A plastic tummy tuck is an advanced cosmetic surgery procedure that can restore and enhance the outward appearance of your tummy. Also called abdominoplasty, this procedure cuts away the loose, sagging skin around your abdomen and stretches the remaining skin around it. This results in a well-defined, wrinkle-free midriff. In a year, over 80,000 patients, both men and women, undertake this procedure so that they can look fitter and more attractive.
Initial Consultation and Procedure Steps
The process begins with consultation where a surgeon or cosmetic physician assesses the condition of the skin, fat, and muscles on your abdomen. Once the surgeon knows what areas he will be working on, the abdominoplasty can begin.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision across the lower abdomen in what most people refer to as the bikini area. For some patients, the endoscopic technique can be used, a method in which the surgeon uses minimal incisions.
In either case, excess skin is cut away and fat deposits are suctioned out via liposuction or tumescent liposuction. Once that is completed any incisions are closed up and the patient is prescribed a period for recovery.
Some of the more extensive tummy tucks will require the surgeon to put drainage tubes under your abdominal flap. These are essential in completing the surgery and will be removed in the outpatient office after about ten to fourteen days.
Benefits of a Plastic Tummy Tuck
Aside from removing the sagging and wrinkles of your stomach skin, a plastic tummy tuck can also benefit your health. This is mostly in relation with the strength of your abdominal muscles.
The effects of rapid weight loss due to pregnancy or dieting often weaken your abdomen. Age also does this, although at a much slower rate. An abdominoplasty can tighten your weakened muscles, making your abdomen is less susceptible to pain and injury.
Of course, not all tummy tucks are that drastic. If you only need to get rid of a small amount of sagging skin, you can opt for a mini or partial tummy tuck. This particular procedure involves less surgery, which means faster recovery time, but forgoes the benefit of strengthening the abdominal wall.
Considerations for a Tummy Tuck
As with all surgeries, a plastic tummy tuck involves a certain amount of discomfort. Most patients will have swelling and bruising during the first few days after the operation.
The patient must recover for at least ten days in which they cannot work, drive, or engage in any strenuous activities. The patient is also prohibited from exercising for an entire month.
There are some special considerations for a tummy tuck. For example, women are advised to wait until after childbearing age as birthing undoes all the effects of abdominoplasty. Smokers have a higher risk of complications in surgery, so they are advised to quit the habit beforehand.
Considering all that information, a plastic tummy tuck may sound a bit complicated. But you should remember that it’s worth all that trouble as the end result is a flatter, tighter tummy that you’ll just love to flaunt.
Cost and Financing Options for Abdominoplasty
The average cost of a tummy tuck varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and geographic location. In the United States, tummy tuck costs can range from $6,000 to $12,000.
Because abdominoplasty is considered a cosmetic procedure, most insurance plans do not cover it. However, many plastic surgery clinics offer flexible financing options or partner with third-party financing companies to make the procedure more accessible.
When searching online, terms like “affordable tummy tuck payment plans” or “cost of abdominoplasty near me” are commonly used by prospective patients.
Results and Maintenance for Tummy Tuck
A successful tummy tuck can provide long-lasting results, especially when paired with a healthy lifestyle. Patients who maintain a stable weight through balanced diet and regular exercise can enjoy a flatter and firmer abdomen for many years.
While the results are technically permanent, factors like pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations can stretch the skin and muscles again, potentially diminishing the benefits of the procedure.
For this reason, many surgeons recommend that patients commit to long-term fitness goals before undergoing abdominoplasty to maximize and preserve their results.