Sometimes simply dieting and exercising are not enough to take care of waistline problems. In such cases, a patient may wish to consider a tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty). A tummy tuck is the surgical removal of excess skin or fatty deposits from the abdomen, along with the repositioning of abdomen muscles into a tighter formation. This bodily enhancement procedure is designed for those who wish to have a flatter and tighter stomach. It is also helpful in remedying the vertical separation of abdomen muscles known as diastasis, which can occur following pregnancy.

Reasons for Considering a Tummy Tuck:

  • Inability of dieting and exercise to improve the abdomen area.
  • Excessive accumulation of skin following weight loss.
  • Loss of skin elasticity or diastases (loose abdomen muscles) due to pregnancy.
  • The removal of unsightly skin and fat deposits as well as the proper alignment of the abdomen muscles to produce a more flattering look.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a significant surgical procedure. Therefore, ensuring you are an ideal candidate before undergoing this operation is essential. When assessing your suitability for a tummy tuck, Dr. Ting will consider the following key factors:

  • Your overall health
  • Your weight
  • Your skin elasticity
  • The amount of excess skin and fat on your abdomen
  • Your goals for the surgery

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your abdomen, a tummy tuck can help by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the muscles.

A Tummy Tuck is Great For

  • People who have lost a significant amount of weight
  • People who have had children and have loose skin or stretch marks on their abdomen
  • People who have had a previous tummy tuck and need to have it redone
  • People who want to improve the appearance of their abdomen
  • People who want to improve their self-confidence
  • People who want to be able to wear clothes that they have not been able to wear in the past

Taking the First Steps

The first step in getting a tummy tuck is to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ting. During the consultation, Dr. Ting will discuss your surgery goals, share the surgery’s risks and benefits, and explain the costs.

This is a great opportunity to ask any questions and get to know Dr. Ting and the staff at Veritas Plastic Surgery. 

Here are some tips for preparing for your consultation:

  • Dress comfortably and in layers so that the surgeon can assess your abdomen.
  • Be prepared to answer questions about your medical history and lifestyle.
  • Ask the surgeon about their experience with tummy tucks and their results.
  • Ask about the risks and benefits of the surgery, as well as the recovery process.
  • Ask about the surgery costs and what is included in the price.
  • Bring a list of your medical history and any medications you are taking.
  • Bring photos of your abdomen that you would like to show the surgeon.
  • Be clear about your goals for the surgery.

Your consultation with Dr. Ting will be a comfortable and informative experience. There is no pressure or rush; you can ask questions or address concerns about your procedure without worry.

General Procedure

Abdominoplasty surgery lasts anywhere from one to five hours, depending on the desired look and the patient’s unique physiology. To begin the procedure, an incision is made just above the pubic bone area. This incision goes horizontally across the lower abdomen and sometimes around to the back. The skin is then stretched away from the muscle tissue, and excess skin is removed. The abdomen muscle tissue is tightened to provide a firmly contoured stomach and well-defined waistline. Finally, the incision is closed; and the skin is stitched back into place. Sometimes the procedure requires an additional incision around the navel in order to provide the desired results.

Recovery Process

Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. As the body recuperates, the patient can expect some swelling, pain, and discomfort. Medication can be prescribed to relieve any pain caused by the procedure. The stitches will be removed shortly after the surgery depending on the procedure(s) involved. Normal activities can generally be resumed within two weeks. It may take up to a year for the body to completely adapt to the new abdominal configuration. With proper diet and exercise the striking results of the surgery will be long lasting.

Other Things to Consider Before Getting a Tummy Tuck

As with any surgical intervention, a tummy tuck demands meticulous planning and execution to ensure optimal results and patient safety. Factors to consider and prepare for in anticipation of your tummy tuck surgery include:

Will I need to Request a Lot of Time Off Work?

The time you need to take off from work after a tummy tuck will vary depending on your circumstances. However, most people take at least 2-4 weeks off. If you have a desk job or a position that doesn’t require a lot of movement or physical activity, you may be able to return to work after 2 weeks. However, you may need to take 4 weeks or more if you have a more physically demanding job.

What if I Have Had a C-Section?

If you have had a C-section, you may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck. However, it’s important to discuss your individual circumstances with Dr. Ting. Sometimes, you may need to wait a certain amount of time after your C-section for your body to heal before you can get a tummy tuck.

What Happens if I Get Pregnant After My Surgery?

Pregnancy causes many changes to your body, especially your stomach. In some cases, tummy tuck results will withstand a pregnancy; in others, a touch-up procedure may be necessary. Each case is different, so talking with Dr. Ting about your unique situation is important.

Tummy Tuck vs. Mini-Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is a major surgery that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen. A mini-tummy tuck is a less invasive procedure that only removes excess skin from the lower abdomen. Whether to have a tummy tuck or a mini-tummy tuck depends on your needs and goals. 

Are There Any Risks Involved?

As with any surgery, some risks are associated with a tummy tuck. These risks include infection, bleeding, and scarring. However, the risks of a tummy tuck are generally very low. Dr. Ting and her staff at Veritas Plastic Surgery will take every precaution to reduce risk and promote a successful outcome.

How Long Will My Results Last?

The results of a tummy tuck can last for many years. However, following your doctor’s instructions after surgery and maintaining a healthy weight is essential. Should you experience a substantial weight gain post-surgery, the longevity of your tummy tuck results may be adversely affected.

Excellence in Tummy Tucks in Walnut Creek, CA

A tummy tuck is a life-changing decision, so finding a practice and surgeon you trust is important. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ting at Veritas Plastic Surgery in Walnut Creek at (925) 557-7462, and take the first step to a firmer, more toned stomach.