Are you someone who works out every day, especially on your abs? Are you failing to see any results?
If you answered “yes” to those questions, then you’re probably wondering why it’s hard to get rid of the fat around your abdomen. Well, the reason you aren’t able to get the toned abs you desire is that there’s way too much flab and excess skin around your abdominals.
This is something that doesn’t always go away with just exercise. But, there’s no reason to be disappointed. There are solutions to help you out and give you that toned look you’re aiming for. One of those solutions is called an abdominoplasty. In common terminology, it’s called a “tummy tuck”.
An abdominoplasty flattens the abdominal wall by removing the excess skin and fat. It also tightens the muscles in the abdominal wall.
Ideal Candidates for the Abdominoplasty
In general, men and women who’re in good health can opt for an abdominoplasty.
Women who have had children may also find the procedure to be very beneficial because it allows them to get rid of the excess skin brought on by the pregnancy and repair any of the abdominal muscles that were weakened or damaged.
Men and women, who were once overweight, can also opt for the procedure to remove the excess skin and stubborn fat deposits that refuse to go away with exercise.
You Aren’t Eligible for an Abdominoplasty If…
You’re a woman who wants to get pregnant anytime in the near future. The procedure can be done after you’ve delivered the baby. The surgery tightens the vertical muscles, which can be separated if you become pregnant. The surgery is best suited for women who aren’t planning on having any more children.
You’re someone who wants to lose weight. The ideal way to lose weight would be through exercise and healthy eating habits. An abdominoplasty is suitable for removing the excess fat and skin that may not be adjusted to your thinner body after you’ve achieved your weight loss goals.
The Abdominoplasty Procedure
There are generally two approaches to abdominoplasty.
First, you have a complete abdominoplasty, where the surgeon will cut the abdomen from one end of the hip to the other. He will then contour the skin, muscle, and tissue. Your belly button will be moved and repositioned to better fit the new contours as well. Drainage tubes will be placed under the skin for a few days after the procedure.
Second, you have the mini or partial abdominoplasty. This approach is used on people who have fat deposits below the belly button. The procedure involves the surgeon making a cut from hip bone to hip bone. However, the belly button isn’t moved in this technique.
Recovery From the Abdominoplasty Surgery
Recovery can take some time. Since it is an invasive procedure, there is bound to be some swelling and bruising. However, all this will subside in a matter of weeks. You may not be able to return to your normal activities for a few weeks and strenuous work must be avoided.
Eventually, you will start to feel better and notice the results. The procedure is known for its high success rate. Most patients report excellent results and are more than satisfied with their final appearance.
Schedule Your Abdominoplasty Consultation in Boston
Interested in learning more about the abdominoplasty surgery? Contact our office to schedule a consultation with Dr. Richard A. Bartlett in his Boston office. He will help guide you through the entire process from beginning to end.