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A tummy tuck removes excess abdominal skin and fat
and tightens the abdominal muscles for an enhanced
contour and more pleasing profile.
Multiple pregnancies can stretch a
woman's skin and stomach muscles. (If
you plan to lose weight or have future
pregnancies, you should postpone surgery).
Older individuals or those who have
lost a significant amount of weight
can benefit from a tummy tuck due to
the loss of skin elasticity that occurs
with aging. A tummy tuck may be the
procedure of choice for these conditions,
which are resistant to diet and exercise.
To balance the body, many women also
opt to have a breast lift or a breast
augmentation at the same time as the
tummy tuck. Liposuction of the abdomen,
hips, and thighs is also another common
procedure that may be performed with
a tummy tuck. For those who have lost
a significant amount of weight, an
arm lift can also be performed at the
same time as the tummy tuck.
What to expect after your abdominoplasty surgery:
- Take it easy the first day you get home from the hospital. You may get up to use the bathroom as needed. Wiggle your toes and feet to prevent blood clots in your legs. Keep your abdomen flexed at all times. Do not stand up straight.
- Continue taking antibiotics as prescribed.
- Take any pain medication as directed. Remember not to take medication that may increase bleeding or bruising.
- Begin eating light meals and progress to a regular diet as tolerated.
- Drain care: strip, empty, and record the output every 6 hours and as needed if half full. Clean the drain site with alcohol. Do not take a shower until 48 hours after the drains come out.
- No baths or hot tubs until 2 days after the drains are removed.
- Keep the incision sites clean and dry.
- You should expect some slight oozing from the incision sites- this is normal. Please call the office if you develop any of the following symptoms: redness, swelling, severe pain, cloudy drainage, shortness of breath, or dizziness.
- For the first two weeks after surgery you need to avoid any activity that will raise your blood pressure or pulse and avoid lifting heavy objects (anything heavier than a phone book).
The
best way to find out if you are
a good candidate for a tummy tuck
is to contact
us and schedule a consultation
with Dr. Goodman.
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