A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is arguably one of the most popular forms of cosmetic surgery. This transformative procedure focuses on removing excess fat and skin from the abdominal area and creating a smoother, flatter, and more toned shape. In patients who have very lax abdominal muscles, not only will the overlying skin be tightened, but so too will the muscles underneath, helping you to achieve a stomach that is both smoother and stronger.
However, before you can undergo a tummy tuck procedure, you will need to attend a consultation with your cosmetic surgeon who will evaluate your suitability for the procedure. As well as a physical examination, your consultation will involve a discussion that looks at various areas of your health and lifestyle to determine if a tummy tuck is a safe and effective course of action to address your cosmetic concerns.
Patients who are considered to be a good candidate for a tummy tuck are usually:
At a Stable Weight
It’s very important for patients to realize that while a tummy tuck procedure will cause you to lose a little weight as excess skin and fat are removed, it is not a weight-loss treatment and should be carried out only once you reach a weight that you are happy with and that is stable. This is because any further weight loss could cause you to lose more volume on your abdominal area, creating the appearance of loose skin that reverses the effects of your initial tummy tuck surgery.
In Generally Good Health
As with any surgery, patients who want to have a tummy tuck need to be in generally good health. This helps to minimize the risks associated with the use of general anesthetic as well as the actual tummy tuck procedure itself. Your cosmetic surgeon will ask you about your medical history, including any health conditions that you have and any medications that you take.
Non-Smokers
Unsurprisingly, smoking is bad news when it comes to surgeries too. This is because smoking reduces the amount of oxygen in your blood, making it harder for your body to heal and recover from injuries and surgical wounds. Not only that but smoking also increases your risk of experiencing complications both during the procedure and your recovery.
Finished with Having a Family
If you are female, there is little point in having a tummy tuck until you decide that you no longer wish to have any more children. Pregnancy will inevitably cause your stomach to grow and the skin to stretch, essentially reversing the improvement that has been made with your initial tummy tuck procedure. Therefore, we strongly advise that you hold off getting this procedure until you are certain your family is complete.
In Control of Their Decision
Finally, your cosmetic surgeon will want to be assured that you are choosing to undergo a tummy tuck procedure for yourself, not because someone has suggested that you need a flatter, tighter stomach and that you have realistic expectations for the outcome of your surgery.
Find out if you are a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery, contact Handal Plastic Surgery in Boca Raton, Florida at (561) 220-6360 for a consultation.
