The little pocket of fat that hangs around our midriff can be extremely frustrating and stubborn. For many of us, no matter how rigorously we watch our diet, however we strive to maintain a healthy diet and no matter how many hours we spend sweaty and panting at the gym, the tenacious fat that clings to our tummies refuses to budge.
Many may consider an abdominoplasty (commonly known as a tummy tuck) a neat way of circumventing all that worry and frustration. However, as with any elective surgery, it needs to be carefully considered. That’s why we strongly recommend that you contact us to arrange a consultation with an expert. We also advise all patients to ensure that you are as well informed as possible before considering such a procedure. Here we’ll give you some important facts to help you make an informed decision for yourself.
What is a tummy tuck?
Simply put, a tummy tuck is a removal of the excess fat and skin that can accumulate in the abdominal area. In most cases it also requires the restoration of weakened or separated muscles in the abdomen.
This makes for a smaller, flatter, and smoother abdominal profile.
What are the benefits and advantages of a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck liberates you from the frustration of shifting body fat and loose skin that no amount of dieting or exercises seems to be able to shift. You get to enjoy a sleeker, slimmer, and smoother profile and a trimmer waistline.
But there are also a range of less obvious benefits. It can reduce back pain caused by a weakening of your core muscles. It can reduce the urinary incontinence many women experience in childbirth or aging. It can even correct ventral hernias which can protrude through an opening in the muscles of your abdominal wall.
Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Any cosmetic surgeon worth their salt will tell you that a tummy tuck is no substitute for regular exercise or a healthy balanced diet. However, if you have tried diligently yet still experienced excessive fat and/or looseness in the belly despite seeing great results elsewhere, you may be an excellent candidate for a tummy tuck.
What to expect during and after treatment
A tummy tuck is a relatively simple procedure lasting around 1-2 hours. The procedure itself is as follows:
- The patient is given a choice of local or general anaesthesia.
- A horizontal incision is made between the pubic hairline and belly button.
- Once the skin of the abdomen is lifted, the underlying abdominal muscles are repaired.
- The upper abdominal skin is pulled down, excess skin is trimmed, and the remaining skin is sutured together.
- A new belly button is created.
- The incisions are closed.
After the procedure everyone experiences recovery slightly differently. Needless to say, you will need to give your body the time it needs to heal. You will not be able to drive for 2-3 weeks or to exercise or do anything strenuous for at least 6 weeks.
We do not recommend smoking or drinking alcohol while you recover.
What results can you expect?
You should be able to see the results within 6 months. By this time the swelling will have gone down and scar tissue will be less livid. All that remains is to enjoy the firmer, flatter tummy you deserve!
If you think you might be a suitable candidate for a tummy tuck get in touch with us today to arrange a consultation.
We look forward to helping you make your dreams come true!
