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.
Due to the rising popularity of the procedures, most hospitals and surgeons now offer financing options. This can be especially helpful if insurance does not cover all or a portion of any part of the procedures. You may also need to inform you insurance plan about the surgery. Your insurance rates may increase after your surgery.
The reason why some undergo a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is because of pregnancy in women or men after a gastric bypass surgery. The procedure’s recovery time will all depend on the complexity of your operation, which can be altered due to many reasons.
You will experience some pain after the procedure, but most the pain medication prescribed by the doctor will take care of that. You will also experience swelling and scarring at the site. Your doctor should also prescribe or suggest medication for this. You can expect the severity of these symptoms to last for only the first few weeks.
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.
There are three stages to the recovery process. First, you must stay in the hospital so that they can monitor you for the first few days, usually three days. This is to ensure there are no complications, such as a dangerous clot. Second, you may be sent home or to a post operational care facility. This includes complete bed rest, often three weeks or more, during this time you must have assistance to bath, dress the wound, and other necessary functions. Lastly, you doctor may give you detailed instructions for caring for your new tummy in the long run. These may include how to maintain the size and shape through diet and exercise, as well and tips to prevent hernias.
The recovery time can also shorten if you have strong abs. If you do not have very strong abs, your recovery time may be longer. The scar tissue and swelling might now go away until about six months after the surgery.
You should research your chosen surgeon and hospital well and this includes the procedures and after care policies they offer. Fining a great surgeon, hospital, and plan isn’t all you need. You should check with their history for doing this type of surgery, how long they have been doing it and consider both positive and negative feedback from their clients and the health administration.