A Deeper Understanding of Abdominoplasty: How to Make It Safe and Long-Lasting

Patients across the United States are increasingly opting for abdominoplasty, defined as an invasive procedure that removes fat and excess skin from the abdomen, as well as tightens the muscles. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that the demand for tummy tuck procedures has increased by 87 percent since 2000. It is one of the most performed plastic surgeries today, especially among post-pregnancy women.

Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck surgery has an impressively high satisfaction rate and a 97 percent “worth it” rating on RealSelf. Its overall safety, efficacy, and longevity depend on an educated patient.

Below are five frequently asked questions that, when answered, will help to achieve your most desirable outcome.

1. Am I a candidate for abdominoplasty?

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the following makes you an ideal candidate for abdominoplasty:

• Physically healthy and at a stable weight
• Does not use tobacco products
• Have realistic expectations
• Have loose skin around your abdomen
• Have lax muscles in your stomach area
• Unhappy with your abdomen’s overall appearance

2. Is abdominoplasty safe?

All surgical procedures, including cosmetic enhancements, carry some risk. A tummy tuck procedure is generally considered safe as long as properly-selected patients undergo the treatment with a qualified plastic surgeon in an accredited medical facility.

Over the span of several years, scientists have extensively reviewed the safety of tummy tuck procedures. In the United States, the rate of notable complications is as low as 4 percent. Both male and female patients who are considered high-risk due to obesity, health conditions, age, and other factors may have a higher rate of complications.

Here at Guerra Plastic Surgery Center, your safety is our leading priority. A few risks that our highly experienced plastic surgeon will discuss with you before surgery include the rare possibilities of:

• Hematoma or seroma
• Blood clotting
• Negative reaction to anesthesia
• Delayed healing
• Infection
• Allergies
• Unsatisfactory results

Ultimately, abdominoplasty is a safe option for patients in good general health. It is even safer when you choose one of the top plastic surgeons in Scottsdale, Arizona to perform the treatment, such as Dr. Aldo Guerra and his team of certified clinicians. An experienced surgeon can provide insight into your unique risk factors and offer recommendations to produce the best possible outcome.

3. If I have plans to get pregnant, is tummy tuck surgery still safe?

Fortunately, if you become pregnant after a tummy tuck, it will not impact your ability to conceive nor will it affect the health of your baby. In hindsight, we recommend waiting to undergo abdominoplasty until after you have children. Future pregnancies can divide the repaired muscles and re-stretch the skin around your abdomen. As a result, you may need another body contouring procedure to restore your previous results.

4. How do I prepare for abdominoplasty and achieve the best results?

Before getting tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Guerra will personalize your procedure and ensure you understand the surgical process in a one-on-one consultation. During this essential meeting, Dr. Guerra will provide clear instructions based on your medical history, medications, and the specific body contouring procedures he will perform.

Here are some basic guidelines you should follow when preparing for surgery:

• Stop smoking. Tobacco use increases your risk of complications and slows the healing process.
• Eat a healthy diet. Eating fruits and veggies improves your immune system and ability to recover from surgery.
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and certain herbal supplements. Some medications provoke excessive bleeding and may lead to postoperative complications.

5. How do I maintain my tummy tuck?

There is no denying that abdominoplasty can give you a whole new stomach to flaunt. A few things you need to do to maintain your beautiful results include:

• Exercise. Working out is crucial once you fully recover from your procedure. The ideal regime is a combination of cardio and moderate weight training. Running and swimming are two popular choices for cardio, and anything that increases your heart rate is often effective since it signals fat burning. Weight training is an excellent way to maintain your abdomen’s toned and sculpted appearance after a tummy tuck. Once exercise becomes a part of your daily routine, it will become less and less difficult to make time for it.
• Eat healthy foods. Keep in mind that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. The results will not magically maintain themselves, meaning you can still collect fat in the abdominal region. Always watch your diet and eat as healthy as possible. Choose foods that are low in preservatives, and focus on fresh produce. Nutritious fruits and vegetables are almost always a good idea, while processed foods are never good choices.
• Manage your appetite. Did you know it takes 20 minutes for the stomach to realize the state of being full? Most of us tend to eat based on our eyes rather than our stomach, so a smart way to avoid overeating is to take breaks after each serving. Try drinking a glass of water and waiting 20 minutes. As the minutes pass, you will often realize that you are no longer hungry. But if you still feel unsatisfied, go ahead and eat a bit more.
• Stay in touch with our office. Guerra Plastic Surgery Center in Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ will provide you with a comprehensive schedule of follow-up appointments after your tummy tuck. To ensure that you enjoy the life-long benefits of abdominoplasty, come in for your appointments and follow all of our easy instructions.

Are you ready to plan your procedure?

The best way to know whether abdominoplasty or any cosmetic enhancement procedure is right for you is to share with us your concerns, preferences, and expectations. Our certified plastic surgeons can give you specific advice and tips on how to make a tummy tuck safe, effective, and long-lasting.

Are you ready to schedule your tummy tuck consultation? Complete our online form to book a consult. With the help of our top-quality and award-winning doctor, you can achieve or retrieve the healthy, lean figure you’ve always wanted.