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Questions To Ask When Considering a Tummy Tuck7 min read

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Embarking on the beautiful journey of motherhood, Michelle revels in the joys and challenges that come with her newfound role. Embracing this life-changing experience, she contemplates the possibility of a tummy tuck to regain her pre-pregnancy figure. Uncertain of what questions to ask and what factors to consider, she seeks guidance and knowledge to make an informed decision about this transformative procedure and, ultimately, her body’s future. That’s where a seasoned practitioner like Dr. Chang shows his expertise. Within just one complimentary consultation, Michelle has had all of her tummy tuck questions answered and decided to go on with this procedure!

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat, as well as tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. This procedure is popular among patients who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, all of which cause the skin to lose elasticity and the abdominal muscles to weaken or separate.

How Is a Tummy Tuck Done?

Tummy tucks are performed by board-certified plastic surgeons under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. Although the specific technique may vary depending on your goals and the surgeon’s preferences, here’s a general overview of how an abdominoplasty is performed:

  • Anesthesia: Dr. Chang will administer general anesthesia to ensure your comfort during the procedure.
  • Incisions: Dr. Chang creates a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen (from hip to hip), typically between the pubic hairline and the belly button. The length and shape of the incision depend on the amount of excess skin to be removed. Sometimes, a second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin from the upper abdomen.
  • Muscle tightening: Dr. Chang lifts the skin and fat layers to expose the underlying abdominal muscles. These muscles are then tightened and sutured together, creating a firmer abdominal wall and a slimmer waistline.
  • Skin removal and repositioning: Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is redraped and repositioned over the tightened muscles. Dr. Chang trims any excess skin away and closes the incisions with sutures.
  • Navel repositioning: If necessary, the belly button is repositioned to maintain a natural appearance after the skin has been tightened. A small incision is made in the newly positioned skin, and the belly button is brought out through the incision and sutured in place.
  • Closing the incisions: Dr. Chang closes the incisions using sutures, skin adhesives, or surgical tape. Drains may be placed under the skin to collect excess fluid and reduce swelling, although only in rare instances.
  • Recovery: The patient is moved to a recovery area, where they are closely monitored as anesthesia wears off. Compression garments or bandages are typically applied to the treated area to minimize swelling and provide support during the healing process.

Is a Tummy Tuck Painful?

Yes, it is possible to combine a tummy tuck with liposuction. In fact, many patients opt for this combination to achieve more comprehensive and satisfying results! Abdominoplasties primarily focus on removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles, while liposuctions remove localized fat pockets. By combining these two procedures, you can benefit from both a firmer, flatter abdomen and an improved body contour!

Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if you are a suitable candidate for both procedures and to discuss your goals and expectations. They will evaluate your overall health, medical history, and specific needs to develop a customized treatment plan that achieves the desired outcome while minimizing risks and complications.

How Long Is Tummy Tuck Recovery?

Tummy tuck recovery is a gradual process, and the timeline can vary depending on factors such as the patient’s overall health, the extent of the procedure, and the body’s natural healing response. On average, most patients return to work within two to four weeks following the surgery. However, it is essential to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercise for at least six weeks or as recommended by Dr. Chang.

Patients experience side effects such as swelling and bruising during the initial recovery phase. They typically improve over the first few weeks. Wearing a compression garment, as advised by Dr. Chang, will help reduce swelling and support the healing process.

Following Dr. Chang’s post-operative instructions and attending all follow-up appointments is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery and minimize potential complications. Remember that healing takes time, so you must be patient and allow your body to recover fully.

The final results of a tummy tuck, including a flatter, more toned abdomen, will become more apparent as swelling subsides and the incisions heal. The full outcome may take several months to be visible, and scars will continue to fade over time, eventually becoming less noticeable. We know you’re anxious to flaunt your perfect abdomen at the beach but trust us, the results will make it worth your patience!

What Will My Tummy Tuck Healed Scar Look Like?

The appearance of your healed tummy tuck scar will depend on several factors, including: 

  • Your body’s natural healing process 
  • The surgical technique used 
  • How well you follow Dr. Chang’s post-operative care instructions

In general, abdominoplasty scars are horizontal and located across the lower abdomen, just above the pubic hairline. The length of the scar can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the amount of excess skin removed. In some cases, there may also be a small scar around the navel if it was repositioned during the surgery.

Initially, tummy tuck scars are red, raised, and noticeable. However, as the healing process progresses, the scars will typically fade and become flat. To promote optimal healing and minimize scarring, follow Dr. Chang’s post-operative care instructions, which may include:

  • Avoiding sun exposure on the scar to prevent discoloration
  • Applying silicone gel sheets or topical treatments to the scarred tissue
  • Gently massaging the scar once it has healed enough to tolerate touch

It’s important to note that while the scar will fade over time, it may not disappear entirely. However, Dr. Chang will skillfully hide it within the body’s natural creases, where it will easily be concealed by underwear or swimwear.

Can I Only Get a Tummy Tuck After Pregnancy?

Not at all! Tummy tucks are not exclusively designed for new mothers. While the procedure is more prevalent among women who want to restore their pre-pregnancy body after childbirth, it is also suitable for all patients who have experienced significant weight loss, aging, or other factors that have led to excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles. The primary goal of a tummy tuck is to improve the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and tightening the underlying muscles, making it a viable option for various candidates, not just post-pregnancy women.

Got the Tummy Tuck Answers You Need? Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Chang Today!

Ready for the ultimate body contouring experience? Come meet with us at 19500 Sandridge Way, Suite 350, Leesburg, VA 20176, or call us at (703) 574-4342 for a complimentary consultation with Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Phillip Chang before moving forward with your procedure! If everything matches up, our team will help you navigate the entire process, from beginning to end! Also, don’t forget to check out our blog and social media for more information on plastic surgery and plastic surgery trends!

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