Excess fat in your abdominal area can be frustrating. No matter how much you work out or how much you control your diet, stubborn fat just won’t go away. Excess fat, drooping muscles, and loose skin in your abdominal area can negatively affect your self-image and self-confidence.
Fortunately, there is an effective solution that can help you achieve a toned and sculpted abdomen, giving you a much more aesthetically appealing appearance. Read on to find out more about the tummy tuck, including what the procedure is like and who can benefit most from it.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgical procedures in the world. It can be used to resolve a wide variety of cosmetic and aesthetic issues related to the abdominal area, addressing excess fat, drooping muscles, and excess skin to produce a more toned and sculpted look.
What Is the Tummy-Tuck Procedure Like?
The tummy-tuck procedure takes about two to five hours to perform. It is important to note that every surgery is unique and depends on the results that each patient wishes to achieve and on their current condition.
An incision is made from hipbone to hipbone, through which Dr. Morwood can access the tissues to tighten them or remove them as needed. Internal sutures are used to tighten and rejoin the stretched abdominal muscles. The bellybutton is repositioned to match the new structure and appearance of the abdomen.
Dr. Morwood may place a small thin tube in the region to help drain any excess fluids that collect. You will be under general anesthesia for the entirety of the surgery.
What Is Recovery Like?
Since it’s a major surgery, the tummy tuck requires a recovery and healing period afterwards. The area that was operated on will be covered with a surgical dressing.
Patients need to wear an abdominal binder for a time, which will provide support and help control swelling. Mild swelling and bruising are normal and to be expected, and they will ameliorate after six weeks. Patients may also experience temporary discomfort, which can be treated with medication.
Make sure that you avoid strenuous physical activities for about two months after surgery, as this may affect your recovery. In addition, make sure that you avoid bending and other movements that could put pressure on your waist and abdomen.
Who Can Benefit from a Tummy Tuck?
If you identify with any of the following, then you may be an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck:
• You want to get in better shape after childbirth.
• You are not satisfied with the appearance of your abdomen and want a flatter, more toned appearance.
• You have realistic expectations from the procedure.
Want to Learn More About the Tummy Tuck?
Dr. Morwood has over 20 years’ experience as a plastic surgeon, he is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, he is a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and for years he has served as either the chief or vice chief of the Division of Plastic Surgery of Monterey.
For more information about Dr. Morwood or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us here.
View Before & After Photos
*Actual Patient
Disclaimer: there is no guarantee of specific results and the results can vary.
