No matter how much you exercise, loose skin or damaged abdominal muscles can mean that you never achieve the flat, toned stomach you’re looking for. This is especially common after pregnancy or significant weight loss. Thankfully, tummy tucks are available to help patients reduce this excess tissue and repair the muscles. If you’re considering a tummy tuck, here are the things you need to know about the procedure before you schedule your consultation.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure that gives one a smooth and firm abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and restoring weakened and separated muscles. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, and if your post-surgery weight changes significantly, the results of your tummy tuck become less visible. Most patients actually choose to have their tummy tuck with Dr. Bohley after weight loss following pregnancy, diet and exercise, or bariatric surgery.
As you age, the production of collagen and elastin reduces. These two proteins maintain the elasticity of the skin. Major weight loss and pregnancy result in loose skin and weakened or damaged muscles. It is impossible to restore the sagging skin and muscle tone to get a flat abdomen, even with regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.
Good Candidates for a Tummy Tuck
If your abdomen’s appearance is a bother to you, and are in good general health with stable weight, then you are a candidate for this procedure. You must also be a non-smoker and have realistic expectations of the tummy tuck. If any adult meets these criteria, they can undergo the procedure with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Bohley, because age and gender are not contraindications.
After being assessed for any health risks, more seniors are undergoing this surgery to reclaim their youthful appearances. While older people generally take longer to recover and may be more prone to complications, there are several types of abdominoplasty procedures ranging from full abdominal surgery to less invasive procedures that Dr. Bohley can perform after assessing each patient.
Both men and women can undergo abdominoplasty. The only difference is usually in the aesthetic goals and expectations because women tend to desire small waists with tight and toned abdomens. Men, on the other hand, want a flat, strong, athletic V-shaped abdomen. Women also tend to require more extensive procedures, especially after pregnancy, as they have more sagging skin and separated muscles. These differences influence the technique and extent of the procedure performed in men and women.
When Will You See the Results of a Tummy Tuck?
After Dr. Bohley performs your tummy tuck procedure, you will experience post-surgery swelling, which prevents you from seeing the tummy tuck’s actual results. The swelling reduces gradually after a few weeks from when you will begin to notice a slimmer, firmer, and flatter abdomen. It is important that you follow all the post-surgery instructions given to you by Dr. Bohley for a full recovery and the best results.
Find Out More
Dr. Bohley is a highly skilled and experienced cosmetic surgeon who will help you achieve your aesthetic goals in the safest way possible. To have all your questions regarding the tummy tuck procedure answered, schedule your consultation with Dr. Bohley. Contact us today, at (503) 213-9914 or visit our contact page.
