If you’re thinking about getting a tummy tuck at Queen City Plastic Surgery, you may wonder what is included with the popular procedure.
The Tummy Tuck
The tummy tuck is used for the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, creating a more attractive and toned figure. Besides removing excess skin and fat, your plastic surgeon will also be tightening your abdominal muscles, leading to the appearance of a flatter stomach and skin free of laxity or stretch marks. Tummy Tuck is usually combined with liposuction to improve the overall appearance.
The procedure itself can take anywhere from two to four hours to complete. You may be provided with either local anesthesia with sedation medication, or general anesthesia. You should be able to return home the same after the completion of your tummy tuck.
Steps Involved
A tummy tuck can be generally divided into four steps:
1. Your surgeon creates an incision around your belly button and removes excess skin, fat, and tissue.
2. They tighten your abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat.
3. Your surgeon repositions abdominal muscles into their original positions.
4. Finally, they will close your incisions using surgical stitches. A drain may be placed in the wound to assist in healing.
Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures
Your plastic surgeon may advise you to undergo one of the tummy tuck procedures below to help you achieve a flatter and firmer abdominal area.
Mini Tummy Tuck
If you are getting a mini tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon will create an incision under your belly button, allowing them to tighten sagging abdominal muscles. They will also remove any excess skin to help create a firmer and flatter abdominal wall.
Typically, mini tummy tuck procedures involve a relatively short recovery time and minimal scarring.
Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck involves both the upper and lower abdominal areas. Your surgeon would create an incision under your belly button and remove excess skin and fat, leading to a slimmer abdominal appearance.
A full tummy tuck leaves typically behind a longer scar because of the extensive incisions that are necessary. However, your surgeon will do their best to minimize scarring, and you can likely hide it under a swimsuit bottom.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
You may need to keep surgical dressings and tubes in place to allow for the drainage of excess fluid or blood. These normally remain in place for a few days.
You may also be provided with a prescription for pain medication, an antibiotic and other medications as deemed appropriate for specific needs.
For about six weeks after your tummy tuck, you must wear a support garment for your stomach. During this time, be careful whenever you move around to avoid straining your incision and reopening the wound.
Scheduling
If you still have questions about any aspect of the tummy tuck procedure, feel free to contact Queen City Plastic Surgery of Charlotte today.