Both men and women who struggle with stubborn fat and loose skin around their midsections don’t have to live with this nuisance forever when a tummy tuck procedure can give them the flatter abdomen they’ve always wanted. A tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin and tightens the underlying muscular structure leaving you looking and feeling better about yourself. Dr. Erick Sanchez, with Sanchez Plastic Surgery in Baton Rouge, LA has performed numerous tummy tuck procedures and patients are raving about their newly toned and tighter midsections. If you are contemplating a tummy tuck for yourself, read more to learn everything you need to know about this popular cosmetic surgery!
What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a procedure performed to remove excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, along with the tightening of muscles within the abdominal wall. The incision for a tummy tuck is placed below the belly button and the length can vary depending on how much skin and fat tissue needs to be removed. Excess fat is removed using liposuction and the underlying stomach muscles are tightened. Once the excess loose skin is removed, the incision is carefully closed. The end result of a tummy tuck is a flatter, tighter, more toned abdominal area. There are multiple tummy tuck methods to choose from and your plastic surgeon will discuss which option will provide the best outcome for your specific situation.
Who should perform this procedure?
Finding an experienced Baton Rouge board-certified plastic surgeon is usually the first order of business when searching for a surgeon to perform abdominoplasty. Plastic surgeons have the experience needed in order to have the highest success rate with this procedure and they can also help you obtain the best results. It’s important to ask your surgeon how long they’ve been practicing, and specifically, how long they’ve been performing tummy tuck procedures, and how often in a given year. Finding a good plastic surgeon that is known for producing good results is crucial to your overall satisfaction with the procedure.
Am I a good candidate?
A good candidate for a tummy tuck procedure is someone who is at a healthy weight, but is still struggling with excess fat and skin in their midsection. A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure and is not recommended for patients who are overweight. The purpose of a tummy tuck is to remove loose and excess skin that remains due to various reasons including dramatic weight loss, aging, or genetics. It is especially beneficial for women who have completed one or multiple pregnancies, allowing them to once again attain their pre-pregnancy shape. For maximum results, it is recommended that women wait to schedule their tummy tuck surgery until after they’re finished having children. A tummy tuck procedure is an excellent option for people who have tried changing their diet and increasing their amount of exercise, but are still unable to get rid of the stubborn fat and extra skin.
What can it do for me?
A tummy tuck can work wonders on a woman who is struggling with wrinkled, excess skin and fat that remains from pregnancy. While pregnancy is an amazing experience, it can take a toll on the stomach area. This procedure is an instant self confidence boost for women as they no longer have to worry with the constant reminder of the weight gain and stretched skin that pregnancy resulted in on their bodies. This is also the same for Baton Rouge area men and women who have lost a considerable amount of weight. These patients should be proud that they’ve achieved such a remarkable feat, but instead they have to deal with the aftermath of hiding the saggy loose skin. A tummy tuck procedure can remove the extra skin and fat and allow you to show off your new body without hesitation.
What are the types of tummy tucks?
During your consultation your plastic surgeon will conduct a physical examination and determine which type of tummy tuck to move forward with. The most popular type of tummy tuck procedures are a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck is used on patients that require minor tightening and have a smaller amount of skin and fat to be removed. A full tummy tuck, also known as a traditional tummy tuck, is more extensive and a better option for patients that have a larger amount of skin and fat to be removed. During the procedure an incision is made from hip bone to hip bone and liposuction is used to remove as much excess fat as possible. The final step during this procedure is the repositioning of the belly button so that the results look symmetrical and natural. Your surgeon will select which type of tummy tuck procedure will benefit you the most based on multiple factors including your body type, the health and quality of your skin, and the amount of fat that is present in the abdominal region.
What is recovery like?
Immediately following the procedure you can expect to feel some discomfort especially when attempting to stand up straight or when moving around. A compression garment can help aid in healing and provide support. Bruising and swelling in the abdominal area will decrease after a few weeks. It’s recommended that patients return to light activities within 2 weeks following the surgery, and avoid any strenuous activities for at least 6 weeks following the procedure. You can expect a full recovery from this procedure within 6-8 weeks. For optimal results, it is important to follow every step of the recovery protocol your surgeon puts in place for you.
How do I find out more?
If you’d like to learn more about a tummy tuck procedure then the first step is to contact our Baton Rouge plastic surgery office to schedule an initial consultation. Dr. Sanchez will use this time to discuss your medical history and to see if you’re a good candidate for a tummy tuck procedure. You can also expect to discuss the procedure in greater detail including any risks associated with a tummy tuck, and what to expect during the surgery.
Give our plastic surgery center a call today to be one step closer to a tighter, flatter stomach and a whole new you. We look forward to hearing from you.