Tummy Tuck: Abdominoplasty procedure

Abdominoplasty, which is also known as a tummy tuck, is one of the most popular major surgical procedures when it comes to removing excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall.

The abdominal skin and fatty tissue in humans are elevated to the level of the rib cage and the underlying abdominal muscles are tightened. This underlying structure helps to flatten the abdominal surface. The truth is that the tummy tuck procedure can dramatically reduce the appearance of a protruding (bloated, fat) abdomen, although a tummy tuck does lead to a permanent scar, which can sometimes extend as far as from hip to hip. While a person's choices about their diet and exercise can help keep their abdominal area in shape, only a tummy tuck is able to remove the skin folds and stubborn subcutaneous fat deposits which many fat people hate so much. An abdominoplasty procedure can enhance a person’s appearance and their self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change the looks to match a person’s ideal — in other words you won't look like a photo model, just a tighter, slimmer version of yourself. A tummy tuck can also be very expensive, because the treatment can cost around $3,600.00 and $5,500.00 or sometimes even more (this includes the Operating Room and also the Anesthesiologist).

Ideal Candidates for Abdominoplasty: Who usually has a tummy tuck?

There are several reasons due to which someone might want to consider having an abdominoplasty procedure.
Some of the the reasons why someone may choose to have a tummy tuck include:

• having excess skin
• stretch marks or
• loose abdominal muscles

which may happen after:
 

• losing a lot of weight through dieting and exercise
• pregnancy
• successful surgery to treat obesity

It is important to remember that a tummy tuck is not a treatment for weight control and is not a substitute for regular physical activity and a healthy balanced diet. It should also not be confused with liposuction although surgeon may elect to perform liposuction as part of a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck is a commonly performed and generally safe surgical procedure. For most people, the benefits in terms of improved appearance are greater than any disadvantages, but it carries many possible complications.

How should  the surgery be planned?

Before an operation, everything should be checked and planned with a specialist. Abdominal surgeon should:

• evaluate the patient’s health
• determine the extent of fat deposits in the abdominal region
• carefully assess skin tone

They will also probably be asking about some habits such as smoking, as well as if the patient is taking any medications, vitamins, or other drugs.

During the consultation, the surgeon should also explain about the anesthesia he will use. General anesthesia could be used so that the patient will sleep through the operation. Some surgeons use local anesthesia, combined with a sedative to make the patient drowsy.