Tummy tuck surgery is one of the most rewarding procedures to finally have your body back and achieve the toned definition you have always wanted. The procedure is a way to achieve a more sculpted and defined look that you’ll love. If you’re considering a tummy tuck, here are the important things to know about the surgery.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that aims to create a flatter-looking stomach with less skin laxity using traditional surgical abdominoplasty techniques (which can vary depending on your needs, goals, and body type) and, when necessary, complimentary body sculpting procedures like liposuction. Also known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck helps to reshape the abdominal wall by repairing diastasis recti (a common side effect of pregnancy) that leads to a bulging of the stomach. Excess fat in the area is often removed to help enhance the contour of the stomach and the waist.
The procedure involves several steps to create a flatter, more streamlined stomach. During the surgery, general anesthesia is first administered so that you are comfortable during the procedure and will feel nothing. Next, an incision is made that runs from hip to hip. If a modified or mini tummy tuck is performed, the incision is shorter and longer with an extended tummy tuck. From there, the abdominal fascia is tightened to bring the abdominal muscles together. This will help strengthen the core and reduce pooching, bulging, or protruding in the belly.
If excess fat is present in the stomach, liposuction may also be performed to reduce stubborn fat. Combining liposuction with a tummy tuck helps to further enhance the result, giving way to a more sculpted, contoured look.
Any excess skin is excised to address loose skin on the abdomen, leaving behind a taut, firm-looking stomach.
What to Expect During Recovery
A tummy tuck recovery will take time. This surgery will take several weeks to heal fully. It’s normal to experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort as you heal, all of which can be managed with pain medication. To help your body recover properly, it’s essential to follow all post-op directions, always wear your compression garments, and avoid strenuous activities. You’ll need plenty of help around you since you won’t be able to do light household chores, and getting around will be difficult. Some patients also find sleeping in a recliner helps to take pressure off their stomachs.
Following your surgery, you may have drains for a few days, which you’ll need to clean regularly. You will need to wear a compression garment to help with the healing process and support the areas operated on. The first few days after surgery are when there is the most soreness, swelling, bloating, and discomfort. After day five, the recovery symptoms will start to improve, and you’ll feel better with each coming week.
Most patients begin to feel better and more like themselves around the second week. It’s usually around this time that you’ll be able to comfortably sit and stand upright, and depending on how you are healing, you may be able to start doing light chores around the house and some of your regular activities.
By week four, you should be able to resume your exercise routine. Any residual swelling will start to subside, and you’ll be able to see the results of your surgery.
One year after your surgery, the abdomen should be fully healed, the final results visible, and the scar begins to fade. For tips on how to mitigate your tummy tuck scar, read our blog here.
Ideal Candidates for a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is an excellent solution for those who are unhappy with the appearance of their stomach. Those who see the best results from a tummy tuck, no matter if it is a standard or modified version, often experience the following:
- Weak abdominal muscles that bulge or protrude
- Stubborn pockets of fat in the abdominal area
- Excess skin in the abdominal area
It is also essential that you are at a stable weight and done having children before committing to treatment. Additional pregnancies and weight fluctuations can compromise the final results of a tummy tuck. Patients with good physical and mental health and a healthy lifestyle also make for good candidates.
The Importance of a Consultation for Personalized Results
Like any elective cosmetic procedure, a tummy tuck should always be personalized to address your concerns and help you reach your goals. A consultation is of the utmost importance in your tummy tuck journey. During your consultation, you can talk candidly with Dr. Daluvoy or Dr. Blanton about your body, your concerns and goals, the procedure, and ask all of your questions to develop the best plan for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a full and mini tummy tuck?
Both full and mini tummy tucks involve tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess skin, but the main difference is that with a full tummy tuck, the areas above and below the belly button are addressed, whereas a mini tummy tuck generally just corrects the area below the belly button. Due to the limited treatment zone of a mini tummy tuck, a smaller incision is needed, which also means a smaller scar.
What will my scar look like?
Since the incisions are made low on the abdomen, often near the pubic region, your scar will be well hidden under bathing suits, underwear, and even low-cut clothing. Over time, the scar will fade and turn into a faint white line that is barely noticeable. To learn about treatment options to minimize scarring, read our blog here.
How soon will I be able to see my results?
When you wake up from surgery, you will notice that your stomach is flatter and tighter, but there will be swelling, so you won’t be able to see the full results. About two to three weeks after surgery, the swelling will begin to diminish, and you’ll have a better feel for your results. The full results will be visible over the next few months to one year.
Does insurance cover a tummy tuck?
Because a tummy tuck is cosmetic and not medically necessary, it is not typically covered by insurance.