What can be done about this excess skin?
Diet and exercise can help you become more slender, but will not cause loose skin to tighten. Most often, surgery will be required to remove the excess skin, tighten the underlying muscle and create a more slender, firmer abdominal region.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure:
A tummy tuck (officially called an abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that must not be taken lightly. Selection of the proper patient is a must and we look for patients that are healthy, non-smokers and that understand the recovery required for this procedure. Tummy tuck surgery is done under general anesthesia and requires an incision in the lower abdominal region, often times extending from hip to hip. In most cases, an incision around the belly button is also made. The skin is detached and the abdominal wall muscles are tightened with internal sutures. Excess skin and fat is removed and the skin is re-draped. The incisions are closed with stitches. A drain may be required to help eliminate excess fluid from building up in the surgical site.
Recovery Process:
Tummy tuck surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. It is advisable to have a family member or friend stay with you for the first day or two. Once you are home, you will need to rest and recover, but this does not mean that you are on bed rest. In order to heal properly and prevent complications, such as blood clots in your legs, it will be necessary for you to get up and walk to the bathroom several times per day. Most patients take 2 or 3 weeks off from work. During your recovery process, you will be wearing a post-surgical garment. Strenuous physical activity, such as lifting or core abdominal exercises are limited after surgery. Dr. Gayoso will let you know when you can resume these more strenuous activities, but generally it is after 3 months. Prior to this, walking and light exercise is allowed, once cleared by Dr. Gayoso.
Schedule a Consultation at Our Office
The first step of your abdominoplasty procedure will be the consultation. Meeting with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon is vital, as it will help you better understand the procedure. When you meet with Dr. Antonio Gayoso, a board-certified plastic surgeon with years of experience, you will be able to ask any questions you may have and can make sure your aesthetic goals are clear. Contact us to arrange your consultation.
