subject: Are You Ready For A Tummy Tuck? [print this page] A tummy tuck is a procedure in which the excess skin and fatty tissues in the lower abdomen are removed. This procedure is usually invasive, though micro procedures can provide some results with minimal invasion into the body. No matter what type you obtain, it is critical that you get this procedure done at the right time in your life. It has lasting results. For many women and men, this procedure can give them what exercising and dieting alone cannot. It can also give them a boost of self-confidence when they love the way they look again.
Is Your Health Stable?
No matter what has led you to this point, you need to ensure your weight is stable enough to go forward with this procedure. That means knowing that any type of cardiovascular, brain, lung or other condition you have is under control. You may still have it, but medications are maintaining it. This type of control is necessary to ensure that you are well enough to have surgery. In addition, your doctor may request that your physician sign off on you having this procedure if there are risks involved.
Is Your Weight Stable?
Also important is your weight. Many people lose a significant amount of weight and end up with a very saggy midsection. A tummy tuck is the ideal way to improve this situation. However, you need to make sure your weight has stabilized. Generally, doctors want to know your weight has been about the same for three to six months before agreeing to move forward with this procedure. The reason for this is simple. If you gain weight again, you are going to put a great deal of pressure on the skin and you will end up with the same problem. If you lose a lot of weight going forward, this will create more sagging and may require an additional procedure.
Are You Done Having Children?
Finally, your doctor will want to know that you are no longer likely to conceive if you are a woman. Pregnancy is another cause of sagging skin in this area. If you get pregnant again, after having the procedure, chances are good you are going to develop the same skin concerns as last time. However, this surgery can complicate and even limit your skin's ability to stretch.
Head in for a consultation to talk to your surgeon about having a tummy tuck. He or she will want to perform an examination of your body and get to know your medical history. Do not leave anything out since the details can make a difference in the outcome. The good news is that most people do qualify for this type of procedure if they are in relatively good health.
