure
Pre-Operative Preparations
It is highly advisable for any person planning to have Abdominoplasty to make an initial appointment with his or her plastic surgeon. This includes a medical check up as well as consultations just before and during the surgery. Depending on your overall cardiovascular health, the doctor may want to perform tests prior to the surgery, you may need to stop smoking, avoid certain medicines etc.
Surgical Steps
The process is initiated with an anesthetic to help ease your discomfort. The surgeon also access the required areas, pulls the muscles tightly, trims off the extra skin, and eliminates the fat deposits. The incisions are then closed with sutures, and you are then moved to a recovery area for monitoring
Post-Operative Care
As for postoperative instructions, it will be necessary to wear compression garments in order to reduce swelling of the abdominal wall muscles and to contribute to their faster return to their initial state. This involves the management of pain, time and frequency of attendance at the surgeon’s clinic or hospital. Compliance with the recommendations post-surgery is also essential in achieving the best outcomes.
Recovery Process
Initial Recovery Period
The first stage of rehabilitation normally takes 2-4 weeks, thus it is normal for one to experience some level of pain and discomfort. Activity restrictions are required in order to prevent the injury from getting worse. The patient should ensure to adhere to the post-surgery recommendations given by the surgeon and attend all the follow-up appointments.
Long-Term Recovery
Recovery can sometimes take even months, so after the treatment a patient should be ready for longer healing time. The complication of scar healing and management is one among the multiple factors that are considered in the long-term outcomes of patients. To encourage the healing process and to ensure that the new abdomen shape is retained, the patient should gradually resume his/her normal activities, and this includes some form of exercise.
Potential Complications
They also have those risks associated with any type of surgery which include: Infections, Hemorrhage, and impaired coagulation. Speaking with your surgeon immediately is important to let him/her know that you have these warning signs present
Benefits of Abdominoplasty
Aesthetic Improvements
It is a procedure that gives excellent result which entails flattening of the abdomen and improvement of body shape. Losing or reducing body fat, eradicating excess skin and tightening the muscles will transform your physical appearance significantly.
Functional Benefits
A contraction of the abdominal muscles can help in postural issues and also serve to relieve low back pain. It also helps some patients to reduce stress urinary incontinence.
Psychological Benefits
Positive self-images and greater self- esteem are some of the psychological advantages of abdominoplasty. Patients are usually more relaxed and a lot of them are happy with the new look they have by the end of the procedure.
Choosing a Qualified Surgeon
Choosing the right qualified surgeon from reputed clinic such as Mahendra Hair Transplant & Skin Clinic is crucial in determining a successful procedure in an Abdominoplasty. Consider board certification, experience and patient feedback. This will assist you to be comfortable with your chosen surgeon this makes everyone comfortable and confident with his or her surgeon.
Cost and Financing
Factors Influencing Cost
The cost of Abdominoplasty depends on the following factors; location, the surgeon treating the patient, and the facility charges. The best way to get a deeper insight into the prices you’ll be paying is during your consultation, make sure you get a breakdown of the amount you’re expected to pay.
Insurance Coverage
For the most part, tummy tuck is an elective procedure which means it is not generally included under insurance. However, if the surgery is required for medical purposes like hernias or functionality concerns, then some reimbursement may be granted.
Financing Options
Most surgeons provide different means of payment that will make the process of going through Abdominoplasty easier financially. It is also possible to make payments is installments or take a Medical payment plan which may ease the burden of the procedure.
Conclusion
Tummy tuck or Abdominoplasty has several advantages that are aesthetical, ergonomical and psycho-somatological. Understanding the different procedures, recovery phase, advantages and disadvantages of the surgery will help you decide if this is something you need. It is highly recommended to consult a certified plastic surgeon on your current situation and desires in relation to the improvement of the abdominal area.
