FAQS ABOUT TUMMY TUCKS
Most people only undergo one tummy tuck procedure during their lifetime. If this is your first you will undoubtedly have many questions about what you can expect from your surgery.
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we hear about tummy tucks, and of course, those all-important answers that you are looking for.
WHAT IS A TUMMY TUCK?
A tummy tuck is actually the slang name given to abdominoplasty surgery. This is where the abdominal muscles are tightened (and in the case of patients whose muscles have separated during pregnancy, repaired) and excess skin is removed. The result is a smoother, flatter and much more toned shape.
DOES A TUMMY TUCK OFFER THE SAME RESULTS AS LIPOSUCTION?
A tummy tuck and liposuction are two very different procedures. Both can help you to achieve a stomach that is much flatter and more attractive. However, liposuction works by removing pockets of stubborn fat and has no effect on the overall skin. Neither can it improve the abdominal muscles. If you have lax tummy muscles and excess skin, a tummy tuck procedure will invariably produce much better results.
DO I NEED TO BE PUT TO SLEEP FOR A TUMMY TUCK PROCEDURE?
A tummy tuck is an invasive procedure. Therefore, it is better and safer for patients to have a general anesthetic ahead of their surgery which will ensure that you have no awareness of the procedure, nor any pain. It is not possible to have the surgery under a local anesthetic or sedation.
WILL I HAVE SCARS AFTER MY TUMMY TUCK?
As an invasive procedure that requires an incision into your abdomen, you will have some scarring after your tummy tuck. Initially these will look very red and obvious. However, with proper care and time, your scars should eventually fade and become far less noticeable than before.
WHAT HAPPENS TO MY BELLY BUTTON DURING A TUMMY TUCK?
Our surgeon will do everything possible to maintain your natural belly button during your tummy tuck surgery. However, in some instances it may be necessary to reposition it higher on the abdomen so that it looks natural and attractive.
CAN TUMMY TUCK SURGERY ELIMINATE STRETCHMARKS?
It really depends on where your stretchmarks are. Often, when the skin is pulled tight it helps to substantially reduce the appearance of stretchmarks. However, if you are also having areas of excess skin removed, you may notice that some stretchmarks are also eliminated by doing this.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE ME TO RECOVER FROM A TUMMY TUCK?
Every tummy tuck is unique to the patient that is having it, and this means that recovery times can vary. Patients who have more extensive work done, such as the re-joining of the abdominal muscles or large amounts of excess skin removed, may take longer to heal. However, most patients should be able to resume the majority of their usual day to day activities between three and six weeks post-surgery. Our surgeon will give you more specific advice based on your individual case.
AM I ABLE TO HAVE A BABY AFTER A TUMMY TUCK?
While there is nothing to stop you from falling pregnant after tummy tuck surgery, it is important to bear in mind that the inevitable stretching of your abdomen and abdominal muscles to accommodate your growing baby could cause you to lose the initial benefits of your procedure. In fact, many patients who have previously had a tummy tuck and gone on to have babies find that they need further abdominoplasty down the line. It is therefore our recommendation that you only opt for tummy tuck surgery if you are not planning on falling pregnant.
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A TUMMY TUCK?
Candidates for a tummy tuck procedure should always be assessed on a case by case basis. Our surgeon will not only want to be sure that you are in good physical health to undergo the surgery, but also that you are emotionally well-balanced and that you have good reasons for wanting the procedure.
If you would like to find out more about tummy tuck surgery, or if you would like to arrange a consultation to see if you are a good candidate for the procedure, please do not hesitate to contact our discreet and experienced team who will be delighted to assist you.
