It can be difficult to get rid of excess fat in the abdominal region. If you’ve tried to flatten your midsection through diet and exercise with minimal to no success, a tummy tuck may be worth considering. It’s a particularly good option if you’ve gone through pregnancy or lost a significant amount of weight. Let’s dive deeper into what a tummy tuck is and when you should schedule this procedure.
How a Tummy Tuck Works
During a tummy tuck, a board-certified surgeon will place an incision along your lower abdomen. Next, they’ll make another incision so that they can separate your navel from the surrounding tissue. Then, sutures will join the abdominal muscles and leave you with a flatter midsection and smaller waistline. The surgeon will remove excess fat and skin before closing the incisions and applying a sterile dressing.
Following a tummy tuck, you might face a bit of swelling and discomfort for a few days. The good news is medication can alleviate it. You should walk around to help prevent blood clots and avoid strenuous physical activity for at least a month or so.
Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
There are a number of benefits you can enjoy after you undergo a tummy tuck. First and foremost, a tummy tuck will get rid of loose hanging skin and give you a smooth, taut abdomen. You’ll notice a smaller midsection and feel more confident in and out of clothing. If stretched abdomen skin bothers you, a tummy tuck is an ultimate solution. It’s a great way to improve your self-esteem and overall quality of life.
When to Get a Tummy Tuck
The ideal time to get a tummy tuck depends on your unique situation. Consider factors like your weight, job, personal responsibilities, available time off work, and health status. It’s common for patients to schedule a tummy tuck in the summer or during the holidays when they have more time off. It’s important to wait until you’re done having children before undergoing this procedure.
Regardless of when you move forward with a tummy tuck, you’ll need to take some time off work and ask for help around the house, especially if you have children. While your complete recovery will likely take between three to six months, you may be able to resume your daily routine after a few weeks. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation to learn more about a tummy tuck and figure out the best time to receive one.