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Tummy Tuck Surgery in Chicago, Illinois
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
About Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery
What
is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, also known as a "Tummy Tuck" or
simply "TT", is the surgery of the abdomen to remove
the excess skin and fat that may accumulate after pregnancy,
obesity or age. With a full abdominoplasty, benefits are also
tightening of the abdominal muscles that may have become stretched
out or lax over time. Even a new belly button can be obtained
as a result! If you have an "outtie" or even an
"innie" - the opposite can be acquired to go along
with your new, taut stomach! This isn't a simple procedure
and you should definitely be aware of the risks and post-operative
care and attendance that will be needed.
Am I a candidate for a
Tummy Tuck?
A good tummy tuck patient must be in good health, not have
any active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions
and must have realistic expectations of the outcome of their
surgery. An "ideal" patient would have incredibly
elastic skin. Normally women seek this procedure after pregnancy
- although it is advised to wait until you are finished having
children to have this procedure as the skin and muscles can
get stretched out again as well as the dangers of your newly
taut skin being unable to accommodate another pregnancy. Also,
if you are considering losing weight you should wait until
after your desired weight is met. You may need additional
surgery to remove the excess skin after you have lost the
desired weight which would mean that the money spent on the
previous abdominoplasty would be wasted and your skin can
only be stretched so much.
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When is Abdominoplasty
usually performed?
The Abdominoplasty procedure is usually performed when a person
is discontent with their appearance in the abdomen region. Although
there is no "normal" age or time in one's life (after
18), it is most often sought out after a woman has given birth and
does not plan on having any more children. The reason that not having
additional children is an important factor is that after the extra
skin and muscle tissue is removed, the abdomen may not be able to
accommodate another child. The skin could quite literally "split".
Although this probability will be individual-dependent. Mini tummy
tucks are considered less invasive and are for minimal correction
cases.
What does a typical Abdominoplasty
consultation entail?
The surgeon will measure your abdomen and general torso region for
an idea of an ideal abdomen size for you. Between pictures that
you have brought in and with the information of how many children
you have had, the two of you will set realistic goals on what is
and isn't possible with an Abdominoplasty. You must remember that
no amount of surgery can restore your skin to its former condition.
How is Abdominoplasty performed?
Abdominoplasty is performed most commonly under General Anesthesia
or Light Sleep IV Sedation. Local anesthesia is then used to numb
the abdomen. The operation is performed by making an incision in
the lower abdomen just above the pubis. The incision may go from
hip to hip. It is placed in the bikini line so that it is well hidden.
The skin and fat is dissected off of the abdominal muscles all the
way up to the bottom of the rib cage. The belly button is separated
from the skin and most frequently all the skin and fat below the
belly button is removed. Sometimes, sutures are placed on the muscles
of the abdominal wall to tighten one side of the abdomen to the
other and thereby flatten the abdomen remarkably. The skin above
the belly button is drawn down to the pubis and sutured into position.
A new hole is placed in the skin and the belly button is positioned
in about the same spot that it existed before surgery. Your new
tummy is then sutured into position. One or two drains are placed
under the skin and rest on the abdominal muscle. The drain(s) exit
below the incision on the pubis.
What
are the different techniques for Abdominoplasty?
The different techniques pertaining to Abdominoplasty consist
of the different incision shapes and placement. Dr. Placik
will discuss the options with you during your consultation.
Click
Here to find out more about the various techniques.
What should I expect after
Tummy Tuck surgery?
You are usually able to walk immediately after surgery and
are encouraged to do so 3 or 4 times per day for 1-2 minutes
each time. The skin of the abdomen will be quite tight and
you are usually instructed to remain bent over at least 45
degrees for the first 4 to 5 days after surgery. Patients
will often note some back discomfort due to the 45 degree
positioning for 4-5 days after surgery so ask your surgeon
about muscle relaxants or valium.
The drains that have been placed will generally be removed
4 to14 days after surgery. At the end of 4 days the patient
may begin to straighten up and by six days post-op may or
may not be fully straight. You should take it easy for at
least two weeks after surgery. While the drains are in, you
will be on bed rest with a very small amount of walking as
outline above. An abdominal pressure garment may be placed
around you during one of your post-operative appointments
and you may be instructed to wear this for 3 to 6 weeks. Some
swelling and discoloration are normal but generally this is
minimal. Of course this is dependent upon the individual.
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Is there much
pain associated with Abdominoplasty?
The amount of pain associated with this procedure is quite variable.
Some patients note a moderate amount of discomfort and for some
it is more intense. But certainly there is some discomfort. Patients
will often note some back discomfort due to the 45 degree positioning
for 4-5 days after surgery. Valium is sometimes given to alleviate
muscle spasms of the back and for relaxation and a sleep aid, in
general.
Where are the
scars located involving an Abdominoplasty?
This is not a scar-free surgery. Your individual scar will depend
upon the amount of skin needed to be removed, your body's ability
to heal, if you scar well, the skill of the surgeon and the technique
utilized. Dr. Placik will discuss the incision types, techniques
and placements with you during your consultation.
Is there a lot
of swelling involved with a Abdominoplasty?
There is a bit of swelling involved with an Abdominoplasty. You
must take into account that Abdominoplasty is surgery and with this
type of surgery and depending upon the case, a lot of tissue is
removed.
When can I return to work?
Abdominoplasty is a very slow-to-heal-completely procedure. While
the drains are in, the patient will be on bed rest with a very small
amount of walking as outlined above. An abdominal pressure garment
may be placed around you during one of your post-operative appointments
and you may be instructed to wear this for 3 to 6 weeks. Most patients
can and do return to work after 2 weeks. You simply should not have
to sit at a desk for 8 hours after having had an Abdominoplasty.
When will I
be able to see the results?
After the swelling subsides and the drains are taken out you will
start to see a difference. You must realize that the underlying
tissues have been cut and that an Abdominoplasty is considered a
very invasive procedure. Give your body time to heal and you will
reap the many benefits of the procedure.
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What are
the risks of Abdominoplasty?
As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Dr. Placik
and his staff will do whatever they can to minimize those
risks and keep you aware of the possibilities that could occur
during surgery or the healing process.
How long
does an Abdominoplasty last?
This procedure can last for many, many years. If there are
no large weight gains, and no pregnancies after the tummy
tuck then the changes will be relatively permanent.
Click
Here to view Before & After photos.
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For more information about Breast
Enlargement, set up your confidential consultation with Dr. Placik
today. Call (847) 398-1660 or (312) 787-5313 or submit an online
contact form.
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Associated Plastic Surgeons,
S.C.
Otto J. Placik, M.D., F.A.C.S.
(847) 398-1660 or (312) 787-5313
Arlington Heights and Chicago, Illinois |
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