Nip and Tummy Tuck
Perhaps the best way to shape a tummy, when diet and exercise will not work, may be a procedure called Abdominoplasty. Commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, this procedure involves an operation to removed excess skin or fat and possibly even tightens up or brings the abdominal muscles closer. Some tummy tucks are a simple operation that involves reshaping the skin on the stomach. While more invasive surgery may include removal of fat under or above the muscle wall, repositioning the belly button, and even stitching the muscles together.
With the advent of cutting edge technology, safer medicinal practices, and better training in plastic surgery through refining of the art and technique, many people are finding that it is both safer and more affordable. Currently, Abdominoplasty procedures can cost around $2500 to $8500 and up. Prices are usually determined by the type of procedure, who you choose, where you or the doctor is located, and the complexity of your particular operation. You can also find variation depending on your medical health, the necessity or additional pre-surgical tests, the operation and recovery rooms used, the type of anesthesiologists, and any post operative care you may need.
The popularity of the procedure, as well as its medical and cosmetic benefits, has encouraged surgeons to offer different financing plans to help people pay for the surgery. This is especially helpful to those whose insurance will not cover any part of the procedure. Additionally, if you have an Abdominoplasty, your insurance premiums may go up. So, be sure to reserve your coverage plan and talk to your insurance carrier.
The main reasons men and women may decide on this type of surgery may not always be cosmetic. More and more people are discovering the necessity of the surgery after pregnancy, particularly multiple births, and gastric bypass surgery. Those who have lost a lot of weight through gastric bypass or other means and find that their stomach muscles and or skin has not shrunk back into place and may need to go in for health reasons as well.
After surgery you can expect to be in pain and need bed rest for two weeks or more. The first few days you may experience swelling and intense tenderness at the operation site. This is normal, you may need to take prescription medicine to speed up healing, reduce the swelling, and reduce the pain.
You can do things to speed up recovery as well, such as not stretching too much, not moving around to much, and taking it easy during the recovery. You should not lift anything and you will need a personal care attendant. Otherwise you risk tearing the stitches, increasing the recovery time, increasing the pain, or even getting an infection. Therefore, follow all the direction the surgeon provide right to the letter, this includes how to dress the wound during recovery and how long you may have to wait before resuming normal activities.
The recovery period occurs in three stages. The first stage is post-operation and you have to remain in the hospital, this can be from a few hours to even a few days. The second stage, is when you get home. You might have to stay in bed following your doctor’s orders. The third and final stage, is to maintain your new physique. Your doctor, most likely, will give you a diet and exercise schedule to follow to optimize your recovery.
Your doctor should provide you with post operative care instructions which should include direction on medication, dressing the wound, and diet and exercise. You can expect about six months of recovery time after the surgery before all the swelling disappears and the scaring starts to heal and minimize. If you went into surgery with well conditioned muscles and on a good diet, you can expect quicker recovery results.
As with any surgery, it is best to research and use caution before undergoing surgery. This will ensure safety and honesty.