The Tummy Tuck helps patients lose excess skin, fatty tissue and even stretch marks that lie on the abdominal region. This procedure does not serve as a weight loss solution, nor does it provide permanent effects. The tummy tuck will provide results that last depending on the patient's ability to remain true to diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure
Full Tummy Tucks usually require more than one incision. In most cases, surgeons will begin by cutting from the naval, straight down until the incision reaches the pubic area. Another incision will be made spanning across the entire pubic region, often representing a half oval shape.
The incisions are fully opened, exposing the large majority of the abdominal muscle group; the skin folds are flipped toward the lower ribs. Next, surgeons will tie the vertical abdominal muscles closer together, which helps flatten the stomach altogether.
The skin folds are pulled down tightly. After stretching the skin down toward the pubic region, the skin is reattached. Surgeons remove the naval and trim away the excess fat the protrudes out of the hole. Before the skin folds are attached, tubes are inserted, allowing for proper fluid drainage.
Tummy Tuck Follow Up
The surgery will generally take a few hours' time, depending on the condition of the patient. The more fatty tissue that lies beneath the abdominal skin, the longer surgeons will need to properly treat the patient.
Patients will usually use a tight fitting garment that works to reduce swelling after the surgery concludes. This girdle type device sometimes remains on the patient for weeks at a time, though it can be removed during some portions of each day.
