It can be frustrating to follow a strict diet and exercise program and still not get rid of the loose or sagging skin on the abdomen. Did you know that even the best diet and exercise program won’t get rid of the stretched skin or separated abdominal muscles? If you’re ready to get a slimmer, flatter abdomen, you should talk to a plastic surgeon about tummy tuck surgery.
What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removes loose, sagging skin from the abdomen area and tightens the abdominal muscles. Many patients seek this surgery after significant weight loss or pregnancy. With a full tummy tuck, two incisions are made: One incision is made around the belly button, The second incision is a low, hipbone-to-hipbone incision that can be hidden by a bikini bottom or panty line.
A mini tummy tuck only requires a single lower incision and is good for patients who have less overall sagging and good elasticity in their skin. An extended tummy tuck is a full tummy tuck, but the lower incision stretches all the way out to the side of the hips to target flanks.
Is it a weight loss alternative?
Patients considering a tummy tuck need to be in good overall health. It is a body-contouring surgery, not an alternative to weight loss. If your abdomen sags and droops from pregnancy, weight loss or aging, and you are within goal weight, this surgery may be the right procedure for you. If you are planning future pregnancies or losing additional weight, you will want to delay your tummy tuck as the additional weight fluctuations will lead to more loose skin.
Can it be combined with other procedures?
Often, a tummy tuck is a major component of what’s called a “Mommy Makeover,†which is a popular combination of procedures wrapped up into a single surgical session. It typically includes breast enhancement, a tummy tuck and liposuction.
Tummy tuck surgery is a popular surgery with a high patient satisfaction rate. If you’re interested in learning more, call New Jersey Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, P.A., at (973) 243-2300 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Citron.