Following pregnancy or weight loss, many individuals experience excess sagging skin and fat deposits on the abdomen. An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can help to remove this excess skin and fat, as well as tighten weakened abdominal muscles for an improved abdominal contour.
What is an Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen and around the hips to improve the look and feel of the waistline. Many different life factors, including pregnancy and extreme weight fluctuations, can cause the abdominal walls to weaken and can cause excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen. A tummy tuck can tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall and reduce a bulging abdomen for a slimmer body silhouette and firmer midsection.
Following pregnancy or weight loss, many individuals experience excess sagging skin and fat deposits on the abdomen. An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, can help to remove this excess skin and fat, as well as tighten weakened abdominal muscles for an improved abdominal contour.
What is an Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen and around the hips to improve the look and feel of the waistline. Many different life factors, including pregnancy and extreme weight fluctuations, can cause the abdominal walls to weaken and can cause excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen. A tummy tuck can tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall and reduce a bulging abdomen for a slimmer body silhouette and firmer midsection.
The Full Tummy Tuck Procedure
There are two types of tummy tuck incisions that can be performed. These are a full abdominoplasty and a mini tummy tuck. A traditional full abdominoplasty/tummy tuck usually requires 2-3 hours to perform. An incision is made above the pubic region and extends from hip to hip. Another incision is made around the umbilicus (belly button). The skin and fat are lifted off the abdominal wall and pulled taut over the incision site. Any excess fatty tissue or skin is removed and often the abdominal muscles are tightened.
A mini tummy tuck is often done for individuals with minimal excess skin and fat, and usually requires 1-2 hours to perform. The incision for this may be shorter than the full abdominoplasty, although it is not able to remove as much loose skin from the region as a full procedure would be able to. A consultation with Dr. Golosow at Associates in Cosmetic Surgery is always the best way to find out which procedure may be best for you.
Recovery From Tummy Tuck Surgery
Following a tummy tuck procedure, you will be placed in bandages and a compression garment to control swelling. This garment should be worn for several weeks during recovery. Any discomfort can be controlled with pain medication. Patients should avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks after surgery. Those who undergo a traditional tummy tuck will have a longer recovery period and slightly larger or more visible tummy tuck scar than those who underwent a mini tummy tuck.
If you have been considering cosmetic surgery near Ft. Myers, please contact Associates in Cosmetic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Dr. Golosow.
