subject: From Abdominoplasty Surgery To Recovery [print this page] It is a surgical procedure that basically focuses on minimizing the appearance of the abdomen. By minimizing, we mean reducing the occurrence of excess fat, tissues and skin which may be present in the area. A surgical procedure is necessary to achieve this and it is included in the roster of plastic surgery procedures.
Step One
The first step to the procedure is for the individual to consult a doctor about whether or not it is suitable for him or her. Both men and women can have this operation done on by qualified plastic surgeons although, most patients are women and the number of men is increasing. In the consultation, the doctor may request a medical history from the patient along with an interview regarding current health issues, medications and the reasons for wishing to undergo a tummy tuck. This will help the doctor determine how qualified the patient is for the procedure.
Some surgeons may advise the individual to try out means to lose some weight in order to have better chances of achieving a more satisfying operation instead of undergoing it immediately. Some factors may prompt the surgeon to do so but most of them will accommodate the request for a tummy tuck. If all is well n the mental and physical health department, the surgeon may schedule the operation in consideration of the patient's preferences.
Step Two
The schedule for the operation will most certainly prompt some lifestyle changes such as a cessation from taking supplements or medications which may interfere with the success of the operation. Tests might be done to determine how suitable or ready a person is for the surgery. Supplements or medicines which affect the ability of the blood to clot and those that may slow the healing of wounds are to be stopped indefinitely.
Before the abdominoplasty smokers may also be asked to stop smoking for several weeks. These preparations may also include the ingestion of antibiotic medications among others. Doctors usually also ask their patients to prepare the recovery paraphernalia, medications and others so as not to be disturbed to buy them when they are needed.
Step Three
The operation itself may take several hours, especially for those who have lost a large amount of weight. Losing a lot of weight usually equals a flabbier stomach area and loose skin which will prompt the desire for a leaner abdominal area. The abdominoplasty consists of several incisions which allow the surgeon to cut away the excess skin, tissues and fat that has contributed to the flabby appearance.
Some surgeons may combine a liposuction procedure with a tummy tuck but there are also some doctors who prefer different sessions. There are full methods and semi tummy tuck methods available depending on what is needed by the patient. More time is needed for full tummy tuck procedures.
The Recovery
The recovery from a tummy tuck procedure may take several weeks but the patient can return to work after a week's worth of rest and recuperation. Caution is necessary since an infection may occur as well as the presence of swelling. The use of a compression garment is almost always recommended by the surgeon.
