We know what you’re thinking. You saw "tummy tuck" and immediately thought “giant, expensive surgery that other people can afford.” We know you might even think you need one, but have never even considered looking into it for yourself. But, here’s the thing. We’re going to break it down for you and show you that a tummy tuck might just perfect for YOU.
Dr. Albright, a board certified tummy tuck plastic surgeon, can help you get the stomach and abdominal area you want for both
men and women alike. He offers free virtual consultation so you are welcome to jump on the phone to get an expert opinion quickly!
Regardless of why you have that loose, damaged skin on you belly (multiple pregnancies, weight loss, or just those stubborn fat deposits) a tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty) can be incredibly helpful in getting a more youthful look back to your stomach. And to let you in on a secret, there is no substitute to the success of a tummy tuck. No diet pill, no “minimally invasive” secret. Instead of going through the plethora of options being advertised out there, choosing to get your confidence and body to a place you love via tummy tuck is always your best and most successful bet.
So what is that tummy tuck, exactly? It’s a cosmetic surgery that removes excess skin and stretch marks, typically from the lower abdomen. It leaves a scar that is hidden under most underwear and bikini bottoms. Often a “plus” of the surgery is the ability to also rejuvenate and remove umbilical hernias and/or fix rectus diastasis while the skin is being stretched and loose skin is removed. These are often the result of pregnancies and can cause issues for women later in life. While often thought of as a rejuvenation of the stomach area, Dr. Albright can also work on the entire abdominal area during the surgery, and might even suggest liposuction to take place at the same time.
Okay, but surgery can be overwhelming to me. What’s involved? First, know that surgery doesn’t have to be a scary, terrifying thing.
Sometimes surgery is the most effective way to safely rid your body of problem areas and saggy skin. Here is a quick video to help you understand what’s involved in the surgical process of a tummy tuck. You’ll find information about the actual
procedure, general anesthesia, recovery time, scar aesthetics, and what kinds of results to expect.
As much as I’m wanting a flatter stomach, I’m worried about the scars. Yes, we hear you and we understand your concerns. While there will always be a scar from the incisions, it’s a horizontal scar purposely placed below most panty lines. It’s
located in a similar location to a C-section scar would be placed, although a bit longer. On occasion, with belly button relocation, a short vertical scar may also be present. In other tummy tuck, where are far less common, other incisions (and thus,
other scarring) might be used and seen. To read more about the different types of tummy tucks, click here.
What is recovery like and what is an abdominal binder? The first few weeks after surgery it is critical to follow the post-surgical recommendations for optimal results. Week 1-6: Dr. Albright will require the patient to maintain a flexed waist (bent over) position while standing, sitting or lying down. This is important to allow the muscles to rest. If drains are used, they will remain until the second week. Patients will be required to wear an abdominal binder 24/7, and then transitioned to a compression garment for the next 5 weeks. An abdominal binder is a wide-compression belt that envelopes your abdomen and are used to speed up the recovery process of surgery.
In most patients, walking exercise may be resumed by week 4 and strenuous activities by week 6, following no restrictions by week 8. This is different for patients where rectus diastasis repair was performed, who will need a longer 3 month recovery time. Making a commitment to your recovery journey is an incredibly important part of your decision to have a tummy tuck.
Know before deciding to have this surgery if you want any future pregnancies. It’s best to wait until you are done having children. In addition, patients benefit greatly from the help of a spouse or loved one around the house, picking up children, etc. Know your limitations and schedule to have assistance during your recovery time.
Knowing that while it might be a sacrifice now and the recovery process is longer than a non-surgical, less invasive procedure, the surgical results of a tummy tuck cannot be replicated.
