Important Information to Know Before You get a Tummy Tuck in Dallas
A tummy tuck, clinically known as an “abdominoplasty,” is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin around your abdomen. The procedure also tightens the muscles of your abdominal wall, giving you a flatter, healthier look. The difference before and after a tummy tuck in Dallas can be quite dramatic.
This information gives you a basic overview about abdominoplasties. You will learn how it might benefit you, how it’s performed, and the results you might expect. Many of the answers to your questions are unique to the individual, so be sure to keep those in mind for when you meet Dr. Whetstone.
Who is a Good Candidate for an Abdominoplasty?
The best candidate is of either gender, who stays in relatively decent shape, but has loose skin and fat in the abdominal region. Additionally, women who have endured multiple pregnancies who have stretched their skin beyond its ability to return to normal make great candidates.
If you are considering losing a significant amount of weight, consider postponing the surgery. Also, if you are planning on future pregnancies, you should wait because the vertical muscles in your abdominal region an separate again during pregnancy.
How Your Surgery is Planned
During your initial consultation, Dr. Whetstone evaluates your health, determines how much fat and loose skin is present in your abdominal region, and also examines your skin tone. Make sure you let him know if you smoke, what medications you’re taking, and any other vitamins or drugs you are currently taking.
If your fat deposits are primarily below your navel, you may be a good candidate for a mini-tummy tuck. However, you might also benefit from a partial or complete abdominoplasty performed along with liposuction. Liposuction alone may also be the best solution. Dr. Whetstone will help you determine the best approach for your body.
How to Prepare for Your Surgery
If you are a smoker, it’s important to quit at least 4 weeks prior to your surgery. Also, make sure you don’t start again until at least two week after your surgery, as smoking negatively affects your ability to heal. You will need help driving home after your surgery, so make sure to have that arrangement made. You might also need help around the home for 1-2 days after you leave the hospital.
Location of Your Surgery
Your tummy tuck in Dallas will most likely be performed in an outpatient surgical center. If necessary, arrangements can be made to have this operation performed at a facility allowing you to stay overnight.
Types of Anesthesia
Dr. Whetstone uses general anesthesia, which helps you sleep through your operation.
Following Your Surgery
Once your surgery is complete, you will feel swelling and discomfort in your abdominal area. Depending on how your surgery goes, you will usually be released within a few hours of its completion. Although standing straight at first will be a challenge, it’s recommend you start walking as soon as you can. Your doctor will also give you instructions on showering and changing your dressings.
How to Get Back to Normal
It may take several weeks before you begin to feel like your old self once again. The time required for recovery from a tummy tuck varies from one week, to two to three, depending on the individual. Dr. Whetstone will give you restrictions on exercise and heavy lifting for a certain amount of time following the surgery.
It can take from six months to a year before healing is complete. During that time, your abdominal region will gradually flatten in appearance.
Enjoy Your New Look
For most patients with weak abdominal muscles or excess skin, a tummy tuck in Dallas produces excellent results. And in most cases, the results last for years into the future, and your results last longer if you eat a balanced diet and exercise on a regular basis.
