There are several reasons why people get a tummy tuck. Many women want to get rid of the remaining “pooch” from childbearing. Men and women who have lost a substantial amount of weight may have trouble getting rid of the loose, sagging skin around the abdominal area. If you are considering a tummy tuck, here are five things you may not know about this popular procedure:
There is more than one type of tummy tuck
There are three categories of a tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty – standard, mini and modified. During your consultation, Dr. Ruff and his staff will help you determine the best tummy tuck based on your concerns and desired result.
A tummy tuck can be performed as outpatient or inpatient surgery
Usually an outpatient procedure, a short hospital stay may be necessary. Either way, you will want someone to stay with you and help you for the first few days as you will feel tired from anesthesia and experience discomfort.
You can return to work within 2 to 6 weeks after surgery
Everyone heals at different, but you can return to work when you are ready. Patients often resume driving within 6 weeks as long as you don’t have any pain in the abdominal area. Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous work or exercise for 6 weeks.
A tummy tuck can be combined with other procedures
Dr. Ruff can perform VASERlipo™ liposuction, which is a gentler form of liposuction, to remove fat in the abdomen during the tummy tuck to achieve optimal results.
You will notice immediate results, but it may take up to six months to see the final results
The swelling will prevent you from seeing final results until you recover fully from this major surgery. It may take up to a year for the scar to fade, but you will always have a scar. Your aftercare during the healing process will help to lessen the appearance of the scar.
If you want to learn more about a tummy tuck and you live in Washington, D.C., or surrounding areas, call our office at 202-785-4187 to speak with a staff member and schedule a consultation.