The tummy tuck is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world, and for good reason. With many benefits including a tighter, flatter abdomen, it’s no wonder this procedure became a household name. That being said, there’s still a lot patients who don’t know about what they can expect from their tummy tuck. Let’s go over our top five things you need to know before coming in for your tummy tuck consultation.1. A Tummy Tuck Alone Doesn’t Get Rid of Your Unwanted Fat
We always have patients coming in saying they want a tummy tuck to reduce their unwanted fatty bulges in addition to removing their excess skin. And while this can be done all at once, a tummy tuck by itself won’t be able to do that. Doctors often recommend combining gentle liposuction with a tummy tuck to remove these stubborn fatty bulges. It’s important to remember that these procedures are separate, but can be performed together to produce ultimate results.
2. A Tummy Tuck Doesn’t Help You Lose Weight
One of the biggest misconceptions that we hear from our patients is that a tummy tuck is going to help them lose weight. We can’t stress enough that cosmetic surgery of any kind is not a replacement for a healthy diet and regular exercise. While a tummy tuck may help you better fit into your pants by reducing your loose skin, we recommend losing the weight first so we can contour the body.
3. The Results of Your Tummy Tuck can Last a Lifetime
Believe it or not, the results of your tummy tuck can last a lifetime. We’re not kidding! By leading a healthy and active lifestyle, you can maintain the results of your tummy tuck without even having to think about it. The key is maintaining your weight following your cosmetic procedure, as weight gain, pregnancy and other major physical changes may disrupt these results.
4. A Tummy Tuck Will Leave an Easy-to-Hide Scar
During a tummy tuck, an incision will be made from hip to hip, but the exact length is determined by the amount of loose skin a patient has. This incision allows your doctor to remove excess fat via liposuction and tighten your weakened abdominal muscles before pulling the skin tight over your belly and trimming away excess skin. While this will leave you with a scar from hip to hip, the scar is thin and hidden right at the bikini line. Our patients report it being easy to hide even while wearing a bikini.
5. Your Tummy Tuck Results Will Take Time
Unlike Botox® or other minimally invasive procedures, a tummy tuck will take time to heal from. Patients report being able to return to work within about two weeks of their surgery, but don’t typically see their desired results until a few months in after all their swelling subsides. It’s important to remember that cosmetic surgery is still surgery, and it will take time to recover and see the results you want.
If you’re interested in learning more about what you can expect from a tummy tuck, we encourage you to contact us and schedule your private consultation with Dr. Leverett today. In light of recent events, we are also happy to offer patients a virtual consultation with our expert staff. These flexible consultations allow you to get all of your questions answered in the comfort and safety of your very own home.