Many of us measure our health and vitality through the lens of our physical appearance. One such measure is the stomach. We know that events such as pregnancy or significant weight change can cause the skin and underlying muscles of the stomach to stretch, preventing them from returning to their original shape. Exercise and diet help some of us; but for others, a flatter tummy may only be achieved through surgery.
Body-contouring specialist Dr. Farzad R. Nahai, a board-certified plastic surgeon at The Center for Plastic Surgery at MetroDerm P.C. in Atlanta, Georgia, will consult with you and assess your goals to determine if tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty is the best option for you.
Candidates for Tummy Tuck Surgery
The best candidates meet at least one of the following criteria:
- The patient is generally healthy and in good shape but bothered by fat deposits or loose skin around the abdomen that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise.
- The patient has had multiple pregnancies that have stretched the skin and muscles beyond the point that they can return to normal.
- Aging and weight fluctuations have caused the skin around the patient’s abdomen to lose significant tone and elasticity.
About the Procedure
Abdominoplasty is performed under a general anesthesia and treats 3 specific areas of concern: loose skin, excess fat, and weakened muscles. This provides a deep, comprehensive, long-lasting change that improves both the strength and appearance of the abdomen. Dr. Nahai begins the surgery by making an incision along the lower portion of the abdomen as well as one around the navel. He carefully removes unwanted fat deposits and may surgically tighten the muscles with internal sutures. Before closing the incision Dr. Nahai redrapes the skin.
Aftercare and Recovery
After a tummy tuck, the abdominal incision and belly button will likely be covered with a surgical dressing, and a drain is often placed to promote healing without fluid in the area. There will be moderate pain which can be controlled with medication. Swelling in the surgical area normally lingers up to 6 weeks; however, in some cases might take up to 3 months to resolve. To prevent fluid buildup and provide abdominal support during healing, the patient wears a supportive abdominal garment. Vigorous excise and heavy lifting should be avoided for the first six weeks.
Each patient is unique; therefore, results of treatment may vary.
A tummy tuck can flatten your stomach and give you a slimmer, youthful profile. If this meets your goals, contact us at The Center for Plastic Surgery at MetroDerm, P.C. to schedule a consultation. The center serves patients around the metro Atlanta, GA area including Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Roswell, Milton, Alpharetta, Brookhaven, and Buckhead.