Is Abdominal Plastic Surgery Right For You?
- You're close to your ideal weight
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure, and it's not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. If you're significantly overweight or obese, it's important to lose weight through diet and exercise before considering a tummy tuck. In fact, it's recommended that you be within 10-15 pounds of your ideal weight before undergoing this procedure. This will ensure that you achieve the best results and minimize your risk of complications. - You have excess skin or fat in the abdominal area
A tummy tuck is most effective for individuals who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, particularly after pregnancy or significant weight loss. If you have loose, sagging skin or stubborn pockets of fat that have not responded to diet and exercise, a tummy tuck may be a good option for you. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the excess skin and fat and tighten the abdominal muscles, resulting in a smoother, firmer, and more toned midsection. - You're in good overall health
As with any surgical procedure, it's important to be in good overall health before undergoing a tummy tuck. This means being free from chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure, as well as being a non-smoker. If you have any underlying health issues, it's important to discuss them with your surgeon to determine whether a tummy tuck is safe for you. - You have realistic expectations
A tummy tuck can be a life-changing procedure that boosts your confidence and self-esteem. However, it's important to have realistic expectations about what it can and cannot achieve. While a tummy tuck can remove excess skin and fat and tighten the abdominal muscles, it cannot address stretch marks or cellulite, and it cannot guarantee a completely flat and toned midsection. It's important to discuss your goals and expectations with your surgeon to ensure that you're on the same page. - You're willing to commit to recovery
Finally, it's important to understand that a tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure that requires a significant recovery period. You'll need to take time off from work and avoid strenuous activity for several weeks after the procedure. You'll also need to wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support your abdomen during the healing process. It's important to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully and commit to a healthy lifestyle to ensure the best possible results.
Tighten Your Tummy With Abdominal Plastic Surgery At Okanagan Health Surgical
A tummy tuck can be a great option for individuals who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area and are in good overall health. However, it's important to have realistic expectations and commit to a healthy lifestyle to ensure the best possible results. If you're considering a tummy tuck, be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can help you determine whether it's the right choice for you.
When you’re ready to get a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with a reputable and skilled plastic surgeon. At Okanagan Health Surgical, our team of trusted plastic surgeons will educate you about any associated surgery risks and they will inform you about what recovery will look like. Together, we will discuss your desired expectation for final results. To find out more about the costs and benefits of a tummy tuck procedure, and how our team of board-certified plastic surgeons can create a fully customized treatment plan to help you reach all your aesthetic goals, contact our Kelowna private hospital at 250-868-9799 or fill in our online contact form.
FAQ
Q: How long is the recovery time for a tummy tuck?
A: A tummy tuck requires up to four weeks of downtime and you cannot participate in any strenuous activity during this time. You may feel close to your old self after a few months, but it can take a full year for your abdomen to fully recover and show optimal results.
Q: When can I begin exercising after my tummy tuck procedure?
A: You can begin light exercise four weeks after your procedure if approved by your surgeon.
Q: How safe is a tummy tuck?
A: Mini tummy tucks are generally considered safe, however, every procedure has associated risks. With a minor abdominoplasty procedure, you may experience infection, irregular scarring, or fluid accumulation under your skin. In contrast, a full abdominoplasty is considered a more invasive surgery that requires appropriate preparation and post-operative care. Full abdominoplasty patients may experience pain, numbness, bleeding, and infection. There is also a chance of scarring, however, it should fade over time. For these reasons and more, it is essential to seek treatment from a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience such as one of our private surgeons at Okanagan Health Surgical.
