At Real Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery, Dr. Stephen Salerno performs what are known as tummy tuck procedures for women and men who want to improve their appearance and self-confidence.
Real Cosmetic & Plastic Surgery is located in Moonee Ponds just outside Melbourne. To learn how you can benefit from a tummy tuck, or to make an appointment, contact Real Cosmetic today.
Known in the medical world as abdominoplasties, tummy tucks are performed to remove unwanted skin and fat from the abdomen. In addition, the surgery rebuilds weak muscles to create abdomen that are smoother and firmer in appearance.
The most common causes of oversized stomachs that can be treated by a tummy tuck are:
- The aging process
- A family history of weight issues
- Pregnancy
- Prior surgeries
- Significant weight loss or weight gain
Tummy tucks do not replace the need for proper diet and exercise if you want to lose excess pounds and keep the weight off.
The benefits patients gain from tummy tucks can be reduced by weight fluctuation. If you plan to lose a significant amount of weight, or if you want to become pregnant in the future, you are likely better off postponing a tummy tuck until later in life.
A tummy tuck may be an effective procedure for you if:
- You are in good health and maintain a stable weight
- You have realistic expectations about results the procedure can provide
- You are a non-smoker
Tummy tucks are a deeply personal decision, which only you can make.
Preparing For Surgery:
Prior to having a tummy tuck performed, you may need:
- Lab tests and a medical evaluation
- To take certain medications, or revise or stop medications you are on
- To stop smoking
Tummy tuck patients also should avoid aspirin, some supplements and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Recovery:
During the recovery period, bandages may be placed on your incisions. You may also wear an elastic bandage or compression garment. These reduce swelling and aid the healing process.
You also are likely to have tiny tubes placed under the skin to help drain excess fluids and blood.
Some potential risks include:
- Accumulation of fluid under the skin: Drainage tubes help reduce the risk of this occurring. Your doctor may also use a syringe to remove fluid post-surgery.
- Poor Healing: On occasion, areas that run along the incision line can heal poorly or start to separate. You may receive antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Scars: The incision scar that is produced during a tummy tuck is permanent. It typically is placed along the bikini line, so it can be easily hidden from view. Scar length and visibility varies from patient to patient.
- Necrosis: During tummy tucks, fatty tissue located within your skin may be damaged, or die. Smoking hikes your risk of developing tissue necrosis. Skin can heal on its own, or you may need a follow-up procedure.
- Skin Sensation Changes: The repositioning of abdominal tissues during surgery can impact sensory nerves in the area of the abdomen and, more rarely, in the upper thigh area. You may feel numbness or reduced sensation for a time. This usually goes away over time.
Like all major surgeries, tummy tucks carry a risk of infection, bleeding and a bad reaction to anesthesia. To learn more about tummy tucks, or to set up an appointment, contact Dr. Salerno’s office today.
