Posted September 28, 2018 in Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
If pregnancy, aging, or significant weight loss has left your midsection looking saggy or stretched out, you’ve likely tried everything to restore your former figure. Once the skin has stretched, the only solution is tummy tuck surgery or abdominoplasty. While deciding to undergo a major surgical procedure is a big decision, it can be the best option to regain your slim, contoured tummy. One important component of your procedure is following the aftercare instructions provided by Dr. Morales carefully. Not only will this maximize your tummy tuck results, but it will minimize the risk of complications.
Differences Between Tummy Tuck Procedures
Standard Tummy Tuck
A standard tummy tuck is most appropriate for patients with moderate sagging skin and loose abdominal muscles. During this procedure, Dr. Morales will remove some stubborn fat deposits, though he may find that liposuction is necessary to remove additional fat. He can remove stretch marks along with the loose skin of the lower abdomen, tighten the abdominal muscles, and even reposition the navel to a more natural position. He will gently tighten the skin over your new figure and trim away any excess.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck is best for patients experiencing minimal loose skin and little to no muscle separation. During this procedure, Dr. Morales will focus only on the lower abdomen. He will tighten muscles if needed and remove excess fat and skin in the lower abdominal area. The incision is smaller than for a standard tummy tuck and can be concealed under a bathing suit or undergarments.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is used for patients who have achieved significant weight loss and are experiencing severe skin sagging. This procedure will focus not just on the abdomen but also the sides (flanks), hips, and back. During the extended tummy tuck, Dr. Morales will remove excess skin, perform liposuction to remove additional excess fat, tighten the muscles, and reposition the navel. The incision for this procedure wraps around the tummy and the hips and may extend onto the lower back. The length of the scar is tailored to your needs and goals, and it will likely fade over time and can be concealed under a bathing suit.
Recovery Process
- The duration of your recovery ultimately depends on how extensive the procedure is that you have chosen. A mini tummy tuck will have the shortest recovery, followed by a standard tummy tuck. An extended tummy tuck will have the longest recovery period due to the extent of the procedure. Depending on the procedure, you may need to spend a night at the surgical facility.
- After your surgery, rest is of the utmost importance. Regardless of the procedure, all patients are advised to remain in bed for two to three days to ensure optimum healing of the incision sites.
- The length of time until you can return to work will depend on your procedure. Patients who have had a mini tuck typically return after two weeks. Patients who have had an extended tummy tuck may be out for up to four weeks. This will vary depending on your job duties and your body’s healing process.
To learn more about how you may benefit from a tummy tuck, contact our office to set up a consultation with Dr. Morales. Our office can be reached at (214) 827-8407.
