Tummy Tuck Surgery for Individuals throughout the Tampa Bay Area
A flat abdomen is something the majority of us desire and strive for. So, if you’re not happy with your stomach, even after following a healthy diet and regular exercise routine, consult with the experienced team at Tampa Surgical Arts in Tampa Bay for tummy tuck surgery. We are led by Dr. Manik S. Bedi, a triple-board-certified cosmetic surgeon, and our devoted team will provide expert care that you deserve.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Excess fat and sagging skin can be the result of extreme weight loss, pregnancy, the natural aging process, hereditary influences, or other surgeries. A tummy tuck removes this excess fat and sagging skin and tightens the abdominal muscles to provide a defined tummy – one you’ll be proud to show off during your next beach day.
How Is Tummy Tuck Surgery Performed?
Tummy tuck surgery is an involved procedure that includes the following steps:
- A horizontal incision will be made under the belly button, the length depending on how much excess skin needs to be removed.
- The abdominal skin will be lifted to repair any weakened muscles.
- If necessary, a second incision around the navel will be made to repair muscles of the upper abdomen.
- Then, the abdominal skin will be pulled down taut, and any excess skin will be trimmed off. What remains will be sutured together.
- A new opening for the belly button will be made, and once it pops through, it will be sutured into place.
- All skin incisions will be closed with sutures, skin adhesives, and other materials.
What Are the Benefits of Getting a Tummy Tuck?
You’re most likely aware that a tummy tuck provides a smoother, more defined abdomen, but you may not know that this procedure also restores tone and strength to the abdominal muscles. Stomach muscles can become weak after multiple pregnancies or weight loss, so a tummy tuck will surgically enhance those muscles to create a more stable core. What’s more, with stronger stomach muscles, you may experience improved posture as your core muscles better support your spine.
Another lesser-known benefit of tummy tuck surgery is that it can ensure your internal organs maintain proper function. Since belly fat cells will be removed, the function of your internal organs will not be interfered with by fatty acids, toxins, or pressure.
Treatment Considerations for Tummy Tuck Surgery
When you consult with Dr. Bedi for tummy tuck surgery, he will begin the appointment by learning about your aesthetic goals and what you expect from this procedure. Then, he will perform a physical assessment in order to discuss the type of tummy tuck you need and the likely outcome you can anticipate. After this consultation, you can conveniently schedule the tummy tuck surgery with our staff.
Since a tummy tuck is a major medical procedure, it’s important to be in good physical health, a nonsmoker, and within 20 percent of your ideal body weight. Those who plan on becoming pregnant or losing a significant amount of weight should hold off on the surgery for now.
Pre- and Post-Op Care
You will be given thorough instructions on what to do before your tummy tuck surgery. If you’re a smoker, you’ll want to cease smoking immediately, and you may need to stop or avoid certain medications in the days and weeks leading up to the surgery. You may also need to meet a weight benchmark before the surgery can be scheduled.
After surgery, you’ll wear an abdominal binder around your midsection for four to six weeks. This binder acts as a compression garment to prevent blood clots and reduce swelling. You’ll experience soreness, pain, and bruising at first, but these symptoms will decrease in severity in the coming days. Over-the-counter medications can relieve the symptoms.
You’ll be required to take it easy for at least two weeks following the procedure, so plan to spend time at home recuperating. Lifting heavy weights, doing crunches or other abdominal exercises, and participating in strenuous activities like running should be completely avoided for six weeks.
Tummy Tuck Surgery at Tampa Surgical Arts
If you want to discuss tummy tuck surgery with the team at Tampa Surgical Arts, contact us today to set up an initial consultation. We exercise discretion for every patient who walks into our clinic in Tampa Bay.
