Aging, pregnancy, or losing a considerable amount of weight can make the body go through noticeable changes, especially in the tummy area. You may notice loose fatty areas and excess skin, and so you may be considering having a tummy tuck.
An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a plastic surgery procedure that is performed to smooth and tighten the tummy. Let’s talk about some of the key details about this procedure, and where you can go in Atlanta to see a renowned plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck.
What Can an Abdominoplasty Do?
An abdominoplasty may be performed for cosmetic reasons or to correct a functional problem with the skin, such as weakness. The skin is an important organ, so its integrity must be maintained for optimum health.
The tummy tuck surgery may involve the removal of excess skin and fat, tightening of muscles, and repair of abdominal wall issues. Ideally, a board-certified plastic surgeon will perform your abdominoplasty.
Patients report the following benefits after having an abdominoplasty:
- A flatter, firmer stomach
- A smaller waistline measurement
- Tighter skin on the tummy
- Reduction of stretch marks
- Tightening of the abdominal muscles
- Improved self-confidence and body image
How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
The abdominoplasty procedure begins with the patient being placed under general anesthesia. A horizontal incision is then made just above the pubic bone, and the skin is peeled back to reveal the underlying muscles and fat tissue. The muscles are then tightened with sutures, and excess skin is removed.
In some tummy tuck surgeries (depending on the patient’s preference), liposuction is also performed. This can be done for both women and men.
What Is Recovery Like?
Most people need about two weeks to fully recover from an abdominoplasty; you will likely be able to go back to non-strenuous work after about a week. Your plastic surgeon will prescribe a pain medication to mitigate your pain while you heal.
Abdominoplasty patients will need help with basic tasks like bathing and dressing for the first week or so after surgery, and they should try to avoid putting pressure on the incisions. It is recommended to wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing during this initial recuperation stage.
To make showering more comfortable, a shower chair can be used. Always follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions carefully, and contact the surgeon’s office if in doubt.
While every patient recovers from a tummy tuck differently, patients who are healthy are usually able to return to light activity within one or two weeks – and to engage in more activities after a month.
Top Tummy Tuck Plastic Surgeon in Atlanta, GA
Dr. Gregory Mackay is a highly trusted, experienced, and board-certified plastic surgeon here in Atlanta. Dr. Mackay performs tummy tucks skillfully, and our patients are very proud of the results of their plastic surgery.
Dr. Mackay will examine your abdomen and recommend the right treatment approach for you. To schedule an abdominoplasty consultation, call us today at (404) 777-9791 or use our convenient online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!
