What is a Tummy Tuck?
Time, age, and weight gain and loss can take their toll on your abdomen, resulting in loose muscles, and loose skin. Dr Damon Thomas performs tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) for his Victoria patients looking for a way to achieve what diet and exercise don’t seem to provide.
THE BEST CANDIDATES
The first question to answer if you are considering a tummy tuck is whether you are a good candidate for the procedure. The best abdominoplasty patients have achieved a relatively stable weight, but have isolated areas of fat or loose skin they have not been able to eliminate by their efforts. Patients must be in relatively good health and non-smokers or smokers willing to kick the habit for a few months in favour of a positive outcome.
THE ANAESTHESIA
Tummy tucks are frequently performed under general anaesthesia, due to the extensive nature of the surgery. General anaesthesia is a suitable option for most patients. However, those with certain underlying medical conditions, smokers and a history of adverse effects to anaesthesia should not opt for this type of surgery unless medically necessary. Dr Thomas will discuss your medical history to determine whether general anaesthesia is safe and appropriate for you.
THE INCISION
An incision for a tummy tuck, depending on the amount of correction required, may extend from hipbone to hipbone. Dr Thomas will carefully place the incision so the resulting scar is not visible in most clothing and bathing suits. To ensure the incision heals well, you will need to follow precise instructions on caring for the incision for many weeks and even months. Dr Thomas will explain what is required to ensure a healthy recovery and a desirable cosmetic result from your procedure.
THE TECHNIQUE
Different techniques can be used to perform a tummy tuck, based on the level of correction you need. Some patients will need a full abdominoplasty to ensure all the excess fat, muscle laxity and loose skin is properly addressed. Other patients may not need as much skin and tissue removed, which might allow for a mini tummy tuck, a less invasive procedure that offers moderate correction of the midsection. Your surgeon will help you determine the best option for you based on your precise concerns and your expected outcome.
THE RECOVERY
A tummy tuck is typically a more involved surgery than other cosmetic procedures, so a longer recovery time should be expected and accommodated. Planning for that time will ensure a more restful recuperation, fewer risks for complications and higher satisfaction with your outcome overall. Most patients resume non-strenuous activities within two to three weeks.
THE RESULTS
The results of a tummy tuck can be both significant and long-lasting when a stable weight is maintained. However, that outcome is not seen overnight. In fact, it may be six months before the swelling subsides and the full results of your abdominoplasty become evident. Patience during the recovery period is essential as you wait for that outcome to take shape. Once they do, adherence to a healthy lifestyle will help your results endure over the long term.
A tummy tuck is a dramatic way to sculpt your body profile, as long as you select a seasoned plastic surgeon for your procedure. Dr Thomas has been a fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons since 2005, which allows him to place the coveted FRACS distinction in his professional title.
To learn more about the benefits of a tummy tuck or find out if Dr Thomas is the right surgeon for you, contact our office today on 03 9034 7738.
MAKING AN INFORMED DECISION
Our website is intended to provide general information about abdominoplasty and should not be used as a substitute for personalised medical advice. It is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine if abdominoplasty is the right procedure for you. The following considerations should be part of your decision-making process.
Risks
All surgical procedures carry risk. The potential risks and complications associated with abdominoplasty include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, changes in skin sensation, contour irregularities, fluid accumulation, unfavourable scarring, and fat necrosis. It is important to understand the risks involved and weigh up the benefits and drawbacks of surgery before undergoing abdominoplasty.
Recovery
Recovery time after abdominoplasty may vary depending on the individual, the extent of the procedure, and the technique used. In general, patients should be prepared to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after surgery. Patients must also be prepared to take time off work and other activities (including exercise) and follow post-operative instructions to promote proper healing and minimise the risk of complications.
Results
Individual results may vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s natural body shape, the amount of excess skin and fat removed, and the surgical technique employed. It is critical to have realistic expectations about the outcome of abdominoplasty and understand that each patient’s outcome will be unique. It is also important to know that abdominoplasty is not intended to be a substitute for weight loss or replace a healthy lifestyle and exercise routine.
If you have any questions or concerns about abdominoplasty, please do not hesitate to contact us.