Losing weight and exercising are not necessarily enough to tone and firm your stomach.
Depending on your physique, you may want to get a tummy tuck to restore your abdomen’s former appearance. You can decide if this operation is right for you by learning what a tummy tuck is and what benefits it can offer to you.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is an operation that is also known as an abdominoplasty. It is performed to remove excess skin and fat from the stomach. It also restores strength to weakened or separated muscles.
In some instances, a tummy tuck likewise creates an abdominal profile that is more toned and firmer. This surgery is not designed, however, to take the place of a weight loss or exercise regimen. In order to maintain the results of the surgery, you must commit yourself to exercising and eating a healthy, balanced diet to avoid gaining more weight.
In fact, doctors do not recommend this surgery for people who plan on gaining or losing more weight or to women who plan on having more children. These individuals are encouraged to wait until they reach their ideal body weight or decide not to have any more children before undergoing a tummy tuck.
Why Undergo a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck can be a highly recommended procedure for anyone who wants a firmer and more toned abdominal appearance. This surgery can remedy excess skin and fat in the stomach as a result of:
- Aging
- Pregnancies
- Genetics
- Prior abdominal surgery
- Fluctuations in weight
Further, this surgery offers numerous benefits to patients like:
- Reducing urinary incontinence
- Improving abdominal tone and posture
- Corrects ventral hernias that occur when the intestine protrudes from the abdominal wall
A successful tummy tuck can also eliminate up to 10 pounds of excess skin and fat from the abdomen.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
Recovering fully from a tummy tuck can take between four to six months. During the first two to three weeks after your surgery, you can expect to experience stiffness and soreness in your stomach. You also may experience a moderate amount of pain for which you may be prescribed pain medications. It is important, however, that you attempt to walk at least once a day to prevent the formation of blood clots. You also should learn how to change your bandages and draining tubes prior to coming home from the hospital.
Your doctor will advise you to avoid heavy lifting for the first month to two months after your surgery. Strenuous activities can cause your sutures to come out and open your surgical incisions. It can also cause hemorrhaging and infection.
When you are fully recovered, you should notice the immediate results of your tummy tuck. You can maintain them by avoiding gaining more weight and by eating a healthy diet. When you fail to achieve the toned, firm appearance you want with diet and exercising, you may get the desired results by undergoing a tummy tuck.