A tummy tuck, which is also known as abdominoplasty, is an ideal cosmetic surgery procedure for 
those who want to tighten and have excess fat removed from their tummies, or abdominal regions. Even after engaging in vigorous exercise routines meant to tone and tighten their abs, many people find it difficult to get a flat stomach after having given birth, lost an excessive amount of weight, or having simply aged and grown older. Thankfully, a tummy tuck can achieve what diet and exercise may not be able to do as effectively.
Before you make the decision to have a tummy tuck, it’s important to learn more about what you must do to ensure that you get the best results from tummy tuck surgery. If you and your body are not fully prepared for surgery, your tummy tuck may not offer the long-term results you desire.
Are you thinking about having a tummy tuck? Here are the five keys to getting the best results from your tummy tuck procedure.
1. Get as close as possible to your target weight
While it may seem counterproductive to lose weight before your tummy tuck, doing so will allow your cosmetic surgeon to remove even more excess skin from your waistline. Women who have recently had a pregnancy may experience difficulty with reducing the pouch of excess sagging skin in their abdominal regions, whereas men and women who have had weight-loss surgery may be struggling with copious amounts of excess skin. At the time of your initial consultation, your cosmetic surgeon will inform you whether you need to lose more weight before a tummy tuck, and may even give you suggestions on to how to lose that particular amount of weight.
2. Determine whether you’re done having children
If you’re a woman who plans on becoming pregnant again in the future, you may want to hold off on having a tummy tuck until you’ve birthed all your children. If you have a tummy tuck prior to becoming pregnant, your uterus and baby could alter the shape and appearance of your abdomen, and increase the likelihood that you’ll need another tummy tuck down the road. For the best tummy tuck results, wait until you’re done having children before having the procedure.
3. Ask your cosmetic surgeon plenty of questions
A tummy tuck will drastically alter your physical appearance in the best possible way! However, considering how major the surgery can be, it’s in your best interest to ask your cosmetic surgeon as many questions as possible about how the procedure will be done. Make sure your cosmetic surgeon has the necessary experience and certifications, and look at patient before-and-after photos of tummy tucks. You should feel completely at ease after your initial consultation, and be familiar with the ins and outs of tummy tuck surgery, including incision length and placement, recovery dos and don’ts, and pain management options.
4. Stop smoking immediately
If you’re having tummy tuck surgery, you must stop smoking at least six weeks prior to surgery. Smoking can increase your risk for complications during surgery, and can prolong the healing and recovery process. In some cases, your cosmetic surgeon may refuse to do surgery if you have been smoking in the days and weeks leading up to surgery. Take steps to quit smoking as soon as possible, and use smoking cessation products or take part in support groups if you’re experiencing difficulty with quitting on your own.
5. Follow your surgeon’s instructions
At the time of your tummy tuck surgery, your cosmetic surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to take care of yourself throughout the recovery period. Make sure you adhere to these instructions carefully, as failure to do so could result in adverse effects, and less-than-optimal tummy tuck results. Give your body the time it needs to heal, and avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in vigorous physical activities until your body is ready.
Are you thinking about having a tummy tuck to slim and tighten your abdominal region? GLOW Surgical Arts offers a variety of cosmetic surgery and minimally invasive procedures to help you look and feel beautiful. Request a consultation online, or call GLOW Surgical Arts at (650) 241-2209.
