There are many surgeries and procedures that can correct and diminish problem areas. A tummy tuck, for instance, can remove excess skin while tightening the muscles of the abdomen. This is a common surgery that many people find beneficial. But while common, most people do not fully understand this surgery. If you are considering an abdominoplasty, which is also known as a tummy tuck, here are a few questions to ask to help you understand and determine if the procedure is right for you.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

One of the first things you need to determine is whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck. It is important to remember that even though you want to lose weight and tighten the skin around your stomach, surgery may not be the right option for you.

A good candidate is someone who is at a healthy, stable weight, meaning they are not considered obese or overweight a great deal. Good candidates will also have realistic expectations about the surgery, meaning they know the procedure is not a quick fix and that continuing to live a healthy lifestyle will be required after the procedure.

Talking with your doctor is the best option to determine if you are a good candidate for an abdominoplasty.

Are Tummy Tucks the Same as Liposuction?

Another question you may have is about the actual procedure, especially since many people confuse tummy tucks with liposuction. In reality, tummy tucks and liposuction are very different.

A tummy tuck consists of tightening abdominal muscles that have stretched or even separated, which is common during pregnancy. Then, the surgeon will remove some excess skin from around the abdominal area.

Liposuction removes stubborn pockets of fat from the body, but it does not tighten lax muscles or remove excess skin.

Is a Tummy Tuck an Invasive Procedure?

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure, so it will be considered invasive. Anesthesia is used to put you asleep, allowing the surgeon to make an incision in the abdominal area to begin the actual tightening of the muscles and removal of the skin.

Recovering from a tummy tuck will require some time and patience. You will experience soreness and discomfort after the procedure, but this will subside a little each day.

Proper understanding is essential if you are considering a tummy tuck or another form of plastic surgery. This guide will help you ask important questions regarding this beneficial procedure.