When you look at yourself in the mirror, do you wish that you had a flatter abdominal region? Whether your tummy is not once what it was because of aging, pregnancy, weight loss, or another event, you may have unsuccessfully tried diet and exercise adjustment to no avail. If that is the case, then a tummy tuck may help you achieve the abdominal contours that you desire.
At Boulder Valley Plastic Surgery, Dr. Swail and our team are here to help you reveal your inner beauty, and if that means a smoother, flatter abdomen to you, we are here to help. Call us at 303-449-6666 today to speak with us about your surgery goals or schedule your free consultation online now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Abdominoplasty
What is a Tummy Tuck?
Often referred to as a tummy tuck, an abdominoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that is designed to remove excess tissue and fat from a patient’s abdominal region. In many cases, the procedure can restore abdominal muscles that have become weakened or separated. The result is an abdominal contour that is flatter, smoother, and more firm than it was previously. An abdominoplasty is not a replacement for a healthy diet or exercise, but rather, is designed to restore your image when these efforts have been unsuccessful.
Who is a Candidate for Abdominoplasty?
If you are unsatisfied with the appearance of your midsection and you are in good health, then you may be a candidate for a tummy tuck. If you have diabetes, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), or another medical condition that could impact the healing process, it is imperative that these are well-managed and under control prior to your surgery. It is also important that you are at a stable weight, that you don’t smoke, and that you have realistic expectations about the procedure’s results.
How Do I Prepare for My Tummy Tuck?
Every surgery is different, and Dr. Swail will advise you on what steps you need to take for your upcoming procedure. In most cases, patients will undergo lab testing and medical evaluations to confirm their health is stable enough to undergo surgery. Additionally, you may need to begin taking certain medications, adjust your current medication regime, or avoid some medications, like aspirin, all together before your procedure. If you are a smoker, it is important that you stop smoking prior to your surgery date.
What is Recovery Like After a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tucks are highly individualized procedures, and every patient’s recovery experience will be different. Your recovery time will depend on the scope of your procedure, how much correction was involved, and the size of your incision. While some patients can stand upright within a week or two of surgery, recovery may take a few months for other. Dr. Swail will review specific recovery instructions with you, such as how to care for your surgical site and any drains, medication dosages, and follow up appointments.
Will I Have a Scar After My Tummy Tuck?
This procedure will result in a permanent scar that stretches horizontally between the hips. In most cases, the scar is low enough that it can be hidden by a bikini or panties. Your scar will likely fade, however, it may take up to a year for it to fade to its permanent visibility.
What are the Benefits of Abdominoplasty?
Aside from a more desirable abdominal contour and an improved self-image, patients have experienced medical benefits following a tummy tuck. A few of these may include:
- More toned stomach muscles and improved posture. This can result in a reduction of neck and back pain for some patients, as well as enhanced overall core strength.
- Improved bladder control. Some female patients experience improvement of their stress urinary incontinence following an abdominoplasty.
- Postnatal muscle repair. During pregnancy, a woman’s abdominal muscles may separate to make room for her growing child. These muscles may not return to their rightful positions on their own, and it may be possible to surgically reunite them during a tummy tuck.
- Correction of ventral hernias. This condition results from abdominal tissue breaking through the abdominal wall and may be the result of surgeries like appendectomies and Cesarean sections. A tummy tuck procedure may be able to correct this condition.
Keep in mind that every patient and every procedure is different. Your individual recovery and results may not be the same as another patient’s, and it is important to have realistic expectations about your results.
Boulder Tummy Tuck Surgeon
If you are a Boulder-area resident who is considering a tummy tuck procedure, then Boulder Valley Plastic Surgery would love to speak with you. During your consultation with Dr. Swail, he will take the time to explain the risks and advantages of the surgery, what you can expect during recovery, and he will answer any questions that you have about the procedure to ensure you are completely comfortable and confident in your choice to undergo surgery. View the incredible before and after photos of real abdominoplasty patients and then call our plastic surgery center today to get started.