The rewards of weight loss are numerous: improved health, increased energy, boost in self-confidence, longevity and better sleep. It's difficult to find a negative aspect of weight loss unless you are among the population of weight loss successes who have dropped a massive amount of weight or have lost weight quickly, such as those who have undergone bariatric surgery. These factors can result in stretch marks, excess skin and excess fat that is resistant to further weight reduction. This excess skin and fat can become a barrier for sustaining the weight loss as it can hamper motivation and self-image.
Description
The bittersweet result of extreme weight loss can leave you feeling you still have something to hide. An abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a "tummy tuck," is an elective procedure that removes the excess fat and skin and can further improve self-confidence and help improve mobility and reduce back pain. Don't confuse a tummy tuck with liposuction, which removes the fat. A tummy tuck removes both fat and skin and may include some liposuction for optimal results.
Risks
Any surgery comes with risks, and a tummy tuck is no exception. According to MedlinePlus, there are risks with general anesthesia that include adverse reactions to the medicine, respiratory problems and cardiac arrest. Some of the risks of surgery are bleeding, blood clots and infection. Risks of tummy tucks include problems with core body temperature, which is compromised with abdominal procedures; damage to the nearby internal organs; and long-lasting nerve and tissue damage that can result in numbness.
The Procedure
The procedure is generally outpatient but can include a two- or three-day stay. It is done under general anesthesia, which means you are not conscious during the surgery and therefore feel no pain. It entails an incision in the bikini area that varies in length depending on the extent of skin and fat to be removed. It can range from the just the area between the hip bones or beyond to the buttocks or even 360 degrees around. Another incision is made around the navel. As a result of the initial weight gain or pregnancy, the fascia (connective tissue) between the abdominal muscles expands. As part of an abdominoplasty, the surgeon may tighten these muscles together with a corset-like stitch, which will not be visible. The excess skin is then pulled down, trimmed and reattached at the bikini line with a new belly button insertion that is then attached to the original opening. Drainage tubes may be attached for the first few days to keep swelling to a minimum.
After Surgery
After the tummy tuck, pain and discomfort may last several weeks. Remaining in a stooped position for the first week may be required for comfort and optimal healing. Bandages and antibiotic ointment will need changing daily and systemic antibiotic and/or pain medication may be prescribed. The scar will fade and continue to heal over time, but can take several years before the final results are realized. Your doctor will advise you on available post-operative scar treatment.
Choosing a Surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon is the most important step in the process. Interview several plastic surgeons and make sure your surgeon is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, which recommends choosing a physician with more than six years of surgical experience and at least three years of plastic surgery experience. Search for ASPS members in your area on its website. You should also ask the physician for patient references, surgeons expect this and often have a list of patients willing to share experiences. These patients will most likely consist of success stories but will give you an opinion of their experience. Ask friends and family if they know someone who has had the procedure who may be willing to speak with you.
Considerations
A tummy tuck after weight loss can be liberating for self-esteem and encourage positive changes in healthy living to continue. However, it is not a panacea for excess weight issues. Even after surgery, you'll need to pay careful attention to a healthy diet and exercise routine to maintain your results. Weight gain outside of a small range can alter the visible results of abdominoplasty. Some patients have opted for a second procedure in this case. Prevention is key.
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