Who doesn’t want a firm, flat stomach? Actors and actresses, movies and magazines all give us an image of a perfect body but unfortunately for us, life can get in the way. Pregnancy, losing and gaining weight, genes, or a prior surgery can all be reasons why we do not have the perfect stomach. Sometimes you just need a little help obtaining that. Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, removes excess fat and skin from the stomach area. This type of surgery is personal and if you are considering having it then you should always do it for yourself and not anyone else. You also have to make sure that you are not having a tummy tuck to look like Jennifer Lopez or Cindy Crawford. You must have realistic expectations about the end result of this surgery. A lot of people think that because they are having a tummy tuck, they do not have to watch their weight or exercise anymore. That is not correct at all. It is possible to gain weight in the abdominal area after having a tummy tuck. It does not stop you from eating smaller portions or keep you at your “after surgery size”. There are some requirements that should be bet when considering this surgery. Having good health is a requirement (and should be a requirement for all cosmetic surgeries), maintaining a healthy weight, and a non-smoker. Women that are considering getting pregnant in the future after having a tummy tuck should not consider this surgery at that time. With no intention to alarm anyone or scare anyone away, this is a major surgery and should not be taken lightly. You should do as much research as possible and know every benefit, every risk and everything in between. Here are a few facts to know about a tummy tuck…
- When having a tummy tuck, the patient is usually under general anesthesia (yet there are cases when it was done under a local anesthetic and a sedative)
- The entire surgery lasts anywhere from two to five hours
- An incision is made from hipbone to hipbone and another incision is made across the abdomen and around the belly button
- Once the skin is opened, the muscles are tightened and the excess skin is pulled up and removed. The rest of the skin is then stitched back into place.
- Recovery time can range anywhere between one to three weeks.
The cost of a tummy tuck can range anywhere from $3,000 to $8,500. This price includes anesthesia, the facility, and the surgeon. Be aware that if you have to stay the night in the hospital or in the doctor’s office (wherever you had the surgery, there will be additional costs). There is no need to be scared but knowing all of the facts will help you make the best decision for yourself. Do as much research as you can on tummy tucks and various doctors in your area and you should be fine.
