La Jolla Abdominoplasty Candidates and Surgeons
In La Jolla, abdominoplasty, which is more commonly called a tummy tuck, is a fairly common surgical procedure. However, more people have tummy tucks done ever day than should. It’s not a procedure that is a cure all or should be taken lightly. It’s also not for those who are out of shape and looking for a quick fix or for those who want to look like super models that they see on TV.Abdominoplasty should actually be an enhancement for your own effort. For example, if you’ve recently lost a lot of weight, you might have quite a bit of loose skin left. So, although you feel healthier and stronger, you may not have the image that you want. In such cases, you might need the additional help of a surgeon.Another possibility is that you may have lost weight and gained muscle tone, but you may have a fat deposit around your middle that just won’t go away. A good La Jolla abdominoplasty specialist could help you with that, too. So, all is not lost.In fact, depending on the exact location of your problem, you might only require mini-abdominoplasty, which is a small procedure that is usually an outpatient surgery. Another possibility is that you may just need liposuction.However, if you need a full abdominoplasty procedure, you should be prepared for more recovery time. It is, after all, a major surgery. Your body will need time to cope with it.So, if abdominoplasty sounds like something that you might need, you should look for a La Jolla abdominoplasty specialist that is certified and well-respected. Then, go in for a consultation. Be sure to address all of your questions and concerns, before you agree to the procedure. That way, you can ensure the best possible results.
Tania Kern is a medical student at the University of California San Diego (UCSD). She is studying to be a plastic surgeon in La Jolla. Abdominoplasty is one of many surgeries she hopes to perform.
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What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty (or tummy tucks) is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure that is used to improve the appearance of the abdomen area. Abdominoplasty removes excess fat and skin from the abdomen area which tightens the abdominal wall. Tummy tucks are common among women who have recently given birth and people who have experienced extreme weight loss.
If you’re considering having a tummy tuck procedure done, you’re probably wondering what recovery time is like. A full recovery from abdominoplasty can take anywhere from one to four weeks and it’s recommended that patients take some time off from work to heal. Obviously, any activity that is physically stressful such as weight lifting and exercise is to be avoided during this period of time.
After surgery, some discomfort and bruising can be expected, and typically you’ll need to wear a compression garment to minimize this.
So how much does abdominoplasty cost? Well, this varies greatly from country to country. Other factors which can effect the cost of surgery are age, weight, and overall health. In the U.S., the typical costs of a tummy tuck are between $4,000 and $20,000 and there may also be additional costs involved for follow up doctor visits.
Lastly, there are a range of abdominoplasty surgeries including a complete abdominoplasty, partial abdominoplasty, extended abdominoplasty, and combination procedures.
Abdominoplasty is a very popular cosmetic surgery in today’s day and age, and from the looks of things, that trend will continue for years and years to come. While certainly not suitable for everyone, tummy tucks can be extremely effective in targeting and firming the abdomen area.
For more great cosmetic surgery information, visit the Plastic Surgery Forum at http://www.EnhancementForum.com today. It’s free to become a member so join today!
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Are You Considering a Tummy Tuck? ?
A Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck:People consider Tummy Tuck for a host of reasons. While the large majority of candidates are women who have recently had babies and are looking to get back into their pre-pregnancy clothes, men are also not far behind in choosing a Tummy Tuck procedure to get rid of their unsightly belly bulges. Older people who want to get rid of the loose skin around their midriff also consider getting this procedure done.While the increasing acceptance of cosmetic surgery may prompt many to consider undergoing the procedure, there are several factors that make an ideal tummy tuck candidate.Realistic Expectations, Physical Fitness and Future Plans:The ideal candidate has realistic expectations of the outcome of Tummy Tuck surgery. While the appearance of the abdomen and waist area improves drastically, if you are looking at surgery as a shortcut to look like Halle Berry or Hugh Jack man, you are likely to be disappointed. The procedure is not a weight loss technique, rather it is used to remove excess skin and fat that cannot be eliminated through diet and exercise alone.Other desirable attributes would include physical fitness, emotional health and non-smoking. General physical fitness will ensure a faster recovery. Since a person who is physically fit can generally be expected to be close to the ideal weight and physically active, there is less chance of piling the fat back on due to a sedentary lifestyle after the surgery. Smoking inhibits the ability of the body to heal, so a non-smoking candidate will recover faster.A person who is considering losing a large amount of weight is better off doing that first through proper diet and exercise and then using the surgery to help remove the excess, loose skin which has resulted from the weight loss. Also, women who are looking to get pregnant again should not ideally go for the surgery. The surgery proves most beneficial when the family is complete and no more children are on the way. If a woman becomes pregnant after abdominoplasty, the skin will stretch again and the only recourse is another procedure.Cost of Abdominoplasty:The cost of the procedure varies according to the requirements of the patient and clinics/hospitals where it is performed. There are three types of Tummy Tuck procedures – Traditional Tummy Tuck, Mini Tummy Tuck and Extended Abdominoplasty. These procedures vary in complexity and a qualified surgeon will be able to determine the ideal procedure for you and give you an estimate of the cost involved. The cost varies from surgeon to surgeon and hospital to hospital.To undergo the procedure in India, it costs only about a tenth of what it would cost in the UK or US.Before the Tummy Tuck Procedure:Before undergoing the procedure you and your surgeon will have a thorough discussion. Take some time to think your decision through and use your time with the surgeon to the fullest extent possible. Ask as many questions as possible and make sure that not a shadow of doubt remains in your mind.Once you decide to go ahead with the procedure, you will have a pre-surgery consultation with your surgeon. It is of utmost importance to be completely frank and honest here; your surgeon wants you to achieve the best possible results from the surgery and with no complications. If you are taking any prescription drugs or have had surgery before or have allergies, this is the time to mention it.The surgeon will want to ensure that you are healthy and fit; he will need your complete medical history and also require you to undergo routine tests for blood pressure, blood test, height, weight etc. It will also be ascertained whether your heart and lungs are fit enough for anesthesia.There will be a list of do’s and don’ts before the surgery. This may include stopping smoking because if you are a smoker it may adversely impact wound healing. You may also be instructed to stop taking some medications like aspirin or nutritional supplements. The surgeon will also advise you on what you can eat and drink before the surgery.After Tummy Tuck:The recovery will be carefully monitored and your dressings and general condition will be checked on a regular basis. The time of recovery varies according to the procedure performed and the general fitness of the patient. For a more involved Extended Abdominoplasty procedure, the recovery time is around two weeks whereas in other procedures, you may be able to leave the hospital in 2-3 days.Expect the abdomen and surrounding area to feel sore and swollen, you will be given pain medication which will help you through this stage. Normally, you may be required to wear a support girdle. This helps in reducing the swelling and speeding up the recovery process. The stitches are dissolvable and you don’t need them to be taken out in a hospital. Your surgeon will advise you on how to take care of yourself when you get home. Take it easy for a couple of weeks and you are well on your way to complete recovery.You must also ensure that the flatter abs that you have gained through the procedure is well maintained through diet and exercise. Going back to a sedentary lifestyle and paying no attention to food habits may pile the kilos back on and completely negate the positive effects of the Tummy Tuck.Benefits of Abdominoplasty:The most obvious benefits are a toned, flat abdomen and a trim waist. A slimmer waistline and flat abs improve the posture and create a more youthful look. Patients who have undergone Tummy Tuck surgery experience skyrocketing levels of confidence and self-esteem. Bulges in the lower abdomen and stretch marks that are otherwise impossible to get rid of are also eliminated by abdominoplasty
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What to Expect After a Tummy Tuck and How to Prepare
Abdominoplasty – more commonly known as “tummy tuck” – is a major surgery, and patients often have questions about what they can expect after the procedure. Preparing for your tummy tuck in advance will make your recovery go more smoothly and promise better results. If you start out in top physical condition with strong abdominal muscles, recovery from the surgery will be much faster. Prepare your body for the surgery by making good lifestyle choices, including a healthful diet, exercise, and adequate sleep.
Smoking may increase the risk of complications and delay healing. If you smoke, plan on quitting at least one to two weeks before your surgery, and do not restart for at least two weeks.. Making good lifestyle choices in advance will promote improved healing after the surgery and decrease post-operative complications. The time you spend in the hospital will be determined by what type of tummy tuck surgery you have, you could be released in a few hours, or you may need to be in the hospital for 2-3 days.
After Your Tummy Tuck
You will need someone to drive you home and help you for 1-2 days post-surgery. Avoid alcohol and products containing aspirin; avoid driving until you are no longer on pain relieving narcotics. Avoid lifting anything heavier than 5 lbs for six weeks. Sexual activity can usually begin 2-3 weeks after your surgery, depending on your own comfort level.
Avoid bathing while sutures or drains are in place, but you can generally shower approximately 48 hours after any drains have been removed. Inspect your incisions daily and make sure they are kept clean, Surface stitches will be removed 7 to 10 days after surgery; the deeper stitches are usually the type that re-absorb. An elastic abdominal support garment will replace the dressings that initially cover your incision, it will provide gentle pressure to diminish swelling and help you feel more stable, and it can be removed when needed to lessen discomfort.
Maximum discomfort will occur within the first few days after surgery, your abdomen will probably be swollen and somewhat painful, medication will control this discomfort. You may have numbness of abdominal skin and bruising, this should subside in 6 to 8 weeks. Standing in a straight, upright position will not be possible for the first week after surgery, and any strenuous activities should be delayed. Walking will be recommended soon after the surgery to minimize the chance of blood clot development or chest infection. Light activity can usually resume within 10 to 15 days, however, strenuous exercise or sports will need to be delayed for at least 6 weeks or longer.
You will have a scar around your belly button and a scar that extends almost from one hipbone to the other, very low on the abdomen. These scars will be reddened during the six months following surgery, but after that these scars will lighten in color and flatten out. The scars will not show under most clothing, and although they will never disappear completely they will definitely fade and become less noticeable.
What Results Can I Expect?
A patient with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin related to pregnancy or weight loss can expect a flatter, firmer abdomen along with a narrower waistline from a complete or partial tummy tuck. The results can be long lasting if the patient exercises and eats a balanced diet to maintain a stable, appropriate weight.
Cosmetic surgery is a major step, so it is always important to consider the best ways to prepare and care for yourself following the procedure. Whether you are contemplating a tummy tuck, cosmetic laser surgery or laser hair removal , always weigh your options and discus any concerns you have with your doctor. By understanding what to expect from your cosmetic surgery , you will be able to be prepared and make the most of your experience.
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Potential Risks & Complications â Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty
What Are the Potential Risks, Complications, and Shortfalls of Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Scars â The trade off for your flatter and tighter abdomen will be surgical scars that are permanent. While no surgeon, however skilled, can perform surgery without scars, scars do usually fade with time, taking up to 18 months. Some people are genetically predisposed to bad scarring, or even formation of keloids or hypertrophic scars. While it is generally perceived that only dark-skinned people develop Keloids, the fact is that light-skinned people and people from all ethnic backgrounds can develop Keloids, hypertrophic, or “bad scars”. The plastic surgeon and/or his staff review the place of Tummy Tuck or Body Lift scars with every patient prior to surgery, in order to place them in a location that can be better hidden by bathing suits or underwear.
Bleeding â It is possible, though uncommon, to experience some bleeding during or after surgery. Should excessive bleeding occur, it might require a blood transfusion, or even emergency surgery. But most commonly, localized small amounts of blood collected under the skin (hematoma) can be easily treated through aspiration or the placement of a drain. Dr. Younai, like majority of other plastic surgeons, routinely uses drains that help remove any excess fluid or blood collection.
To reduce the chance and risk of bleeding with surgery, you must not take any blood thinners, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory, or vitamin E for 10 days prior and after your surgery.
Infection â There is a very small chance of developing infection after any surgery. You will be given antibiotics during your surgery and be given a prescription for antibiotics to take after your surgery, in order to reduce the risk of infection.
Pain â While people have varying thresholds for pain, it is an expected result from any surgery. This can be addressed through a prescribed medication from your cosmetic surgeon. Nevertheless, you should be aware that although pain medications do help reduce the degree of pain and make it more tolerable, there is no pain medication that will completely eliminate pain.
Nausea â Anesthetics, narcotics, and antibiotics do cause nausea. You will be prescribed an anti-nausea medication, both just-before, during, and after your surgery. Taking your medications with food helps to reduce the incidence and degree of post-operative nausea.
Persistent Swelling & Bruising â It is normal for skin of the abdomen, navel, genitalia, buttocks, and thighs to become inflamed, swollen, and bruised following the surgery, and to remain so for some weeks. I n rare cases, this can persist for many months or can even be permanent if patient has poor circulation. To minimize swelling and bruising after surgery patients are required to wear a support garment 24 hours a day for three weeks, and then only during the daytime for the following three weeks. Massaging these areas as much as three to four times a day is also very helpful. It is normally expected for the skin to become dry and itchy after surgery. Massaging with heavy lotion and skin moisturizer is essential. You do not need expensive creams to do so â Vaseline, Vitamin E, or any kind of greasy lotion will do. Itâs the grease that does the trick! It is good, when possible, to have your spouse or significant other to perform the massage. This helps to accustom a couple to your new look, and to reduce any trepidation that you may both be feeling.
Change in Skin Sensation â The area of abdomen, pubic area, flanks, and parts of the thighs do become numb, after this surgery. This usually resolves gradually over three to eight months, but you can have residual permanent loss of sensation or even hyper-sensitivity in some areas.
Itching, tenderness, or exaggerated responses to hot or cold temperatures may occur after Tummy Tuck, Body Lift, or Thigh Lift, but is usually short-lived and can be alleviated by moisturizing, medication, and massage.
Sutures â Most surgical techniques use deep sutures, which might spontaneously poke through the skin, become visible, or produce irritation that might require removal.
Skin Contour Irregularities â Contour and shape irregularities and depressions may occur after a tummy tuck, body lift, or thigh lift. Residual skin irregularities at the ends of the incision or “dog ears” are always possible as is skin pleating when there is excessive redundant skin. These do usually improve with massage over time, but may require surgical correction.
Fat Necrosis â As your tissues heal after surgery, sometime, some of the deeper skin fat might die. Usually, this is of no consequence, but sometimes it might produce areas of firmness or contour irregularities.
Pubic Distortion â One of the benefits of Tummy tuck and Body Lift is the lifting and flattening of the protruding and sagging pubic skin. Rarely, women develop distortion of their labia and pubic area. Usually, this corrects itself, but sometimes corrective surgery is required.
Asymmetry â Most patients have differences between the right and left sides of their body before any surgery is performed, and surgery might not be able to correct that. Therefore, even after a Tummy Tuck or Body Lift, there may not be perfect symmetry in the bodyâs appearance. Factors such as skin tone, fatty deposits, skeletal prominence, and muscle tone may contribute to normal asymmetry in body features.
Wound Separation & Delayed Healing â Wound disruption or delayed wound healing is possible. Some areas of the surgical incision in the flank, back, or buttock may not heal normally and may take weeks to heal. Some areas of the skin may even die. This may require frequent dressing changes or surgery to remove the non-healed tissue and to close the wounds secondarily. Smokers and those with diabetes, multiple medical problems, and severe obesity have a greater risk of skin loss and wound healing complications.
Seroma â Fluid accumulations frequently occur between the skin and the abdominal wall, legs, flanks, back, or buttocks. Dr. Younai, as well as, many other plastic surgeons routinely use drains in these areas in order to remove excess fluid. If you develop seroma, it can easily be drained in the doctorâs office.
Umbilicus â Malposition, scarring, unacceptable appearance or loss of the umbilicus or belly button may occur.
Allergic Reactions- In rare cases, local allergies to tape, suture material and glue, blood products, topical preparations or injected agents have been reported. Serious systemic reactions including shock (anaphylaxis) may occur from drugs used during surgery and prescription medications. Allergic reactions may require additional treatments.
“Blood Clots” (Deep Venous Thrombosis, Cardiac & Pulmonary Complications) â Lengthy procedures may be associated with the formation of, or increase in, blood clots in the veins in the legs while you are immobilized, with the risk that they will travel to other parts of your body, including your lungs. Pulmonary embolism can be life threatening or fatal in some circumstances. You can reduce this risk by moving as soon as possible following your surgery. It is important to discuss with your surgeon any past history of blood clots, swollen legs or the use of estrogen or birth control pills that may contribute to this condition. After surgery, if you experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or an irregular heartbeat, notify your doctor and seek medical attention immediately. Treatment of this complication may require hospitalization and additional treatments.
Damage to Deeper Structures â As with any surgery there is a rare potential for injury to deeper structures including, nerves, blood vessels, muscles, and lungs (pneumothorax). Treatment may require further surgery and hospitalization.
Shock â In rare circumstances, your surgical procedure can cause severe trauma, particularly when multiple or extensive procedures are performed. Although serious complications are infrequent, infections or excessive fluid loss can lead to severe illness and even death. If surgical shock occurs, hospitalization and additional treatments would be necessary.
Dave Stringham is the President of LookingYourBest.com an online resource for plastic surgery in Los Angeles. Learn more about these plastic surgeons and tummy tuck surgery procedures.
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Would Tummy Tuck be Appropriate for You?
Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is considered by most women who may considerably have unlikely tummy appearance. Elective cosmetic surgery procedure is done during a tummy tuck and can be performed when particular considerations are reached. If you fall on these criteria, and think that this is ideal for you, it is better to have a consultation appointment with some reliable surgeons in your place to discuss what is going to happen.There are certain factors that must be met before undergoing a tummy tuck procedure. You are a candidate for tummy tuck if you find excess fats in the area of your abdomen that is difficult to remove with diet and exercise. There is excess skin that sags or over hanging. There is laxity in the abdominal skin due to pregnancy, aging, and changes and also the bulging of abdominal wall because of becoming overweight or by pregnancy.This procedure will not only help you to achieve the desired figure. It also can give you the essential benefits of removing the excess fats in the abdominal area, though you may need to consider having liposuction accompanied with the tummy tuck to remove larger quantities of belly fats. If you have gone through a pregnancy period and loose some weight, your stomach maybe sagging or hanging. Surgeons would suggest for you to have liposuction in order to correct the issue.Before proceeding with having a tummy tuck you must be able to seek for a doctor that is certified by American Board of Plastic Surgery to assure that you are receiving the best and reliable service that you would want to have.
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Typical Costs Associated With a Tummy Tuck
Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure in which excess skin and fat are removed from the abdominal area. People who have areas of fat and stomach skin that are resistant to diet and exercise often choose this surgery. There are many reasons why people opt for this type of cosmetic surgery, from increasing their self-confidence to improving their appearance.
In the past, these cosmetic procedures were often associated with only the rich and famous. Today, people from all income levels choose to have plastic surgery. While the costs of a tummy tuck can vary considerably, you should always consider potential expenses as well as your payment options before you opt for this procedure.
Average Costs of Tummy Tuck Surgery
Because each surgery is unique, the typical costs associated with a tummy tuck can vary a great deal. According to most estimates, the minimum costs of a tummy tuck range between $3,000 and $5,000. Your exact costs will depend largely on the amount of skin and fat that must be removed and the amount of sculpting that the surgeon must do to obtain a good result. Other factors that will influence the total cost of your tummy tuck include your geographic location, type of anesthesia used and the length of your stay after the surgery. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a tummy tuck in the year 2003 was approximately $4,460.
Insurance and Elective Surgery
Because a tummy tuck is considered an elective procedure, it is usually not covered by most insurance plans. In some cases, however, your insurance may cover associated medical costs such as medications, preliminary exams and follow-up appointments. Always check with your individual insurance provider to determine if any part of your tummy tuck surgery might be covered by insurance.
Payment Options
Once you have decided to have a tummy tuck, you then need to determine how you will pay for it. There are a number of different options available, but you will need to consider them carefully to determine which is right for your individual financial needs. Some cosmetic surgery centers offer their own financing solutions, while you will need to look for outside help in other cases.
The vast majority of plastic surgeons accept almost all major credit cards, but you will still be responsible for paying a substantial down payment before having the surgery. Loans are another option that frequently offers lower interest rates than other financing options. Your own budget and financial resources will determine which method you choose, so compare your options carefully before you decide.
Cosmetic surgery can be a great way to improve your appearance and boost your self-image, but it is important to consider the benefits, risks and costs before you decide if a cosmetic procedure is right for your needs. Tummy tuck surgery is popular with men and women of all ages, and this procedure has become more financially attainable in recent years. Contact a plastic surgeon or cosmetic surgery center today to learn more about your many options, ranging from tummy tucks to laser hair removal . Always consider all alternatives before you decide which is right for your individual needs.
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San Diego Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure used to eliminate excess skin and fat from the middle and lower regions of the abdominal area. This is accomplished by removing excess fatty tissue and skin folds. This procedure, sometimes referred to as a San Diego Tummy Tuck, helps to smooth and flatten the midsection by reducing the size of the obtruding abdomen. Abdominoplasty is an area of cosmetic plastic surgery as the individual seeking the procedure is generally dissatisfied with their appearance.
San Diego Tummy Tuck procedures include: liposuction, skin excision and tightening of the abdominal muscles. Most procedures are completed within 2 or 3 hours on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia. Recovery time varies based on the physical condition of the individual prior to the surgery or procedure. Individuals in better physical condition prior to the operation may have a shorter recovery time, potentially 2 weeks or less compared to 3 or 4 weeks. Those who are younger may also require less recovery time than their older counterparts, but anyone in top physical condition will have an easier time than those who are not.
The best candidates for a San Diego Tummy Tuck include: women suffering from stretched abdominal muscles and abdominal skin due to multiple pregnancies, men or women whose excess abdominal fat or skin cannot be corrected with diet or exercise, or older adults who have lost skin elasticity due to the aging process. Costs for this type of plastic surgery can range from $6,000 to $12,000 depending one the type of procedure.
Roger Mason is an expert in plastic surgery and plastic surgery procedures.
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All Tummy Tucks are not Alike
If you’ve been considering a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty procedure, you might be surprised to discover there’s more than one option available.
If you have a great deal of loose skin in the abdominal area due to rapid weight loss, or a large amount of fat to be removed in order to achieve the results you want, a traditional tummy tuck will probably be the best choice. However, if you only need a small amount of contouring, a mini tummy tuck might work better for you.
What’s the Difference?
A traditional tummy tuck involves surgery under general anesthesia. It’s used to resculpt the whole abdomen, both above and below the navel—in fact, the navel usually needs to be surgically repositioned after a traditional tummy tuck. Major issues can be corrected with a traditional tummy tuck, eliminating loose folds of skin and large fat deposits. However, the traditional tummy tuck leaves a large scar, and requires four to six weeks of recovery time before you can return to your normal day-to-day activities.
A mini tummy tuck is also referred to as a “scarless” tummy tuck. This procedure only addresses issues below the navel. It’s much less invasive than a traditional tummy tuck, and can be performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation, rather than general anesthesia. While not actually scarless, the mini tummy tuck does require a much smaller incision than the traditional version.
Will a Mini Tummy Tuck Work for Me?
A mini tummy tuck might be a better option for you than the more extensive surgery if:
· Only a small amount of skin and fat needs to be removed from your abdomen
· The wall of your abdomen doesn’t protrude significantly
· If you are 10% or less above your ideal body weight
· You only need a small amount of sculpting to achieve your desired results
Mini tummy tucks are often performed on an outpatient basis. Recovery time is much shorter than that for the traditional tummy tuck. Liposuction is often also performed along with the mini tuck, allowing for additional sculpting and removal of excess fat.
How Do I Know If I Need a Traditional Tummy Tuck?
A traditional tummy tuck might be more appropriate for your needs than a mini tummy tuck if:
· You are 20% or more over your ideal body weight
· You have a great deal of loose skin that needs to be removed or repositioned
· You are committed to maintaining a healthy diet and exercise to maintain the results of the procedure
· You are not planning a pregnancy in the near future
Why Aren’t Dieting and Exercise Always Enough?
The lower abdominal muscles naturally lack the same level of support as other muscles in the body. Supporting tissue, or fascia, is only present on the front side of this muscular wall, rather than on both the front and back. This causes these muscles to have a tendency to be lax, and much harder to tone and keep toned. When these muscles are stretched rapidly and/or extensively due to pregnancy or rapid weight gain (or even rapid weight loss), they can become permanently stretched, making it extremely difficult to bring them back into a healthy tone. Even if you are otherwise fit and healthy, this lack of tone in the lower abdomen can create pouting or bulging that can make you self-conscious about your appearance.
If this situation applies to you, you might consider a consultation with a reputable cosmetic surgeon to discuss your options. If you would like more information, contact Dr. Otto J. Placik to schedule a consultation. We’d love to help you become the best you can be.
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Is a Tummy Tuck Right for Me?
While the popularity of cosmetic surgery in general has leveled off overall, the tummy tuck procedure, or abdominoplasty, has by contrast gained in popularity over the past few years. While this type of procedure is often associated with women, more and more men are also opting for tummy tucks to improve their looks.
When you’re trying a healthy body weight and attractive figure, there’s no substitute for diet and exercise. But sometimes even if you’re at or close to your ideal weight, loose abdominal skin or fat can detract from your appearance.
Causes of stubborn tummy sag include:
· Pregnancy
· Aging
· Rapid weight loss
· Genetic factors
· Abdominal surgery
Who Can Benefit from a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tucks are often chosen by women who want to regain their pre-pregnancy abdominal tone and contours, and to repair muscle separation in the abdomen caused by pregnancy. Rapid weight loss or extreme weight fluctuations in both men and women can also cause excess, sagging skin and loss of abdominal muscle tone. These conditions, too, are often repaired with an abdominoplasty procedure.
Am I a Good Candidate?
You might be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you—
· Are at a healthy weight and exercise regularly
· Have sagging skin or excess abdominal fat in spite of your weight and activity levels
· Have realistic expectations of what a tummy tuck procedure can accomplish for you
· Do not smoke
You might not be a good candidate if you—
· Are planning a pregnancy in the near future
· Are a smoker
· Are planning to lose a large amount of weight
If you are considering a tummy tuck, be sure to consult with your chosen cosmetic surgeon extensively to be sure the procedure is right for you. Many other factors can also affect the outcome of a tummy tuck, including medications you might be taking, your personal health history, your general overall health, and even the natural size and shape of your upper body. A reputable cosmetic surgeon will assess a number of factors before deciding if the procedure is right for you. He or she will also answer any and all questions, so that you, too, can be comfortable with your decision to undergo surgery.
As with all cosmetic surgery procedures, results vary between individuals. But if all necessary factors are taken into consideration, so that both you and your doctor are certain you’re a good candidate for surgery, you’re much more likely to have a successful outcome.
In the Chicago and Arlington Heights area, Dr. Otto J. Placik is an experienced, board-certified cosmetic surgeon who has performed numerous abdominoplasty procedures. If you’d like more information on tummy tucks, or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us.
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