What Is Abdominoplasty? How a Tummy Tuck Works & What to Expect

Do you want to lose weight and feel good about your body? Unfortunately, 70% of people who undergo massive weight loss end up with loose, hanging skin that still leaves them feeling self-conscious about their appearance.

How can you hit your goal weight and look the way you want? Opt for an abdominoplasty. What is abdominoplasty? Read on to learn more!

What Is Abdominoplasty?

More popularly known as a tummy tuck procedure, an abdominoplasty refers to a surgical procedure that sculpts the waistline by removing excess fat and skin. The surgery also repositions the abdominal muscles for a smooth, flat tummy.

Leading Up to the Procedure

Designate a support person who will know about the procedure, provide you with rides there and home, serve as an emergency contact, and help you physically and emotionally while you heal.

You will need to begin with an evaluation and bloodwork. Then, follow your doctor's instructions prior to the surgery. You may need to just take your medications, quit smoking, and fast before surgery.

How Tummy Tucks Work

Abdominoplasty works similarly to any other surgical procedure. You can expect to undergo general anesthesia to keep you comfortable during the procedure. 

The surgeon begins with a horizontal incision that runs across the pubic hairline. The amount of excess skin will determine the shape and size of the incision. 

To remove skin and fat in the upper abdomen, the surgeon will make a second incision near the belly button.

At the incision sites, the surgeon lifts the skin to repair muscle, remove fat, and trim and reposition excess skin. Your surgeon will use sutures to neatly close up your tummy.

Tummy Tuck Aftercare

Expect months of taking it easy following abdominal surgery. You will experience pain, swelling, bruising, and burning as the incision heals.

You will manage your pain with medications prescribed by your doctor. Also, expect to wear an abdominal wrap for weeks to reduce pain and swelling.

You may need to sponge bathe until the doctor gives the okay to shower. Watch for signs of infection, such as excessive pain, fever, and pus drainage. 

Benefits

Surgery sounds scary. But, choosing a tummy tuck surgery by Dr. James Anthony also offers numerous benefits.

After recovery, you will look and feel better in your own skin. Some people struggle with weight loss for years and still never achieve the results a tummy tuck offers almost immediately.

This surgery also tightens your core muscles. This will make exercise to stay in shape more manageable once you heal.

Being overweight causes many health issues. Getting a tummy tuck can help reduce lower back pain, fix urinary incontinence, and reduce your risk for heart disease.

Improving the way you look and feel will also boost your self-esteem. This will allow you the confidence you need to maintain a healthy social life and succeed in every aspect.

Healthy Is Beautiful

What is abdominoplasty? This surgical procedure is a chance to take your life in the direction you want it. It allows you to choose your health while looking and feeling more beautiful.

We know that beauty requires a healthier way of living. Find tips for keeping your hair, skin, and nails both healthy and beautiful on our website!