The formal name for a tummy tuck is abdominoplasty. It’s a procedure that reduces excess fat and loose skin and tightens and tones weakened and separated stomach muscles.
The benefits of tummy tucks make them a plastic surgery choice for many women in their 40s and 50s once they have finished having children. Have you had trouble losing that last bit of weight? Do you need some help getting over the threshold?
If you are considering a tummy tuck procedure, an expert can help you determine if it is right for you. Keep reading to learn some questions you should ask your tummy tuck surgeon.
1. Am I a Tummy Tuck Candidate?
The best candidates are in good health and have sagging skin, excess fat, and loose muscle. They are within 20% of their ideal body weight. They’ve kept extra weight off for at least six months.
2. Are You Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
Don’t let just anyone perform this surgery. You want to be sure that the surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Look for someone who is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
3. What Happens During the Surgery?
This procedure takes between one and two hours under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes a horizontal or U-shaped incision above the pubic area. Several pounds of stomach fat and excess skin is removed and the abdominal muscles are tightened.
A second incision around the navel is sometimes necessary to remove the excess skin above the belly button. This results in the most natural-looking tummy.
When the surgery is complete, the incisions are closed and covered with a dressing and compression garment.
4. How Will I Look After Surgery?
As people are preparing for tummy tucks, they can’t help but wonder how they’ll look after the surgery. Once the swelling goes down, your stomach will be firm and it’ll look smoother and flatter.
The scaring will fade after several months, you’ll be slimmer, and your tummy will be tighter.
5. What is the Cost?
Tummy tucks are not often covered by health insurance unless it is a medically necessary procedure. Depending on where you live, the cost usually runs between $3,000 and $8,500.
Wondering about the exact cost of surgery? Learn more about the total tummy tuck cost here.
Finding the Right Tummy Tuck Surgeon
Now that you know the proper questions to ask, you’ll have no problem finding the right tummy tuck surgeon. A qualified surgeon will answer your questions and help you make the right choice. It’s an important decision so don’t rush it.
Be sure to bookmark our site for easy access to all the information that can help you enjoy every moment of life. From food and drinks to health and lifestyle to relationships to travel, we have you covered.
