Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is a popular plastic surgical procedure due to the high degree of satisfaction among patients who have had it done. But if you’re new to the world of plastic surgery, you might be wondering what exactly it can do for you. 

If you’re considering the procedure, it’s important to know some essential facts before you do anything. Here, we’ve compiled some of the common questions patients ask before undergoing the procedure. Hopefully this helps you learn more about a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and guides you in your decision.

Here’s what you need to know:

What Aesthetic Concerns Do Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty) Address?

Tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) can address a wide range of concerns, from minor to major. However, most people decide to undergo the procedure because they want a flatter, more toned abdomen, which can be achieved by excising excess skin and fat.

An abdominoplasty can even out the contours of your tummy, making it an excellent choice for those who have extra skin after pregnancy. It can also be a good alternative to other procedures, such as liposuction, which sometimes removes excess fat around the abdomen.

What Should I Expect and Prepare for the Procedure?

One of the most important things to know about the procedure is that it’s not a one-size-fits-all procedure. The amount and type of skin that you can have removed and the degree of muscle tightening that you may require are dependent on your unique body type.

This means that a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure that works for one person may not be right for another. If you’re looking for a surgeon, one of the best things you can do is find one that is highly experienced and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, (ASPS) and the Australasian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS).

Your surgeon will be able to assess your body and evaluate your physical health before deciding on the best approach for your skin and muscle tightening.

What Does Post-Surgery Recovery Entail?

Abdominoplasty is a major surgical procedure, and therefore has a lengthy and involved recovery.  However, it’s necessary to get the most out of the surgery and achieve the best results. The recovery process takes around four to six weeks.

It’ll be challenging in the first few weeks following surgery, and you’ll likely be on bed rest while you heal. This is a major commitment and is one of the most common questions that people ask shortly before they’re scheduled for surgery. We’ll go into more detail on preparing for recovery if you’re considering the procedure.

Are the Results Permanent?

Just as with any other cosmetic procedure, the results of a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) will be permanent. However, it’s important to remember that your body will continue to change over time, particularly if you lose or gain a significant amount of weight.  Patients that have further pregnancies after undergoing an abdominoplasty procedure will re-stretch their skin and muscles and may require further subsequent surgical correction.

The Bottom Line

Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is a highly effective way to help someone reshape their body and achieve the results they’re looking for. It’s a commonly performed plastic surgery procedure, but requires a significant recovery period.

If you’re still interested in getting a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) but have some reservations, ask yourself some crucial questions about the procedure and recovery. Then, find a highly-skilled and experienced plastic surgeon who can help you navigate the recovery process and get the best results possible.

If you want to improve your body through a tummy tuck  (abdominoplasty), we can help you. The Lotus Institute offers cosmetic, plastic and laser surgery and non-surgical treatments. You can trust our team of qualified and highly skilled surgeons, nurses, and staff to give you the best care possible. Contact us today to learn more about our services.