The use of cosmetic surgery in order to look good and feel good about themselves is a non-issue for people these days.
There are many cosmetic operations available today, and Abdominoplasty, or “tummy tuck” happens to be among the popular options.
In the year 2023 alone, nearly 117,000 people have undergone the tummy tuck procedure, making it one of the five most commonly performed surgical cosmetic procedures.
However-just like any surgery-a complete, continuous recovery time is needed, usually between one to four weeks, with a good amount of that time spent off from work. A time out from work is needed during this recovery period, and physical exertion as well as smoking is highly discouraged.
It will be another five more months before total recovery, and it usually takes between three to six months for the wound to fully heal. This is not taking into consideration the inherent risks of undergoing a surgical tummy tuck operation, not to mention the logistics of pre and post operation preparations.
For those who are having second thoughts about Abdominoplasty and all its disadvantages, the “awake tummy tuck” just might give them a whiff of fresh air. As the name would suggest, patients undergoing the Awake Tummy Tuck remain awake for the entire operation without feeling any pain.
Tumescent anesthesia is given to the patient, after which, no other additional anesthesia is usually needed. This local anesthesia tummy tuck is used in lieu of using general anesthesia in a conventional Abdominoplasty procedure. Without the general anesthetic to “knock them out”, patients remain aware and awake for the entire operation, all while feeling no pain at all.
The Awake Tummy Tuck has many variations. VASER liposuction is often used alongside Awake Tummy Tuck procedures. The other method is to use Zerona laser, which uses laser light instead of ultra-sonic waves to liquefy fatty tissues, or SmartLipo/SmartLipo with Aspiration.
Among the benefits of the awake tummy tuck is a significantly reduced recovery time, which cuts back the normal two to four weeks into just a matter of days. Skin removal is also circumvented; hence, scarring is kept to a minimum.
However, people should be made aware that Awake Tummy Tuck, or any other Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for proper weight loss, as only properly screened and approved people are eligible for the Awake Tummy Tuck procedure. Contact your local cosmetic surgeon who would be more than happy to inform you what the criteria are for having the Awake Tummy Tuck procedure.
How Does the Awake Tummy Tuck Compare to Traditional Abdominoplasty?
The Awake Tummy Tuck offers a less invasive alternative to traditional abdominoplasty, making it an appealing option for patients who want to tighten and contour their midsection with minimal downtime.
Unlike the traditional tummy tuck, which requires general anesthesia and extended recovery, the awake method relies on tumescent anesthesia, allowing patients to remain fully conscious yet pain-free during the procedure.
Additionally, the Awake Tummy Tuck is often combined with VASER liposuction or laser-assisted fat removal, which helps sculpt the abdomen while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
This approach results in less swelling, reduced scarring, and a much faster recovery time compared to conventional abdominoplasty.
Who Is a Good Candidate for an Awake Tummy Tuck?
Not everyone is an ideal candidate for an Awake Tummy Tuck. This procedure is best suited for patients with mild to moderate excess fat and loose skin in the abdominal area, rather than those requiring significant muscle repair or extensive skin removal.
Individuals who maintain a stable weight, have good skin elasticity, and are in overall good health will experience the best results. However, if a patient has severe muscle separation (diastasis recti) or excessive loose skin due to major weight loss or pregnancy, a full abdominoplasty may be the better choice.
Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon ensures that the patient selects the most effective procedure for their specific body type and goals.
Safety Considerations and Choosing the Right Surgeon
Although the Awake Tummy Tuck boasts a quicker recovery and fewer complications associated with general anesthesia, patients must ensure their surgeon is highly experienced in performing the procedure.
Not all cosmetic surgeons are qualified to administer awake abdominoplasty, and choosing an inexperienced provider could lead to unsatisfactory results or unnecessary risks. Before undergoing surgery, patients should verify their surgeon’s credentials through the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and request to see before-and-after results from previous awake tummy tuck procedures.
By selecting a highly skilled plastic surgeon, patients can maximize their safety, comfort, and aesthetic results while benefiting from this innovative approach to body contouring.