Posted October 26, 2016 in Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Liposuction
Of all the cosmetic surgery procedures, the tummy tuck is one of the most difficult to recover from. It is easy to put stress on the incision by simply sitting down or getting up, and your newly tightened abdominal muscles may take a while to feel back to “normal.” While recovery is definitely manageable with pain medication and planning ahead, it is safe to say no one wants to go through the process twice. Here are a few steps you can take to help ensure you get the best results from your tummy tuck so that revision surgery doesn’t have to be considered.
Have Realistic Expectations
Many patients are unsatisfied with their tummy tuck results because they may have had unrealistic expectations to begin with.
Before surgery, patients should know that:
- The tummy tuck is not a procedure for weight loss.
- It will not remove stretch marks unless they fall on the skin that is to be removed.
- Liposuction should sometimes accompany the procedure to get the best results.
- There will be a scar across the pelvis that can be hidden beneath most styles of swimwear and underwear.
Communicate Your Goals
Since every patient’s physical anatomy and goals for the procedure are different, Dr. Morales provides a completely customized surgical approach for each patient. It is important to communicate your desires during your consultation, whether your concerns are length of surgery and recovery time, length of scars, sagging skin, excess fat, and/or the extent of correction necessary. Dr. Morales can create a surgical plan that will meet your needs as long as you communicate your goals and concerns during your consultation.
Remain at or Near Your Ideal Weight
Tummy tuck surgery can be performed if you have not arrived at your ideal weight, but for optimal results, it is best if your weight-loss journey is complete and if you have maintained your weight for at least three months. If you lose or gain a significant amount of weight after surgery, it can impact your results. However, your body will still maintain the basic sculpted shape that you acquired from your tummy tuck.
Follow Postoperative Instructions
Dr. Morales will give you detailed instructions regarding how to care for your incisions, what kind of strenuous activity to avoid and for how long, and what supplements and medications to take and to avoid. He will also likely advise you to wear a compression garment to help your body conform to its new shape. Closely following these instructions will encourage the healing process for a faster recovery and a better final outcome.
Choose an Experienced Surgeon
The best way to ensure superior results with a tummy tuck is to choose an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. David Morales is board certified in plastic and reconstructive surgery by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and graduated from the prestigious Harvard Medical School. He has performed countless tummy tuck procedures that have led to deeply satisfied, confident patients.
To schedule your consultation with Dr. David Morales, please call (214) 827-8407 or fill out our online contact form today.
