9 Things You Need to Know About Tummy Tucks

10 Dec 9 Things You Need to Know About Tummy Tucks

The tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is the only way to get an immediate taut, flat tummy. It’s been one of the most-requested procedures at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center for years—and with good reason. Many celebrities have undergone this procedure, but there’s still a lot of misinformation floating around about what a tummy tuck is (and isn’t).

Let’s take a look at the top things you need to know about tummy tucks:

• It’s not just removing excess skin. Trimming away skin is part of a tummy tuck, but it goes much deeper than that (literally). A tummy tuck also strengthens the abdominal muscles. In fact, the interior part of a tummy tuck is the procedure used to address diastasis recti. You’re actually strengthening your core with a tummy tuck, which is why the initial recovery period is 4 – 6 weeks.
• You’ll probably get a new bellybutton. If you get a full tummy tuck, chances are your original bellybutton isn’t going to be viable. We don’t need bellybuttons, but would certainly look strange without them, which is why the recreation of a “new” bellybutton is inherently part of a fully tummy tuck.
• Liposuction is often combined with a tummy tuck. Even though the top goal of a tummy tuck is a smooth, flat stomach, that’s pretty tough to do if there are pockets of stubborn fat in the way. Liposuction is the most commonly paired surgery with a tummy tuck, helping to achieve optimal results.
• You don’t actually want a flat stomach. We use the term “flat” subjectively here because a naturally “flat” stomach actually has a lot of contours, dips, and curves. If you look at the body of a swimsuit model, male or female, their stomach isn’t “flat” per se. Leading surgeons know how to achieve a gorgeous look that’s still natural.
• Yes, there will be a scar. Part of a tummy tuck is removing excess skin, and that’s going to require an incision. The exact length of the incision will be unique and based on numerous factors. However, it commonly spans from hip bone to hip bone. Tummy tuck scars are hidden below the beltline so you can still wear a swimsuit or crop top with confidence. Plus, if you want to lessen a scar’s appearance, laser skin rejuvenation after healing can be very helpful.
• A mini tuck isn’t suitable for most people. A lot of people have their interests piqued when they hear “mini tuck,” but this procedure isn’t what you think it is. A mini tuck only addresses tummy issues below the belly button, making it ideal for only a small number of people. Yes, the incisions will be shorter and you probably won’t need a new bellybutton, but most people will benefit from a full tummy tuck.
• Men and women get tummy tucks. Women are most associated with tummy tucks because it’s part of a mommy makeover. After all, women are the ones who most often have their abdominal skin stretched out quickly due to pregnancy. However, any healthy adult might benefit form a tummy tuck. When you have big weight fluctuations, lost a lot of weight (especially quickly), or are genetically predisposed to skin laxity, you can end up with excess stomach skin. A tummy tuck can help.
• If you get a tuck now, you’ll be swimsuit-ready by summer. Winter is the ideal time to undergo many plastic surgeries, including a tummy tuck, because you’ll be largely healed by swimsuit season. A tummy tuck is one of the more aggressive surgeries, with downtime needed. Most patients are back to their full routines after 4 – 6 weeks, including cardio, but for incision scars to flatten and lighten you’ll need a little longer. If you want to make a big splash come summer ’22, you’ll want to start considering a tummy tuck now.
• You might want to get all surgeries at once. As previously mentioned, a tummy tuck is a common part of the mommy makeover. This makeover doesn’t have any required set of surgeries, but is the nickname for two or more surgeries typically designed to help post-partum moms get their body back. If you’ve been thinking about breast augmentation or a facelift, too, it might be best to undergo these surgeries during one appointment and consolidate your recovery period.

Are you ready to learn more about tummy tucks and other surgeries available at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center? Schedule your consult today by calling the office or completing the online form.