What a Tummy Tuck Does
You may know that a tummy tuck is a procedure that can restore a slimmer, flatter midsection. It does so by removing excess fat and skin. This procedure is not intended for fat reduction, though. Depending on how much fatty tissue a person has in their abdominal area, they may also wish to have liposuction along with their tummy tuck. The abdominoplasty procedure itself focuses on correcting sagging skin and loose muscle tissue. Surgery involves a hip-to-hip incision along the lower abdomen (this incision sits below the bikini line). Dr. Dahan pulls the abdominal muscles together at the center and excises excess. The tightened muscle is carefully sutured together to make a flat surface. The overlying skin is treated in the same manner, resulting in smoother contours.
About Recovery
Abdominoplasty is known for achieving astounding results. The payoff at the end is worth the few weeks of recovery needed to assure proper healing of muscle and skin. Patients who undergo this procedure can expect mild to moderate discomfort for 1 to 2 weeks. Mobility is somewhat limited so patients cannot do housework, child care, or other light activities. These first weeks revolve around healing and allowing the muscle to settle and heal.
After 2 to 3 weeks, mobility improves enough for some patients to return to work, but not strenuous activities. It is only after 3 to 4 weeks that patients begin to truly feel like themselves again. It is at this time when the question about exercise is often posed. Patients who have a tummy tuck should not resume any kind of exercise routine until they are cleared by Dr. Dahan to do so. This usually happens between 4 and 6 weeks after surgery. Until that time, activity should be limited as instructed. Otherwise, there is a risk of sub-optimal results.
There are several benefits of having a tummy tuck. If you are interested in knowing what this procedure can do for you, schedule a consultation in our Reno office at (775) 826-4477.
