Tummy Tuck
What is it?For who?
The surgery
The risks
The costs
Abdominoplasty or "tummy tuck," is a surgical procedure carried out to remove the excess wrinkled skin and fatty tissue from the abdomen and to tighten abdominal muscles. The overall effect is to produce a smoother, flatter tummy.
The procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen. But bear in mind, it does produce a permanent scar, which, depending on the extent of the original problem and the surgery required to correct it, can extend from hip to hip.
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The best candidate for this surgery has relatively normal weight, weak muscles and excess skin. Patients who are considerably overweight are less ideal candidates for the operation and may be advised to lose weight prior to surgery. Age and skin tone have a lot to do with the level of improvement the patient may expect.
The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.
Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery. Also, women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy.
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The operation is usually carried out under general anesthesia and may be performed in a hospital or outpatient facility. Some surgeons use local anesthesia, combined with a sedative.
An incision is usually made across the lower abdomen and the skin is lifted upward toward the rib cage, saving the belly button by freeing it from the skin. The abdominal muscles are then tightened. The excess skin, which has been pulled down by the surgeon, is removed. The surgeon makes a small opening, creating a new navel where the old one had been. The incision is then sutured closed. Firm elastic dressings are applied.
In certain cases, a less extensive operation may be possible. In partial abdominoplasty, the skin is separated only between the incision line and the navel. This skin flap is stretched down, the excess is removed, and the flap is stitched back into place.
Complete abdominoplasty usually takes two to five hours, depending on the extent of work required. Partial abdominoplasty may take an hour or two.
For the first few days, the patient's abdomen will probably be swollen and he or she is likely to feel some pain and discomfort which can be controlled by medication.
Surface stitches will be removed in five to seven days, and deeper sutures, with ends that protrude through the skin, will come out in two to three weeks.
Exercise will help to heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided.
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There are always risks associated with surgery and specific complications associated with this procedure. Post-operative complications such as infection and blood clots are rare, but can occur. Infection can be treated with drainage and antibiotics, but will prolong your hospital stay.
Poor healing, which results in conspicuous scars, may necessitate a second operation. Smokers should be advised to stop, as smoking may increase the risk of complications and delay healing.
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Fees vary from one geographic area to another. In some cases, insurance may cover the cost of abdominoplasty when the problem is considered functional. A tummy tuck will cost around $4000.
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