
Tummy Tuck
Author: Erich Shrefler
Turn on late-night television any night of the week and you will see paid advertisement after paid advertisement for the “perfect” way to get a sleek, toned abdominal area. Whether it is a new cardio workout, a new piece of equipment or even a new diet program, it is apparent that people are clamoring for beach-ready bodies.
Unfortunately, some people are simply unable to rid themselves of stubborn abdominal fat and sagging skin even though they appear to do everything right. With a little help from a qualified cosmetic surgeon, both men and women in this predicament can achieve the bodies they desire.
An abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is an excellent option for healthy individuals who wish to have excess fat and skin removed from the abdominal area.
Tummy Tuck Options
There are different tummy tuck procedures to meet the needs of each unique patient. The cosmetic surgeon should assess the patient’s body type and desired results to tailor the surgery to meet those expectations.
- Full abdominoplasty: This is the most intense procedure that is used for people who require the greatest amount of skin and fat removal as well as muscle tightening. A low, pubic line incision is made between each hipbone. From this incision, the surgeon can contour the abdomen and pull the upper abdominal skin down to firm the area. A new navel opening is created in this procedure.
- Mini or partial abdominoplasty: If the excess fat and skin is located below the belly button, this procedure is generally the preferred method. A shorter incision can be used to remove the excess skin and fat, and the navel is not moved.
- Circumferential tummy tuck or body lift: This technique is performed when there is a great deal of excess skin to be removed, such as patients who have experienced significant weight loss. It may even be necessary to remove skin from the waist and skin. Muscles will also be tightened.
- Modified tummy tuck: Some patients have weak abdominal muscles that cause a tummy bulge, but not much sagging skin. This technique will help to tighten those muscles and may include a very minimal amount of excess skin. The navel will remain mostly in tact.
Tummy Tuck Misconceptions
A tummy tuck is not:
- Liposuction, although this technique is often used in conjunction with a tummy tuck
- A weight loss solution
- For individuals who plan to lose significant weight in the future
- Recommended for women who plan to become pregnant in the future
- Recommended for people with a history of anorexia or bulimia
Risks and Complications
Abdominoplasty is a serious invasive surgery, and as such there are potential complications that can arise, including but not limited to:
- Swelling
- Soreness/pain
- Bruising
- Infection
Conditions such as diabetes; poor circulation or heart, liver or lung disease can increase these risks. Smokers and nicotine users also have an increased risk of serious complications.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/plastic-surgeries-articles/tummy-tuck-1343578.html
About the Author
Florida-based cosmetic surgeon Dr. Brian Joseph is board-certified to expertly perform abdominoplasty procedures. If you would like a complimentary tummy tuck consultation and live in the Florida area, please visit the website of Park Avenue Plastic Surgery today.
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