The best Candidate for a Tummy Tuck

The tummy tuck procedure is definitely not a wise choice for every patient. Considering the resultant permanent scarring, and the very nature of such a major operation, deciding on an abdominoplasty is not a decision to be made lightly. The operation requires months of recovery time, and requires dedicated preparatory procedures and post-op care. That aside, the operation is a very valuable procedure, producing desirable cosmetic results for thousands of women and men across the world, with few and rare complications.

Ideally, candidates for an abdominoplasty should be men or women otherwise in good health with the mild cosmetic complaint of loose abdominal skin or excess fat. The procedure is particularly effective in helping women with irretrievably stretched abdominal muscles through numerous pregnancies, or those suffering from sub-navel stretch marks. The procedure is also suited to treating older patients who, through mild obesity and a loss of elasticity in the skin, realised excess skin in their lower abdominal areas.

Patients intending to lose significant amounts of weight, or those planning on future pregnancies should consider postponing the procedure, as this could cause the vertical abdominal muscles to separate, resulting in the need for further abdominal surgery. If there is scarring from a previous abdominal procedure, the surgeon may recommend against an abdominoplasty, or warn that future scars may be more visible.

When considering an abdominoplasty, it is important not only to consider your general state of health and wellbeing, but also the impact the operation will have on your social life and career. The operation demands a degree of preparation, coupled with a great deal of recovery time. This may have negative impacts on your life, particularly if you are a parent or carer with dependents, or have an active job. During your recovery time, you may not have the same energy or physical ability to care for others, so it is important to consider your current situation. Patients with stronger abdominal muscles, or generally better health will require a shorter recovery time, although some patients may require up to as much as eight months before their full recovery and before they can safely resume physical activity such as driving and lifting. It may be worth holding out until suitable circumstances, although again the future is unpredictable and you may not have the necessary finance or health at some later stage. It is always a good idea to discuss the operation with friends and family as well as your doctor, to get a variety of different perspectives before making your final decision.

Abdominoplasty can definitely enhance the appearance of the abdomen, and boost self confidence. However, it is best to keep your goals realistic, and consider that this will not necessarily result in happiness, nor will it encourage other people to treat you differently. It is always a good idea to consider and discuss your motives, as well as alternative procedures with your medical practitioner to decide if an adominoplasty is the right surgical procedure for you.

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