Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is considered a major surgery, but it is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgeries. If you’ve been thinking about getting a tummy tuck, you should be aware of the ins and outs of the procedure before you book your surgery.

What Does an Abdominoplasty Do?

You typically choose a tummy tuck if you have excess skin around your belly button, a weak lower abdomen, or if liposuction didn’t give you the results you want. This procedure will give you a slimmer appearance and can smooth out stretch marks. You can finally get back into your favorite pair of jeans with the help of abdominoplasty. It might not be a good procedure for you if you are planning on losing a large amount of weight, are planning to have children, or have a chronic health condition.

What Happens During the Procedure?

Tummy tucks are always performed under general anesthesia. The doctor starts with incisions to remove the skin and fat between the belly button and the pubic hair. When the skin and fat are removed, the fascia over the abdominal muscles will be tightened using permanent sutures.

Next, the doctor will position the skin around the belly button. It will be brought through a small incision and sutured back to its normal position.

Recovery

The incisions are covered with a surgical dressing. You’ll be given medication to help you during the healing process.

A supportive compression garment needs to be worn for six weeks after your surgery. This helps minimize discomfort but also inhibits fluid buildup. For the next three months, you will need to move slowly and carefully, especially when you’re bending over at the waist. You’ll be seeing your doctor over the next year as they check to make sure your abdominal muscles are healing properly.

If exercise and diet haven’t given you the look that you want, an abdominoplasty may be the procedure necessary for your goals. Contact the office of Dr. Wendell Perry today to schedule your appointment. Dr. Perry offers a variety of services to help patients get their ideal appearance. During the consultation, your cosmetic goals will be reviewed and a treatment plan will be developed to help you reach those goals. Tummy tucks can be the perfect complement to a healthy diet and regular exercise. Get started today.