Tone That Tummy in Time for the Holidays
The holidays are known for adding on a few pounds, especially during Thanksgiving. Even if you have indulged a little too much on turkey and pie, or have tried with little luck to slim down over the summer, you still have options. In fact, if your tummy is the main concern, then you may want to consider the tummy tuck procedure. There is still time to have the procedure done and recover in time for the holidays, and what better way to usher in an exciting New Year!
The tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is designed to eliminate excess skin and fat and tighten the muscles in the abdominal wall to create a smooth and firm abdominal area. In order to be eligible for a tummy tuck, it is recommended that you are already at or near your ideal weight. People that are still in the process of losing weight should consider a tummy tuck after they have reached their target weight. Women that are planning on becoming pregnant are advised to postpone the procedure until they are finished having children. Despite common belief, the tummy tuck is not intended as a weight loss tool nor is it a solution for stretch marks on the stomach. The tummy tuck is designed to target areas of the abdomen that have not responded to diet and exercise, making it particularly popular among people that have a lot of loose or sagging skin around the abdominal area due to significant weight loss, as well as women with excess skin and stretched abdominal muscles following pregnancy and childbirth.
The tummy tuck procedure will typically take anywhere from two to five hours to complete. The patient will receive general anesthesia and then the surgeon will make an incision between the hipbones just above the pubic area. Through this incision, excess fat and skin will be removed and the muscles of the abdominal wall will be tightened. The surgeon will then make an incision around the navel to elevate it to a higher position. In many cases, liposuction may be performed at the same time to refine the results.
During the recovery period following the tummy tuck, the patient will need to wear a special support garment to help the abdominal area recover from the surgery. A small drain may also be placed in the area to remove excess fluid and to alleviate swelling. In most cases, patients are able to recover from the surgery within 4 weeks. In fact, many patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within two to four weeks, though strenuous activities and exercise will need to be postponed for four to six weeks.
In order to maintain your new look, it’s important to follow a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables in addition to regular exercise. So, why not usher in the New Year with a flatter tummy and a healthier lifestyle.
Dr. Rubinstein at Laser & Cosmetic Surgery Specialists as the body surgeon. Dr. Rubinstein perform surgery in their joint commission certified surgical suite in Newburgh, New York. Please call their office at 845-863-1772 to schedule an appointment.
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