A tummy tuck or, abdominoplasty is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure where excess skin and tissue is removed from the abdomen for a smoother and firmer look. The abdominal muscles are also tightened. Both men and women undergo a tummy tuck. Abdominoplasty is one of the more common cosmetic surgical procedures performed in the U.S., with more than 130,081 procedures in 2018.
WHICH TUMMY TUCK IS BEST FOR YOU?
An abdominoplasty is close to a five-hour surgery which can be performed as an in-patient or an outpatient procedure. Patients are under general anesthesia for one of three tummy tucks:
1. FULL ABDOMINOPLASTY:
As identified by its name, this procedure requires a full surgery. An incision is made on the abdomen in the lowest area. An experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon like Dr. Cusimano of Louisiana will then contour the skin and muscle of the abdomen. There is a manipulation of the navel and a drainage tube is placed under the skin which will be removed within a few days.
2. PARTIAL OR MINI-ABDOMINOPLASTY:
If your small fatty deposits are located below the navel, then a partial abdominoplasty is performed. An incision is made around the belly button but it will not be moved. This is a two-hour procedure and like the complete abdominoplasty, a drainage tube to collect excess fluids is also inserted.
3. EXTENDED TUMMY TUCK:
An incision is made around the navel and between the hip. This incision extends around the sides and into the lower back. The excess skin and tissue are then removed. If you are a person who has lost a lot of weight, this procedure might be right for you.
YOUR CONSULTATION
In your initial consultation with Dr. Cusimano, he will go over your medical history, talk to you about your abdominoplasty options, take before and after photos, go over his best course of treatment for you and talks about any risks or complications which he will try very hard to avoid.
POST-OP INSTRUCTIONS
Following your tummy tuck, there will be some bruising and swelling due to stitching and bandaging. Dr. Cusimano will fit you with an elastic bandage or some form of compression clothing that is designed to help reduce swelling and to support your new abdominal contour. Dr. Cusimano will provide you with post-op instructions that must be followed to the letter in order to keep you healthy and free from infections.
CAN I ENJOY MY TUMMY TUCK FOREVER?
As a leading plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Cusimano always gets this question asked by his patients. His answer is backed by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which is that tummy tucks are designed to last permanently. However, we are human and are prone to aging, so future results cannot be guaranteed. You can help maintain your contour by avoiding weight gain and practicing a healthy diet and regular exercise.
In other words after a tummy tuck and our body weight changes. Unfortunately, it can cause the abdominal skin to start to sag in weight loss or the skin will expand due to weight gain. For these reasons, when a woman appears before Dr. Cusimano, he inquires whether they plan to have any more children. Even having a tummy tuck requires individuals to exercise and watch their diet to ensure that your nice new contour profile will last.