If you have loose, excess skin around your abdomen following weight loss or childbirth, it may be frustrating as diet and exercise fail to eliminate it. However, you don’t have to live with it. A tummy tuck could deliver the cosmetic results you want and dramatically improve your self-confidence.
As one of Boise’s top plastic surgeons, Dr. Jonathan Kramer has seen firsthand the positive effect a tummy tuck can have on his patients. If you’re struggling with the embarrassment of loose skin around your abdomen, Dr. Kramer can help you achieve the flat, toned stomach that will make you proud to look in the mirror. He serves Boise and surrounding areas of Idaho. Call (208) 344-4900 today to schedule a consultation.
Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck could improve your life in numerous ways, including:
- Elimination of loose, hanging skin around the abdomen
- More toned, fit appearance
- Tighter abdominal muscles
- Improvement in the appearance of stretch marks
- Removal of C-section scars
Am I a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Generally, tummy tuck candidates:
- Are in good overall health
- Have excess skin around their abdomen
- Have stretched or damaged abdominal muscles they want to repair
- Are at or near their target body weight
- Maintain an active lifestyle and eat a healthy diet
You should also talk to Dr. Kramer about whether you plan to have children in the future. A tummy tuck will not negatively affect a future pregnancy, but the physical stress of pregnancy and childbirth could adversely impact your cosmetic results. For that reason, Dr. Kramer recommends that women wait to undergo a tummy tuck until after they’re done having kids.
Furthermore, you should not smoke if you want to get a tummy tuck. If you do smoke, you should be prepared to quit before your surgery and throughout your recovery. Smoking can negatively affect your healing process.
What to Expect from the Tummy Tuck Procedure
Tummy tucks are outpatient procedures performed under general anesthesia. They should take about three-four hours. First, Dr. Kramer will make a horizontal incision across your abdominal region, beneath your belly button and above your pubic area. He’ll repair any stretched or damaged abdominal muscles to strengthen that area.
Then, Dr. Kramer will reshape the underlying tissue to create a firmer contour. Finally, he’ll trim away the excess skin, pull the remaining skin tight, and suture it back together.
Recovery After a Tummy Tuck
Every person’s tummy tuck recovery is unique, and how long it takes until you’re fully healed depends on several factors. First, you should arrange to have someone drive you home after your surgery, as well as stay with you for the rest of the day in case you need assistance.
Dr. Kramer will give you a support garment to wear through the initial part of your recovery. This will help reduce swelling and inflammation. You should sleep upright, either in a recliner or propped up by pillows, for the first few days after your surgery, as well.
As soon as you feel up to light activity, you should start going on walks every three to four hours. This will stimulate blood flow and help improve your healing process. In the weeks after recovery, you’ll be able to increase your activity level gradually. You should be able to return to work about two to three weeks after surgery and resume strenuous exercise after six weeks.
Tummy Tuck Q&A
Am I a candidate for a “mini” tummy tuck?
A “mini” tummy tuck technique involves a smaller abdominal incision and does not require an incision around the belly button. It is most beneficial in those people whose main issue is excess skin in the lower abdomen or around a C-section scar, and may or may not be combined with lower muscle tightening. It is a less invasive procedure. While this option may sound appealing due to the reduced potential for scarring, most men and women are not good candidates for the technique. Most people benefit from abdominal tightening both above and below the belly button, and from a certain amount of skin removal, which a full tummy tuck can better achieve.
How much discomfort should I expect after my tummy tuck?
The abdomen is a sensitive area. Once the numbing medicine wears off, most of the discomfort comes from the muscle tightening and is described as a pressure, or from where the drains are exiting. You will have prescriptions to make this easier, but even though your abdomen will be sensitive, it’s important to walk around and maintain some mobility after surgery. After a few days, you should feel comfortable with only over-the-counter medication. Dr. Kramer will review more about what to expect, and provide complete post-operative instructions.
Will I have drains placed after surgery?
No patient wants to have drains, but with this type of surgery, drains often can speed recovery and make post-operative care more predictable. Newer abdominoplasty techniques minimize the time drains are needed. Dr. Kramer will discuss that with you during your consultation, and you will receive detailed instructions on proper drain care.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation Today
Dr. Kramer is dedicated to helping his patients achieve the body they’ve always wanted to have. A tummy tuck could drastically improve your self-esteem and body image. You deserve the confidence that comes with feeling good about your body. Dr. Kramer serves Boise and surrounding areas of Idaho. Call (208) 344-4900 today to schedule a consultation.
Kramer Plastic Surgery
