Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty: Effective Abdominal Contouring

Due to lifestyle factors, genetics, and the aging process, many people develop a flabby midsection. Even individuals who are at a healthy body weight may experience this issue.

Most of us desire a flat and toned abdomen, but sometimes exercise and eating right cannot help us achieve the aesthetic standards that we’ve set for ourselves. This is especially the case when it comes to sagging skin and stubborn fat. With abdominoplasty, patients can finally achieve effective body sculpting and contouring.

The Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck, also called a partial abdominoplasty, is a less-invasive variation of the traditional abdominoplasty technique. This option is ideal for patients who specifically want to achieve lower-abdominal contouring.

The incision created for this technique is shorter and does not reach either hipbone. Because of this, and because the degree of change is usually smaller, it results in a shorter and more comfortable healing process. A partial abdominoplasty also does not require the creation of a new belly button.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for an Abdominoplasty?

An ideal candidate for a full or partial abdominoplasty is anyone who has been unable to satisfactorily address a sagging belly with diet and exercise. Women who have had multiple pregnancies can significantly benefit from an abdominoplasty, since it helps them get rid of loose abdominal skin and restore their abdominal wall. The best candidates for an abdominoplasty are individuals who are non-smokers and are at or near their ideal weight. Good candidates are not pregnant or planning to become pregnant, since pregnancy can reverse the results of a tummy tuck.

Your Abdominoplasty Consultation

During an abdominoplasty, you and your doctor will discuss the results you are looking to achieve with this body-contouring procedure. He will perform a physical examination, and photographs may be taken for your records.

The doctor will also talk to you about your medical history, including medications and supplements you are currently taking. Additionally, the two of you may discuss past medical procedures, any pre-existing medical conditions, and any allergies you may have.

The doctor will tell you more about the full and mini tummy tuck procedures, and the two of you will decide on the right option for you. A date will then be set for your surgery.

How to Get Ready for Your Tummy Tuck

To achieve the best results, you will need to make sure you prepare yourself for the procedure. The doctor will ask you to temporarily stop taking medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and certain herbal supplements. These can interfere with your body’s natural healing process, impacting recovery time. You must stop smoking at least six weeks before the surgery, since tobacco decreases your body’s rate of recovery and causes complications. For two weeks after the procedure, you should continue to stay away from smoking.

The last step is preparing for the recovery process. Ensure you have the necessary items to speed up the healing process, including ice packs and loose clothing.

What Happens During the Abdominoplasty Procedure?

A full abdominoplasty surgery begins with administration of general anesthesia. After this, the doctor creates an incision stretching from one hipbone to the other. Another incision may be made around the navel in order to provide greater access to tissues higher up on the abdomen.

Next, the doctor separates the skin from the abdominal muscles. He tightens the abdominal muscles using internal sutures for a firmer abdominal wall. Liposuction is also performed with the aid of a cannula (a thin tube with a sharp end) and medical suction. This process removes excess stubborn fatty tissue.

The separated skin is stretched over the newly tightened muscles, and excess skin is removed. The doctor then proceeds to create a new navel in a position where it looks natural.

Finally, the incisions are stitched closed. A sterile dressing is applied over the operated area. It takes about two to five hours for the abdominoplasty surgery to be completed.

Abdominoplasty Recovery

After your abdominoplasty surgery is complete and you have been cleared to return home, a friend or family member will drive you home. Remember to arrange for this in advance.

Once you are home, you will need rest and allow your body to heal. The recovery process will include wearing a post-surgical elastic garment to control bruising and swelling. Pain medication will be prescribed, as will antibiotics to prevent infections.

You will need to avoid strenuous physical activities like heavy exercise and sports for a few weeks after the procedure. Time off from work will also be needed.

Results of Abdominoplasty Surgery

Abdominoplasty surgery patients experience a radical change in the appearance of their abdomen as it becomes flatter and more toned. These changes will be visible right after the surgery, but full results will not be apparent until all swelling is gone. With the help of a balanced diet and regular exercise, abdominoplasty can give you long-lasting results.

Abdominoplasty Cost

When considering a tummy tuck, cost is a common concern. The price of an abdominoplasty procedure varies from patient to patient. Cost is often affected by factors like the total time needed to perform the surgery, the techniques used, and the amount of tissue being removed.

Set Up a Consultation

If you’re interested in learning more about getting an abdominoplasty in Troy, MI, it’s time to take the first step. Arrange an informative consultation by contacting our office today.