Tummy Tuck Procedure: Banishing Belly Insecurities with Cosmetic Surgery

The belly muscles are similar to suspenders in a person who gains weight. Excessive weight gain will cause the suspenders to drift far to the sides. In the body, this happens as the abdominal muscles are pushed to the sides and lose their tone. This typically happens as a result of pregnancy and rapid weight gain. The result is hanging skin around the midsection. Many people opt for tummy tucks, also called abdominoplasty, to restore a smooth belly.

The Procedure
After massive weight loss, there is often a large amount of extra skin. (If requested, liposuction of the flanks is performed during an abdominoplasty.) During a tummy tuck procedure, the skin of the belly is lifted to expose the muscles. In most cases, the skin between the belly button and pubis is removed. The abdominal muscles are then sewn together to restore their original positioning. Contrary to popular belief, the belly button is not removed. Instead, the skin slides over it and a cut is made to slide the navel through.

Mini Abdominoplasty
If there is only muscle bulge below the belly button, then a mini abdominoplasty may be an option. The mini tummy tuck only tightens the muscle below the belly button. This operation requires a smaller incision and less skin removal.

Recovery
Tummy tucks have a high risk of bleeding. For this reason, the tummy tuck is not often combined with other large procedures. Following the procedure you will be required to wear a tight girdle-like garment for about two weeks. This will help to reduce bleeding and swelling of the area while also providing you with an idea of what your improved shape will look like.

In addition, activity will be limited for one month following the procedure. All patients temporarily loose sensation in their lower abdomen following a tummy tuck, and for some patients the loss could be permanent.




Body contouring procedures such as tummy tuck, liposuction, and breast augmentation can create a more defined figure. Talk to a surgeon about how cosmetic surgery can help you achieve your goals.