07 Feb Tummy Tuck Considerations: Things To Think About
Indeed, if you are considering having a tummy tuck, there are a few things that you should investigate and considerations that you should make. Mainly, just the term “tummy tuck” sounds incidental. It sounds like an easy alternative to being unhappy with the sagging belly fat that annoys you so much. However, better think again. A tummy tuck is an abdominoplasty, and that sounds a bit more serious.
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. In most cases, it also tightens weak abdominal muscles. This procedure creates a flatter, smoother and firmer tummy, and it works amazingly well. It is a very popular procedure, and when combined with breast augmentation and liposuction, it is called a “mommy makeover.” Patient’s post bariatric surgery also choose tummy tucks to rid themselves of the excess skin that remains after rapid weight loss.
Most patients are extremely satisfied after having their tummy tuck. But it is essential to remember that a tummy tuck is a major surgery, with all the things that go along with it. Hence, the reason why you need to ask questions.
Types Of Tummy Tucks
There are three types of tummy tucks:
1. Full involves an incision in the lower abdomen and a second incision around the navel.
2. Mini uses one smaller—a few inches—incision in the lower abdomen. This procedure is best when tummy issues are below the navel.
3. Extended or high lateral tension lengthens the incision to include the love handle or hip area.
Depending on the type of surgery, you may go home the same day, or you may stay a couple of days in the hospital. When you do return home, you will need another adult to care for you for several days afterward. This includes managing your medicines and surgical drains.
If you have small children, you will want assistance to help care for them for about two weeks. You also will need someone to help you around the house with chores and errands. You must avoid lifting, heavy house cleaning, and vacuuming for 4 to 6 weeks. This is significant downtime for anyone, so considerations have to be made for post op care.
Who Performs Tummy Tucks?
Both plastic surgeons and cosmetic surgeons perform tummy tucks. Plastic surgeons specialize in repairing physical defects. Their primary goal is to improve the appearance and function of body parts. Plastic surgeons use both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures to achieve the desired outcome.
A cosmetic surgeon focuses on aesthetic surgery—most procedures are elective and not medically necessary. A cosmetic surgeon performs many of the same surgeries as a plastic surgeon, but not all. A cosmetic surgeon’s education and training are not as extensive.
Possible Risks And Complications Of Tummy Tucks
As with any surgery, a tummy tuck has risks and potential complications. The general risks of any surgery include reactions to anesthesia, bleeding, blood clots, and infections.
The complications of a tummy tuck would include scarring, poor wound healing, persistent pain, and numbness or changes in skin sensation. There could be other risks related to your personal health history. Your surgeon should go over your health history and inform you of your possible risks.
Essential Questions Which Need answering Before Your Tummy Tuck
For a successful tummy tuck, you will want to find a highly qualified doctor. You should also consider the quality of care at the hospital or facility that you will go to. And, freely ask questions. It is your right. Possible questions you may want to be answered;
• How many tummy tucks and what types have you performed?
• What kind of results do you usually see? Do you have before and after pictures to share?
• At what hospital or facility do you perform the procedure?
• You should also review a doctor’s patient satisfaction scores. You can see what other patients say about the doctor and gauge what you might experience.
• Are you a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon?
Again, if you have decided that a tummy tuck is in your future, do your homework. And, remember that finding a well-trained, qualified surgeon is the first and most important step towards a safe and successful outcome.
Tummy Tuck Consultation with Dr. Shaun Parson
Come in for a private tummy tuck consultation, and you will meet the team of professionals at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery who can safely guide you through your procedure every step of the way. Please call 480-282-8386 today.