An abdominoplasty (abdominoplasty)It is an elective cosmetic surgery to remove excess skin around the abdomen (tummy or tummy). The goal is to tone up and lose weight in the abdominal area. It may also involve tightening or stitching the abdominal muscles.
A tummy tuck is not weight loss surgery. If your goal is to lose weight, you may also need liposuction or other types of surgeries to achieve your desired result. Long-term results are not guaranteed, but avoiding weight gain after surgery can help maintain results.
This article describes what to expect from tummy tuck surgery, how to prepare, and tips for post-operative recovery and healing.
Plastic Surgery Statistics 2020-2021
In 2020-2021, a tummy tuck was the third most common plastic surgery in the United States. The National Database of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery ranked the top surgeries as follows:
- Liposuction: 491,098 procedures
- Breast augmentation: 364,753 procedures
- Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck): 242,939 procedures
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Types of Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat. It may also involve tightening the underlying abdominal muscles.
The following are the most common abdominoplasty techniques:
- Full or Standard: This is an incision from hip to hip and another around the navel.
- advanced: The incision goes around the sides of the lower back. It removes more skin than the standard procedure and is generally reserved for those who have lost an extreme amount of weight.
- lily: this technique takes its name from the shape of the cut. It uses a horizontal (side) incision and a vertical (up and down) incision between the navel and the pubic area. It is reserved for patients who need vertical and horizontal skin firming.
- Mini:This requires a small horizontal incision between the hip bones. It only affects the lower abdomen (below the navel). Ideal candidates are usually close to their ideal weight and have small amounts of stubborn fat, excess skin or stretch marks.
- reversing: Areverse abdominoplastyIt is a partial tummy tuck in which loose skin is removed from the upper abdomen.
- Abdominoplasty with liposuction: Since an abdominoplasty alone does not remove fat,liposuctionwith abdominoplasty is ideal for those who want to eliminate love handles.
rectum diastasisIt occurs when the abdominal muscles separate in the middle. Pregnancy is the most common cause of diastasis recti due to the pressure exerted by the fetus on the muscles. These muscles can be attached as part of a tummy tuck.
Does the 10 Minute Abdominal Belt Work?
contraindications
This procedure may be discouraged if you are at high risk of surgical complications due to:
- A serious chronic illness, such as diabetes (especially if uncontrolled)
- Morbid obesity
- malnutrition
- bleeding disorders
- immunodeficiency
- Current tobacco use (may delay healing)
- Current significant infection
- newly discovered kidney disease
Strong fluctuations in weight or pregnancy can alter the cosmetic effect of a tummy tuck. Although the procedure is not prohibited in these situations, your doctor may recommend that you wait as it may not produce the desired permanent result. Most plastic surgeons recommend that you stay within 10 to 15 pounds of your ideal weight for several months before a tummy tuck.
possible risks
In general, the results of this procedure are good and most people are satisfied with the results.A permanent post-operative scar is visible when you are completely naked. Follow the natural crease that runs along the lower abdomen.
This surgery comes with the usualRisks Associated with Surgerylike thisintravenous sedationogeneral anesthesia.
Complications of a tummy tuck can include:
- wound infection
- blood clot
- abdominal asymmetry
- Severe scarring or skin discoloration.
- loose skin
- Numbness or pain in the surgical area
- unsatisfactory cosmetic results
Bad complications and realities of plastic surgery.
Purpose of the abdominoplasty
Aging, pregnancy, previous surgeries, heredity and weight fluctuations can all make the abdomen look bloated or loose and saggy. A tummy tuck changes the appearance of the abdomen so that it appears flat, firm and toned.
This procedure can improve your quality of life by making you happier with your physical appearance, but it will not improve your physical health.
It's not a tummy tuckweight loss surgery.If you have excess fat around your abdomen, your doctor may suggestliposuctionalong with a tummy tuck. It involves the removal of fat without surgical remodeling of the skin or muscle and is not limited to the abdomen. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure.
If you are very overweight and your goal is to lose weight, your doctor can discuss this.bariatric surgerylike you. This is a type of weight loss surgery where the digestive system is surgically restructured to prevent overeating and excessive calorie intake. It is usually done to prevent medical complications of obesity and not for cosmetic reasons.
paniculectomia
ApaniculectomiaIt is a surgical procedure in which excess stretched, bulging skin (the pannus) is removed from the abdominal area. Although it is similar to a tummy tuck, it would not involve any surgical intervention on the fat or muscle.
Questions to ask yourself before plastic surgery
How to prepare
Often, the decision to have a tummy tuck is a process that takes months or longer. You can try to lose weight and exercise before having this procedure to see if you can get the look you want without surgery.
You should ensure that you are at a relatively stable weight before planning your tummy tuck so that you can maximize the benefits of the procedure.
Your surgeon will request preoperative testing and medical clearance to ensure you can safely have this procedure. This may includeblood testas acomplete blood count (CBC)oElectrolyte test (chemistry).
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, such as a heart condition, that puts you at high risk during surgery, you may need an EKG or other tests to be sure.
Cost
Because a tummy tuck is cosmetic, most insurance plans do not cover this procedure.
Location
A tummy tuck is performed in an operating room or operating room in a hospital or operating room. Most people go home the day of surgery. You may need to stay overnight in the hospital if you have a medical problem and need closer monitoring, if you develop a complication during surgery, or if your pain is not controlled with oral medications.
what to wear
You can use whatever you like for your surgery appointment. When you arrive at the hospital or surgical center, put on an apron.
Eat and drink
Typically, your doctor will instruct you to stop eating and drinking after midnight the night before your tummy tuck. However, as the science behind this concept evolves, follow your surgeon's instructions.
medicine
Your doctor may ask you to stop taking blood thinners a few days before the procedure.if you takeoral steroidor diabetes medications, you may need to follow an adjusted dosing schedule in the days leading up to your tummy tuck.
Most vitamins and herbal supplements are stopped a few weeks before surgery. Make sure you know the instructions in your case and follow them exactly.
Anticoagulants before, during and after surgery
what a fight
Bring identification, your health insurance information, and a method of payment when you come to your tummy tuck appointment.
Pack comfortable clothes to wear when you return home. It's a good idea to wear loose clothing that allows access to a postoperative drain, if one is present.
Preoperative lifestyle changes
You should be at a healthy weight and on a good diet before the procedure to maximize your chances of a good recovery.
In the weeks before your surgery, your doctor or anutritionistcan discuss nutritional issues with you. If you tend to gain weight or overeat, you can start an eating plan to ensure you get the nutrients and calories you need to stay healthy and recover better.
Because smoking impedes recovery, your doctor may also ask you to stop smoking if you are a smoker.
What to expect on the day of surgery
Upon arrival for your appointment, sign consent forms and check-in. You will be taken to a preoperative area where you will be dressed in a gown and your vital signs will be checked. These include temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen levels and breathing rate.
Blood may be drawn for tests, including a complete blood count and electrolyte test, to make sure you don't have an acute health condition or infection.
Your vital signs will be continuously monitored before, during and for at least a few hours after the operation.
before the operation
When it's time for surgery, go to the operating room or suite. You will be placed on an intravenous (IV) line. You can have one toourinary catheterplaced to allow your bladder to urinate, especially if you have general anesthesia.
During the procedure, you will receive general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. With general anesthesia, you will beintubatedwith a breathing tube so that you can breathe with mechanical assistance during the operation.
Your surgical team will place a sheet around your abdomen, exposing the area where you will make your incisions. Your skin will be cleaned with an antiseptic solution. Your surgeon may measure or mark areas on your abdomen before making the incisions.
Types of anesthetics used during surgery
during operation
An abdominoplasty can take from two to five hours, and this depends a lot on the technique used. The steps are as follows:
- incision: The surgeon will do one or twocortes, depending on the type of abdominoplasty. In a full tummy tuck, the incision runs from the hip bone on one side to the hip bone on the other side of the body, near the pubic area; the other incision is around the navel.
- Remove excess skin: After making the incisions, the skin is separated from the abdominal muscles. Excess skin (and fat if liposuction is necessary) is removed from the abdominal area. Once the abdominal muscles are separated, they can be joined together and sewn into place.
- reconstruction: The remaining skin is then stretched over the abdominal area, creating a more taut appearance. If your surgeon included your navel (belly button) in the incisions, it will be reconstructed in a natural-looking position.
- closing the incisions: Once the surgeon is satisfied with the results,close the incisionwith sutures, surgical glue (glue) and Steri-Strips (adhesive wound closure). A surgical drain can be inserted under the skin to collect excess fluid. This stays in place for a few weeks before being removed. A sterile dressing is placed over the area.
after the operation
Once the surgery is complete, anesthesia will stop if you are using an IV or vice versa if you are under general anesthesia. If you have a tube to help you breathe, it will be removed so you can breathe on your own before leaving the operating room.
You will be taken to a post-operative area where your vital signs will continue to be monitored. Once you are awake and deemed stable, your nurse may collect urine from your catheter or ask if you can urinate in a urinal.
It takes several hours before he can get up and walk with assistance. You will go home or to a hospital room, depending on your plan, before the operation.
During recovery in the postoperative area or during postoperative hospitalization:
- Your medical team will take care of your surgical wound and drain and show you how to do it at home.
- You will be given pain relievers and your doctor will give you instructions on how to do this.Dealing with post-operative pain.
- You take back (or are told when to take back) your prescribed medications.
- Your medical team will make sure you can walk, eat and use the toilet in comfort and safety before you are discharged.
If you develop signs of complications, such as a fever or severe pain, in the hours following your recovery, you may need to stay in the hospital longer than planned while your medical condition is evaluated and treated.
lazer
Recovery from any type of tummy tuck can take anywhere from two weeks to two months. You must avoid strenuous activities for at least six weeks. In general, if you have a large wound and/or a significant amount of skin and fat has been removed, you should expect a longer recovery time than if you have a small wound and only a small amount of tissue has been removed.
Carefully follow post-operative instructions. While your specific instructions may vary slightly, the following tips are to avoid complications:
- Hydrate:Drink lots of water. Some vendors occasionally suggest Gatorade or Pedialyte.dehydrationit can make you feel bad in general. So consider drinking a glass of water when you're feeling down.
- proper nutrition: episode ahealthy eatingwith lean protein, fiber and fruits and vegetables to help prevent constipation and accelerate wound healing.
- To relax:Getting up and moving every few hours is important, but you need rest to speed healing.
- Movement: Try to get up every two to three hours to use the bathroom or kitchen. It's also a good idea to move your ankles in circles every 15 minutes while you're awake. Light activity reduces the riskblood clotor lung infections.
- Take a deep breath and cough: Take a deep breath and cough (using a pillow to protect your abdomen) every few hours to reduce riskpulmonary infection.
- manage your pain: Work with your provider regarding pain management. When you're in extreme pain, it's hard to rest and heal.
heal
It is important to follow your doctor's post-operative care plan so that the incisions heal well and scarring is minimal.
You will need to wear compression garments (abdominal wraps) over the bandage and under clothing during recovery.
Keep the incision clean and dry.take care of your woundand drain according to the instructions provided by your supplier. Make sure you know how to change the bandage and when to shower again. Keeping the incision free of infection will help reduce the risk of excessive scarring.
Your provider may suggest: ascar creamor patch after the incision heals. You will also be advised to protect your healed incision from direct sunlight and to use sunscreen for several months. Keep in mind that the scar may not significantly fade for up to a year after surgery.
Infection: When to Call Your Doctor
If you develop pain, redness, discharge, pus, fever, or chills, call your doctor right away, as they can tell you.Infection. The same applies if fluid is leaking from yoursurgical drain(if any) increases in quantity or begins to look bloody or cloudy.
In the weeks after your tummy tuck, you should avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting. If you have your doctor's permission, you can return to work andstart exercising.
How to care for your tummy tuck after surgery
follow
Your drain and wound will be examined when you go for follow-up appointments with your doctor. When the drain is no longer needed, it is thrown away. a seam orSteri-Tiracan be placed to close the opening in the skin.
The surgical wound will be inspected and non-absorbable sutures will be removed once it has healed.
After recovering from a tummy tuck, you shouldn't need any special long-term care.
Possible future operations
In general, tummy tuck surgery does not need to be followed by other procedures and usually does not cause any medical problems.
If you are unhappy with your post-operative scar, consider talking to a plastic surgeon about scar revision. Your scar may look different than expected if you have a wound healing problem or an infection after surgery.
Any future abdominal surgery for medical or cosmetic reasons should be planned with the incisions in mind.
Corrective surgery after bad plastic surgery
lifestyle adjustments
possible weight gainreversingthe effects of the surgery, adding fat to your abdominal area and allowing the muscles to separate. Weight gain followed by weight loss can cause the skin to sag again.
Exercise and a healthy diet are necessary for weight management and optimal long-term benefits after a tummy tuck.
If you are prone to extreme dieting, discuss this with your doctor.
Summary
A tummy tuck is an elective cosmetic surgery that you might want to consider if you want a flatter, more toned belly. Techniques vary depending on the individual and the desired results. This is not weight loss surgery, other procedures may be needed if that is your goal.
In order to heal properly and leave as little scarring as possible, it is important to follow your surgeon's post-operative care plan. Keep your incision clean and dry and use your compression as recommended. While you should avoid strenuous activity for (usually) six weeks, it's important to walk every few hours to reduce your risk of post-operative complications.
A Word from Verywell
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your abdomen, a tummy tuck can improve your appearance. There are many things to consider when deciding if this is the right treatment for you.
Talk openly with your doctor about the pros and cons of this surgery and what to expect during the recovery period, including scarring. Your provider can help you make an informed decision about your situation.
common questions
Can a tummy tuck be performed at the same time as a hysterectomy?
Yes, with good general health, a tummy tuck can be performed in the same surgery.
Are there weight requirements for a tummy tuck?
Before undergoing a tummy tuck, you must be within 10 to 15 pounds of your desired or goal weight.
Is tummy tuck better than liposuction?
It depends on your objective. A tummy tuck tightens the skin and muscle (if needed) in the abdominal area to create a firmer or more toned appearance. Liposuction is a procedure that removes unwanted fat and can also be used on other parts of the body. A tummy tuck and liposuction are often used together.
FAQs
What are realistic expectations for a tummy tuck? ›
Tummy tuck patients typically start enjoying more natural-looking results after a few months, with final results appearing after six months or more. This extended recovery time means that, for those looking for a bikini-ready summer body, you'll need to plan a tummy tuck well in advance of the warm weather.
What I wish I knew before getting a tummy tuck? ›- A tummy tuck requires significant downtime. ...
- Expect to be at a stable weight before your tummy tuck. ...
- A tummy tuck will leave a permanent scar. ...
- Surgical drains will be in place for the first week or two. ...
- Full healing can take up to a year.
It takes six weeks for the body to heal from cosmetic surgery. Swelling may last several weeks, but most patients are fully recovered in three months or less. At this point, it's safe to begin exercising and resuming normal activities. We may make more specific recommendations based on your health and desired results.
How painful is an abdominoplasty? ›There will be some discomfort after a tummy tuck, with the worst discomfort experienced within the first week. On a scale of 1 – 10, pain is often estimated at around a 6-7 for the the first few days to a week, reducing to around a 3 – 4 in the second week. This would, of course, depend on the individual.
How many pant sizes do you go down after a tummy tuck? ›Most women lose between 2 and 3 pants sizes after a tuck, but there are patients who lose even more. If you had a lot of loose skin before the procedure, for example, you could go down 4 more pants sizes.
How long does it take to look good after a tummy tuck? ›Generally, it takes two to three months to see results, depending on the tummy tuck technique that was performed, the extent of skin laxity, and the patient's general state of health.
Does it hurt to poop after tummy tuck? ›After a tummy tuck procedure constipation can be an issue, because opioid pain medications will slow down your bowels. After a muscle repair, there can be pain with straining if you are constipated.
Why do I pee so much after tummy tuck? ›Because the body has a tendency of holding onto water during surgery, most patients will experience a diuresis in the first 4-7 days after surgery. During this time trips to the bathroom can be quite frequent as your body begins to get rid of the additional water weight. Hope this helps.
How much weight is loss after tummy tuck? ›After your tummy tuck surgery, you may probably weigh 4 to 10 pounds less, and this is due to the removal of excess skin and a bit of the fat layer attached to the excess skin. In other words, you won't see a drastic drop on the scale after the surgery.
How long is bed rest after tummy tuck? ›If you have a “mini tummy tuck” with a smaller incision, you'll likely need between one and three weeks of elevated sleeping. On the other hand, full-tummy tuck patients require about four weeks, with six weeks of limiting any strenuous exercise or lifting.
How long are you bent over after a tummy tuck? ›
How long do you walk hunched over after a tummy tuck? You will need to walk hunched over or bent at the waist for about a week. This helps prevent additional pressure on your incision lines.
What hurts after a tummy tuck? ›NORMAL POST-OPERATIVE SYMPTOMS
Tightness and stiffness in abdomen: Bruising, swelling and redness: Tingling, burning or intermittent shooting pain: These are normal experiences as the skin, tissues and sensory nerves heal. Pain medication and muscle relaxants will help you cope with any discomfort.
Most of the intense pain will be in the first few days following surgery. You can take pain medication to control the pain you are likely to experience. You may experience swelling for up to three months after the surgery. Your tummy may feel like it's being pulled when you try to stand up straight.
How do you sit on the toilet after a tummy tuck? ›Toilet Seat Booster
Generally, toilets are fairly low to the ground and we don't realize this until some part of our legs, pelvis or core is sore. After a tummy tuck, getting low enough to sit down on the toilet can be difficult and uncomfortable. A toilet seat booster may just be your new best friend.
- #1: Eat a healthy and well-balanced diet. ...
- #2: Start walking. ...
- #3: Change your sleeping position. ...
- #4: Wear recommended compression garments. ...
- #5: Stay hydrated.
Immediately following a tummy tuck, your abdomen will be placed in a medical-grade compression garment to reduce side effects, like inflammation. Patients are advised to wear this garment with loose-fitting clothing that is easy to remove.
What happens to back fat after tummy tuck? ›Will fat come back after liposuction and tummy tuck? The fat cells that are removed via liposuction during a tummy tuck will not return, but this doesn't necessarily mean the cosmetic results are permanent. Weight gain can generate new fat cells and cause the remaining fat cells to become enlarged.
Do breasts look bigger after tummy tuck? ›A tummy tuck will have no impact on your breast shape or position. The downward traction of the abdominal tissue that is performed during a tummy tuck is not significant enough to affect your breasts at all. Please consult with a board certified plastic surgeon prior to scheduling a tummy tuck procedure.
Should you walk a lot after a tummy tuck? ›You'll need to get up and walk every day to regain your normal movement. Between walks, move your feet and legs often. A tummy tuck leaves a long scar that will fade with time. You also may have a small scar around your belly button.
What are the do's and don'ts after a tummy tuck? ›Some restrictions right after a tummy tuck include; No Heavy lifting at all during your recovery. Avoid strenuous physical activities, swimming and driving until your surgeon gives you the green light. Stay home and get rest for 2-3 weeks.
Can my stomach get smaller after tummy tuck? ›
Will my stomach be smaller after a tummy tuck? Abdominoplasty surgery does not impact the size of the stomach or intestines themselves. Instead, the tummy tuck is used to address a number of cosmetic and structural concerns that typically result from aging, pregnancy, and weight loss, including: Loose skin.
Can you wipe yourself after a tummy tuck? ›Answer: Personal hygiene 2 weeks after tummy tuck
You should be able to care for yourself by now if your mommy make-over was a tummy tuck + breast surgery.
- Post-surgery compression garments.
- Over-the-counter or prescription pain medications.
- Bandages and gauze pads.
- Antibiotic cream.
- Hand sanitizer.
- Water bottle.
- Ice packs.
Answer: Tummy Tuck Side Effects
For several days after a tummy tuck, things will be very tight and it may be difficult to take a really deep breath. However, if you're finding it difficult to take shallow breaths or you experience extreme pain with each breath, call your plastic surgeon immediately.
Answer: Postop fatigue for number of days after abdominoplasty is common. After surgery the body investors energy in healing the operative site. Patients often feel listless and require excess sleep. Sleep is much as you wish but you should but periodically to exercise the extremities.
How do you reduce fluid after tummy tuck? ›- Rest as Much as Possible. ...
- Stick to a Healthy Diet. ...
- Minimise Your Sodium Intake. ...
- Drink Lots of Water. ...
- Gentle Exercise. ...
- Use a Compression Garment. ...
- Take Your Prescribed Medications on Time. ...
- Maintain Your Drainage Tubes (if needed)
Patients need to remember to drink a lot of water after their tummy tuck surgery. Patients should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily. This helps to flush out the body and actually reduces swelling.
What happens if you lose 20 pounds after tummy tuck? ›Weight Loss After a Tummy Tuck
For example, if someone who has had a tummy tuck loses ten, twenty, or even thirty pounds after their procedure, their skin may shrink nicely enough to maintain their tummy tuck results.
Gaining a handful of pounds after your procedure won't compromise your final tummy tuck results. You can usually fluctuate within 10 to 15 pounds of your goal weight without any significant issues. However, weight gain over the 15-pound mark can cause skin and abdominal muscles to slowly stretch out of place.
Is it easier to keep weight off after tummy tuck? ›It is even harder to keep the weight at bay from your tummy once you've lost it. Recent studies are showing patients who undergo abdominoplasty – better known as a tummy tuck – are keeping the weight off and even losing weight long after their surgery. Learn more about the long lasting benefits of the tummy tuck.
How do I sleep first night after tummy tuck? ›
When you rest, it's recommended that you sleep in a slightly bent position that avoids pulling on the stitches. Instead of sleeping flat on a bed, many surgeons and patients who have recovered from abdominoplasty recommend sleeping in a recliner for the first few weeks.
How long do you need recliner after tummy tuck? ›Plastic surgery recovery from a miniature tummy tuck only requires 1 – 3 weeks of resting in a reclined position, while a full or extended tummy tuck may take about 4 – 6 weeks. Patients can modify their beds with pillows to maintain a bent posture during sleep.
Is a binder necessary after tummy tuck? ›Tummy tuck surgery is one of the more aggressive body contouring procedures performed by cosmetic or plastic surgeons around the world. To have the best outcome from your procedure, you will need to wear compression garments for at least 6 to 8 weeks after tummy tuck surgery.
What are the best foods to eat after tummy tuck? ›There are no specific restrictions immediately after a tummy tuck. However, you may want to keep your diet light for the next several days. Start with clear liquids, such as water, then move on to a soft diet of raw fruits and vegetables, whole-grain cereals, yogurt, soft cheeses, soups, and pudding.
What is the best position to sleep after tummy tuck? ›The best sleeping position after tummy tuck surgery is on your back with your upper body elevated to create a slight bend or angle. Using pillows or sleeping in a recliner is ideal to achieve this position.
What is the best painkiller for tummy tuck? ›Over-the-counter medication: Many surgeons recommend taking ibuprofen or naproxen 24 to 48 hours after the procedure if there is no evidence of bleeding. NSAIDS can decrease the swelling and offer pain relief which can allow patients to stop narcotics earlier resulting in fewer side effects from those drugs.
Why does my pubic area hurt after a tummy tuck? ›The tissues, especially of the lower abdomen, flanks, and pubic area are very swollen after surgery. It may take up to six months after surgery for this “fullness” to resolve. Usual pain.
What happens the first day after a tummy tuck? ›Patients report feeling groggy, tired, and occasionally nauseous. You'll feel weak and sitting or standing up may be uncomfortable on the first day of your tummy tuck recovery.
Does a tummy tuck change your pubic area? ›A tummy tuck doesn't include a pubic lift because it focuses on contouring the belly region, tightening the skin and muscles in your midsection. In some cases, the general trimming and contouring of your midsection can improve your pubic region's general appearance, though that isn't intentional.
When does tummy tuck pain peak? ›Pain. Pain after your tummy tuck is natural. It usually peaks 2-3 days after your surgery, but then starts to improve as your body continues to heal.
How much should you walk the day after a tummy tuck? ›
In the first week after tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Patronella recommends patients take short walks of 10 minutes, gradually increasing this to one mile, twice daily by days 10 to 14 days after the procedure.
Should you be at ideal weight for tummy tuck? ›You must be close to your desired weight for six to twelve months before undergoing a tummy tuck. Most surgeons will recommend patients should be between 10-15 pounds from their goal weight.
How many dress sizes do you drop with a tummy tuck? ›A tummy tuck inevitably decreases the size of the body by eliminating excess fat and skin from the abdominal region. Generally, patients lose about one or two sizes on their clothing following a tummy tuck procedure.
What weight do you need to be for tummy tuck? ›While there are no standard weight requirements for a tummy tuck, there are some guidelines most cosmetic surgeons follow. If your BMI is not over 35 and you are within about 30% of your ideal weight and in overall good health, you should be a viable candidate for plus-size tummy tuck surgery.
How do I prepare for a successful tummy tuck? ›- Get lab testing or a medical evaluation.
- Take certain medications or adjust your current medications.
- Stop smoking.
- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.
What BMI Is Good for Tummy Tuck? BMI below 30 considered as an ideal BMI for tummy tuck, but you can have a tummy tuck with good results even if you are overweight. BMI 35 is the maximum acceptable BMI for tummy tuck.
How long do drains stay in after tummy tuck? ›Removing drains too soon may result in fluid buildup, seroma, and the need for fluid aspiration and/or a second surgery. Generally speaking, most patients who require tummy tuck drains are able to have them removed after about 1 – 3 weeks.