Tummy Tuck – Important Information
Have you ever considered having a tummy tuck procedure? If so, was it after a significant weight loss? Or perhaps you were under the impression it was more of a weight loss surgery. Often times, when someone speaks with their doctor about this type of procedure they may not be aware of the fact that it is a major operation and as such, there are risks involved.
Another term for this surgery is abdominoplasty, where loose skin, and at times, skin that has stretch marks is removed. The abdominal muscles are usually tightened up with sutures as well. This results in a dramatic reduction of a protruding abdomen.
Of course, as with any surgery there is some swelling and pain. Depending on the extent of the surgery you may be discharged within a few hours, or remain in the hospital for several days. After surgery you will be encouraged to take a slow walk, however, it is likely that you will not be able to stand straight. Since the skin on the abdomen will be quite tight you will be instructed to remain bent over at around 45 degrees.
There will be drains placed in your body during the surgery to remove extra fluid. While the drains are in place, you will be on bed rest with a very small amount of walking. Approximately 4 days after the surgery you may begin to straighten up but your doctor will advise you to not overdo the movement. Remember, even though it is an elective surgery, it is still a major invasive surgery and recovery times will reflect this fact.
Your doctor may suggest an alternative to the full procedure if he feels that it would be more beneficial to you. This alternative, called a mini tummy tuck, is very similar to the original procedure but this one targets the lower abdomen only. There are, of course, other benefits to having this particular surgery, which is also known as a partial abdominoplasty. One benefit is the fact that it will take less time for the operation.
Some are under the impression that this method is the same as a liposuction procedure, but that is not the case. The major difference is that an abdominoplasty is performed to remove excess skin that has been stretched out, possibly after a substantial weight loss. Liposuction surgery is used to actually remove the fat.
Perhaps you just went through a major weight loss surgery and yet, it is not quite what you expected. You really didn’t think your skin was going to look as bad as it does, all stretched out and hanging around your mid section. Your doctor may recommend another procedure such as the tummy tuck. While it is an elective surgery it may be necessary in order to remove the excess skin and tighten up the muscles.
By Weight Loss Surgery Editor
