|
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can reduce or flatten a protruding abdomen when weight loss or exercise is not effective. People who have had multiple pregnancies, significant weight loss, or other conditions that have stretched the abdominal muscles and skin can benefit from a tummy tuck. The procedure is most effective for individuals who have stabilized at their desired weight. Being a major surgery, it is important that you take the time to educate yourself, thoroughly analyze your own situation and do not rush to make the final decision. A tummy tuck should not be used as an alternative to weight loss and is suitable for both men and women who are in good general health. Your board certified plastic surgeon in Oak Brook, Naperville and surrounding areas will be able to help you in the process of deciding if abdominoplasty is the best solution for you. Are you a Candidate for Abdominoplasty? A tummy tuck is suitable for both men and women who are in good overall health. It is important not to confuse abdominoplasty with liposuction, although your plastic surgeon may elect to perform liposuction as part of a tummy tuck. Women who have muscles and skin stretched by multiple pregnancies may find the procedure useful to tighten those muscles and reduce the amount of loosened skin. A tummy tuck is also an alternative for men or women who suffered from obesity at one point in their lives and still have excessive fat deposits or loose skin in their abdominal area. Good candidates will also understand the procedure and have realistic expectations of the outcome. The repair and tightening of the abdominal muscles, along with the removal of the excess skin, may greatly improve body contour and appearance. With improved appearance, your self-esteem may improve to help increase your confidence in social situations. However, the surgery cannot bring back your youth or create an ideal figure. This is why it is important to have a realistic outlook on what you want from this procedure. Those who should not get abdominoplasty include:
• Women who are still planning on having children
• Those who are still planning on losing a great deal of weight Recovery after your Abdominoplasty Procedure Whether you are having a partial or complete tummy tuck, your incision site will be stitched and bandaged. It is very important that you follow your plastic surgeon's instructions on how to care for the bandage in the days following your surgery. This is what will determine how well you heal and recover, allowing you to go back to your normal day-to-day life. If you are a physically active person you will have to limit strenuous exercise and activities for at least six weeks to ensure proper recovery. Your plastic surgeon will advise you on the best possible way to perform during the healing process. In certain cases, you may need to take up to a month off of work after surgery to ensure proper recovery. Your plastic surgeon will discuss all options with you when you go in for consultation. It is important to take into considerations all of your options available and to educate yourself on the procedure. Your board certified plastic surgeon in Hinsdale, Naperville and Oak Brook areas will be able to further determine if you are a good candidate for abdominoplasty and explain all of the surgical options.
Sean Hartmen writes for board certified plastic surgeon in Naperville, Oak Brook and Hinsdale, Dr. Alexandria Saulis. Dr. Saulis is on staff at three Chicago area hospitals and earned her MD from the Northwestern University School of Medicine in Chicago. Dr. Saulis offers procedures including breast augmentation, liposuction and abdominoplasty in Naperville.
|
