02 Jun What You Have to Know About Tummy Tucks
Last year over 1.5 million people got tummy tucks, making it (again) one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries around the world. It’s been in high demand at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center, too, especially among patients who have lost a lot of weight or who are post-partum. A tummy tuck removes excess skin from the belly area while also repairing stretched-out abdominal muscles. Many tummy tucks are also combined with liposuction to get rid of stubborn areas of fat as well as an umbilicoplasty (belly button surgery). It’s a complex cosmetic surgery and one that patients need to research before deciding to have performed.
A traditional abdominoplasty, which addresses the upper and lower abdomen, is the most common. Many variations are available within a traditional tummy tuck, including the mini tummy tuck that only addresses the lower part of the abdomen. A mini tummy tuck isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a good candidate then you can expect your recovery period and any discomfort to be lessened.
Is a Tummy Tuck for You?
Maybe. The ideal person for a tummy tuck is an adult in good health who is at a stable weight and doesn’t smoke or is willing to quit. Any potential cosmetic surgery patient should also have realistic expectations. Some patients aren’t sure if they should get liposuction, a tummy tuck, or both. Working with the “Top Doc” in Scottsdale ensures you have an expert on your side who will walk you through the benefits of various procedures and will only recommend a procedure that will yield the results you want. Liposuction removes fat while a tummy tuck removes excess skin and strengthens abdominal muscles—those are two very different procedures. However, you can see why they complement one another and are often performed together.
More and more men are also getting tummy tucks. Abdominoplasty isn’t just for women, even though it’s one of the most popular parts of a “mommy makeover.” Women are naturally more inclined towards sagging and stretched-out tummy skin after giving birth. However, our skin becomes lax and sags regardless of our sex or gender. It can be caused by weight fluctuations, age, or genetics. Many men who have lost a lot of weight, either the old-fashioned way or with a weight loss surgery, are frustrated when they realize they still don’t feel confident shirtless because of extra skin. Tummy tucks can fix this, and all tummy tuck incisions are hidden below the belt line.
Planning for Tummy Tuck Recovery
A full tummy tuck is a serious procedure, and patients need to plan accordingly. The usual recovery period is up to six weeks, and most people return to sedentary desk jobs after about 10 days. However, a full recovery that includes working out or other strenuous activities can easily take two months. Everyone is different, and it’s important to listen to your doctor and your body as you heal. A patient needs to be prepared to spend two full months recovering and up to two weeks being unable to work or perform many typical daily tasks. Having a “helper” during this time is essential for most patients.
It’s also important to bear in mind that compared to other cosmetic procedures, tummy tucks come with relatively high risks. Complications can arise, and the only way to reduce your risks and get the safe results you’re looking for is by working with a leading expert in the field. Dr. Parson has been voted “Top Doc” in Scottsdale by his peers, which means that fellow surgeons who also perform tummy tucks consider Dr. Parson the best in the region. Surgery is no time to skimp on skill and expertise, and there can be only one Top Doc in the area.
Is a tummy tuck for you? There’s only one way to find out. Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals, your lifestyle, and the kind of results you want and expect. Contact Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center at (480) 282-8386 and book your consultation with Dr. Parson.