subject: Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tucks [print this page] A tummy tuck, which is formally known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure that is performed by a plastic surgeon to create a flatter stomach. While they are beneficial to some people under certain circumstances, they are not meant as a method of weight loss. These are some of the most frequently asked questions about the tummy tuck surgery.
Who should consider a tummy tuck?
The ideal candidate has weakened abdominal muscles and/or excess skin, is not planning on losing a lot of weight in the future or of becoming pregnant.
How does the surgery work to make my stomach flatter?
Excess skin is removed from the abdominal region in every type of tummy tuck and, depending on the extent of your surgery, the muscles below may be tightened. The damage that has occurred from multiple pregnancies or excessive weight loss includes stretched skin and weakened muscle.
Does abdominoplasty leave a scar?
Yes, all tummy tucks leave a scar and the more extensive the surgery, the bigger the scar will be. However, the scarring is placed low on the bikini line where it will be covered by your underwear.
What is the difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction and which is better?
Liposuction is a procedure that is used to remove fat pockets beneath the skin. A tummy tuck is used to get rid of excess skin and tighten muscles. Therefore, liposuction is sometimes used in combination with a tummy tuck in order to create the desired results.
Some doctors believe this interferes with the healing process so it will depend on your surgeon whether or not both types of surgery may be used on your abdomen. If you still have a lot of elasticity in your skin and have fat deposits in your abdomen, you may benefit more from the liposuction than from the tummy tuck.
Is the tummy tuck painful?
Most doctors will use local anesthesia in addition to sedation so that you are awake, relaxed, and insensitive to pain. You will probably have swelling and pain after the procedure, at least for the first few days. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to control the pain.
Is abdominoplasty performed as an outpatient procedure?
This depends on the extent of the surgery. You may be released after a few hours or required to stay in the hospital for several days.
