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If you’re considering a tummy tuck (also known as an abdominoplasty), you’ve probably researched the life changing benefits the procedure can bring. A tummy tuck results in far more than cosmetic enhancement — it’s a transformative procedure.
Whether you’re dealing with stubborn stomach fat or post-pregnancy excess skin, this procedure may be the option that gives you a new lease on life. However, you may have tummy tuck questions that you need answered before you choose to undergo the surgery.
It’s important to create a list of questions to ask before a tummy tuck to ensure you’ve connected with a trusted and credible plastic surgeon, and you understand how the procedure can impact your life.
What does a tummy tuck involve?
A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal region and restores your abdominal muscles. Individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or have large amounts of loose skin post-pregnancy can greatly benefit from this procedure.
The tummy tuck can improve your stomach’s contour and physical appearance which can lead to a self-confidence boost and a more beautiful you. However, it’s vital to ask your surgeon questions before a tummy tuck to ensure that you’re an ideal candidate for the procedure.
Factors such as your medical history, abdominal scar tissue, and physical frame can have an impact on your decision.
Tummy tuck questions should be posed in your initial consultation
Before you schedule your procedure, a great plastic surgeon will schedule you for a pre-operative consultation. This appointment allows you to discuss your tummy tuck questions with your surgeon.
The pre-operative consultation is an opportunity for you to receive answers to the following:
- Any concerns you may have about the procedure
- Expectations you have for your tummy tuck results
- The risks involved with an abdominoplasty
- Your surgeon’s experience and qualifications
- Realistic post-tummy tuck goals
- Estimated recovery time
- Scarring
- Whether or not you’re an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck
This consultation helps to ensure that the questions you have about a tummy tuck are satisfactorily answered, and that you feel well-informed, prepared, and at ease about scheduling the procedure. You should only schedule a tummy tuck if you feel that your surgeon’s experience and qualifications support the complexity of the surgery.
7 tummy tuck questions to ask your surgeon
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recommends an extensive list of questions to ask if you’re considering a tummy tuck that can provide you with the thorough information you need. Here are 7 of the most important questions to ask your surgeon.
Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
If the plastic surgeon you’re considering to perform your tummy tuck procedure answers “yes,” this means that they’ve had extensive training, and passed comprehensive tests that cover plastic surgery procedures.
A certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery may help you to feel that you’re in knowledgeable and reliable hands. You should also ask your surgeon about the medical licenses they hold, the years and level of their experience with this procedure. Extensive tummy tuck experience is imperative.
Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
Although a tummy tuck may be a great option for people from all walks of life, it’s not the answer for everyone who longs to change their physical appearance. For example, if you have not yet hit your target weight, and lose or gain significant weight after your procedure, the results of a tummy tuck could drastically change.
Similarly, if you’re considering a tummy tuck due to excess skin caused by pregnancy, but still want to have more kids, this may not be the right procedure for you.
What surgical technique will you use?
Ask your surgeon about their preferred techniques, the technological tools they use, and why they use specific tummy tuck methods. This can help to clarify what you should expect and what your recovery and scarring may entail.
For example, at Quintessa Aesthetic Center for Plastic Surgery locations in Wisconsin, the plastic surgery team uses a ground-breaking drainless tummy tuck technique that eliminates the need for post-surgery draining. This method, along with other technological advances in the field, may contribute to the best results and recovery.
As the tummy tuck requires the use of anesthesia, it’s also important to ask what type of anesthesia will be used, ask for information about your anesthesiologist, and understand how the anesthesia may affect you.
Do you have before and after photos of past tummy tuck patients?
A credible plastic surgeon will have a tummy tuck “before and after” patient photo gallery that you can peruse. Seeing the tangible results your surgeon has provided can help you measure your expectations accordingly.
How long is the recovery period after a tummy tuck?
Although the tummy tuck is an extremely popular, standard procedure, it is complex and will require postoperative rest and recommended guidelines. Your plastic surgeon should be able to inform you about any preoperative preparation you’ll need, the standard amount of time to anticipate spending in surgery, and the time you’ll need to recover correctly.
For instance, you may need to avoid heavy lifting and have a loved one available who can assist you in the first weeks of the tummy tuck recovery process.
What results can I expect after my tummy tuck?
The results of a tummy tuck can be transformative. However, they can also vary based on a patient’s personal medical history, weight, body frame, and other factors. An excellent plastic surgeon will be transparent about the results you can expect, and will give you the information you need to realistically set your short and long-term goals.
How long will tummy tuck results last?
Although lasting results may differ from patient to patient, your surgeon will consider your level of sustained fitness and weight when answering this question. Significant weight gain or loss or pregnancy post-surgery can alter these results, too.
Look for an honest and detailed answer from your plastic surgeon to ensure they are the right doctor to perform your procedure.
Understanding the risks of a tummy tuck
Every surgical procedure comes with possible risks. However, in capable hands, a tummy tuck shouldn’t present unnecessary risk and is considered a safe procedure. Nevertheless, your plastic surgeon should inform you about the risks and possible complications associated with a tummy tuck.
Some of the risks associated with a tummy tuck may include:
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- infection
- Pain and swelling
- Scarring
Steps to take before your consultation
You should research plastic surgeons in your area who specialize in tummy tucks to find the right surgeon for your needs, You may also want to take the following steps:
- Read online reviews and patient testimonials:
Patient feedback is the best way to assess a surgeon’s strengths and weaknesses in patient care, including bedside manner and follow-up care.
- Prepare your medical history to share:
Make sure you have any vital medical records available to share with your plastic surgeon. This includes dates of past surgeries, significant medical conditions, current medications (including prescriptions, over the counter, and natural supplements), and allergies — especially allergic reactions to any medicine.
Your medical history can help your surgeon to determine if you’re an ideal tummy tuck candidate, and allow them to take any necessary precautions to prevent adverse reactions.
- Prepare your list of questions:
Along with the aforementioned questions to ask before a tummy tuck, you may have other concerns you wish to present to your surgeon. Writing down a list of questions can help you to ensure you don’t forget to ask anything crucial to your decision-making process.
