Tummy Tuck
Tummy Tuck Surgery on Long Island
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure for men and women that involves removing excess skin and fat from the stomach. In many cases, the surgeon will also tighten the abdominal muscles with sutures to produce a tauter, more youthful stomach.
Things to Consider
While a tummy tuck can give you a leaner, firmer stomach, it is not a substitute for weight loss or proper exercise. The results of a tummy tuck are permanent but can be greatly diminished with substantial weight fluctuations, so if you are planning on a future pregnancy, you may want to postpone your procedure. Also, a tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, though these may be removed or improved if they happen to be located on the skin that will be excised.
A tummy tuck may be right for you if you are:
- Physically healthy
- Close to your ideal weight
- A nonsmoker
- Not pregnant or not planning on becoming pregnant
- Bothered by the loose skin on your stomach
What to Expect During the Procedure
After administering anesthesia for your comfort, the surgeon will make a horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and belly button, the shape, and length of which will be determined by the amount of excess skin. The abdominal skin will be lifted and the weakened abdominal muscles repaired. If there is excess skin in the upper abdomen, a second incision may be needed around the navel. Once all repairs are complete, the skin will be drawn back down and trimmed, and a new opening will be formed for the belly button. The incisions will be sutured, leaving you with a flatter, firmer abdominal contour.
During Recovery
After the procedure, your incisions will be dressed and wrapped to minimize swelling and support your abdomen as it heals. The surgeon may place a temporary drainage tube under the skin to prevent fluid buildup. Make sure you go over any questions you have about post-operative care with your doctor. You will be slightly swollen for a few days and may experience some pain, but you can take pain medication to keep you comfortable. You will need to rest as much as you can for the first week, and you should be back to your normal activities in about 3 weeks.
Want a firmer, flatter tummy? Call 516-531-7871 today!