A tummy tuck is a popular, effective solution for weakened abdominal muscles and loose, sagging skin in the midsection. Whether you have experienced changes in the physique due to pregnancy, aging, or weight fluctuations, a tummy tuck can restore a sculpted, balanced lower body profile, boosting your confidence.
In this blog, our team at Studio Plastic Surgery in Toronto, ON, explores the best ways to prepare for abdominoplasty, setting you up for success along your journey to a more youthful appearance.
Step One – Understanding the Procedure
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is not a weight loss strategy. Rather, it is a body sculpting procedure to restore a flat, toned belly. It can help patients who already follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen to take their workout results to the next level.
During surgery, weakened or separated abdominal muscles are tightened, while excess drooping skin and tissue are removed. The belly button may also be repositioned in a more youthful-looking, flattering location. Many surgeons combine a tummy tuck with liposuction to eradicate stubborn fat and create the most comprehensive contouring outcomes possible.
Step Two – Selecting Your Surgeon
After you fully understand the tummy tuck procedure, your next step is to select the best plastic surgeon for your goals. Your first step should be to review each provider's qualifications, including their education, board certifications, awards, and specialized techniques. Additionally, it is important to read testimonials from past patients and to review each doctor's before-and-after photos.
If you know someone who has undergone a successful abdominoplasty procedure, you might ask them for the name and number of their surgeon. Your provider should inspire confidence and security, and should have extensive expertise in body sculpting procedures. It stands to reason that if a surgeon performs thousands of facial surgeries a year, but only one or two tummy tucks, they might not be a good fit. Lastly, trust your instincts and never ignore your intuition when it comes to selecting your provider.
Step Three – Attending Your Private Consultation
Once you have selected your provider, you will want to book a private consultation with them. This initial visit allows you to get a sense of your provider's demeanor and determine if there is a good rapport present that can support working together.
You want to make sure that your chosen surgeon fully understands your goals and expectations for a tummy tuck surgery. It is a good idea to prepare a list of questions ahead of time that you can ask in person, as you may forget key concerns once you are in the office.
The consultation is also a time for your plastic surgeon to assess your candidacy for abdominoplasty. The doctor will conduct a physical evaluation as well as a thorough exploration of your medical history, ruling out contraindications. Safety should always be the top priority of any reputable medical professional.
Step Four – Exploring Your Procedure Options
As with several other body sculpting procedures, there is more than one type of tummy tuck that you can undergo. The surgery can be customized to meet your unique needs and address your individual anatomy. Understanding that you have options when it comes to a tummy tuck is an important part of preparing for surgery. Providers such as those at Studio Plastic Surgery in Toronto typically offer the following variations:
Standard (Full) Tummy Tuck
This type of abdominoplasty addresses the areas below and above the belly button, reducing excess, sagging skin, firming the underlying muscles, and repositioning the navel in a more attractive location. Results are highly natural and provide patients with enhanced confidence and access to a wider selection of clothing, swimwear, and lingerie.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck addresses the area below the belly button, eradicating an unwanted bulge or “pooch” along with stretch marks. The surgery is less invasive and comes with a shorter recovery period and less postoperative discomfort. However, a mini tummy tuck may be less effective when it comes to repairing diastasis recti, the postpartum condition of weakened or separated abdominal muscles.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck takes abdominoplasty to the next level by targeting not only the belly but also the hips and flanks. An extended incision is made that allows the surgeon to remove excess tissue and skin from the upper and lower abdominal areas as well as the sides. This contouring approach is typically recommended for women who have given birth multiple times or for those who have experienced massive weight loss.
Step Five – Anticipating the Recovery Process
Tummy tuck recovery requires plenty of preparation in order to ensure a seamless and stress-free healing process. After surgery, you will encounter swelling, bruising, and soreness in the abdominal region. There are some other risks to be aware of as well, which include temporary numbness, bleeding, fluid buildup, and skin discoloration.
Your surgeon may place drains in the treatment areas after surgery, which help to remove excess blood and fluids from the body. You will also be fitted with a compression garment, which you will need to wear for around six weeks. This garment helps to minimize swelling and keep your newly sculpted abdominal contours in excellent shape as you heal.
Your surgeon will provide oral pain medications to help alleviate any discomfort. Antibiotic medications will also be prescribed to reduce the risk of infection. Most patients need to take several weeks off from work. While you can take short walks right away after your surgery, you will need to wait at least six weeks before resuming strenuous exercise and heavy lifting. Rest assured, your provider will offer you a customized aftercare plan that goes over everything you need to do to ensure a lasting and transformative result.
Step Six – Preparing Your Body for Surgery
Any type of surgery can be taxing for the body. For this reason, it is critical that you optimize your health and well-being prior to a tummy attack. If you smoke, you will need to quit at least 4 to 6 weeks before and after abdominoplasty. Smoking can significantly impair blood flow and increase your risk of complications.
Additionally, it is critical that you limit alcohol consumption before surgery, as alcohol can negatively interact with pain medications, leading to dangerous outcomes. Lastly, you should try to follow a healthy diet and drink plenty of water in the days and weeks leading up to your appointment.
Step Seven – Stocking Up on Supplies
Part of your tummy tuck preparation process should be to stock your home with the necessary supplies ahead of time. This will help support a smooth and seamless healing process. Here are some of the important supplies to purchase prior to your procedure:
- Recliner
- Body pillows
- Stool softeners
- Wipes
- Scar ointments
- Snacks
- Water
- Towels
- Books
- Movies
- Tissues
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
Having everything you need on hand ahead of time will increase your peace of mind before surgery, as it is one less thing to worry about. Your provider will help you make a more comprehensive checklist so you don’t miss anything.
Step Eight – Establishing a Comfortable Recovery Environment
After surgery, your top priority will be to get as much rest and relaxation as possible. Your body will need to rebuild its strength after undergoing a major cosmetic procedure. You may want to dedicate one room in your home to recovery, creating a quiet, peaceful environment for your healing process. Make sure your bed has multiple pillows for support so you can relax comfortably.
Some doctors suggest that you sleep in a recliner, as this can take the pressure off of your incisions, make it easier to get up and down, and reduce the risk of rolling over. Many patients find using a recliner to be the most comfortable method of recovering after abdominal surgery.
Step Nine – Scheduling Post-Op Assistance
After surgery, you will need someone to drive you home and assist you for the first 24 to 48 hours of your recovery process. It’s a good idea to schedule this assistance ahead of time and make sure that you have someone available to help out with childcare and pet care. You will not be able to lift anything over 5 pounds for a number of weeks, so enlisting assistance for basic chores and tasks around the house is critical. You will also need someone to help prepare your meals, assist you in getting in and out of bed, lend a helping hand when you get dressed, and refill any medications that you might need.
What Is the Takeaway?
While a tummy tuck is a major surgical undertaking, being well prepared goes a long way in maximizing your peace of mind and confidence when it comes to moving forward with the surgery.
Take your time in selecting the best plastic surgeon, attending your consultation, and learning about the different abdominoplasty options. Educate yourself about the recovery process, take steps to prepare your body for surgery, and rearrange your home environment to maximize comfort as you heal.
Lastly, don’t try to go at it alone. Make sure to enlist the help of friends and family members to support you, as you will need to take the necessary time off from work and chores to optimize healing.
Ready to Learn More About Abdominoplasty in Toronto? Contact Studio Plastic Surgery Today to Book Your Private Consultation!
At Studio Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons prioritize your safety and the elegance of your final results. We take all the time necessary to fully understand your goals and preferences, crafting a one-of-a-kind treatment plan that reflects your unique vision for a more sculpted, youthful physique. Call us today at (416) 342-3950 to book your initial consultation!
