If you have excess skin or flab in your abdominal area and are tired of trying to get rid of it through diet and exercise, an abdominoplasty in Delaware might be right for you. Also called a tummy tuck, this body-contouring procedure can be performed on men and women looking for a firm and flat midsection.
Abdominoplasty surgery is one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic medicine. The procedure involves removing excess fat and skin from the abdomen and tightening the stomach muscles with sutures. The remaining skin is repositioned to achieve a toned look.
Ideal Candidates
You are an ideal candidate for an abdominoplasty if:
- You have experienced dramatic weight changes.
- You have had one or more pregnancies.
- You are at or near your ideal weight.
- You are unhappy with the appearance of your abdomen as a result of excess skin, stubborn fat, sagging abdominal muscles, and stretch marks.
A tummy tuck is not an alternative to weight-loss procedures and is not recommended if you want to lose weight. Moreover, this procedure is not for you if you plan to get pregnant in the future, since this can affect abdominoplasty results.
You should talk to Dr. Balakhani if you smoke, have a BMI over 30, or suffer from diabetes or heart disease. In cases like these, you may need to make certain lifestyle changes before a tummy tuck is right for you.
I wanted to write a note of thanks to all of you for being so wonderful during the surgery process. I love the change in my body already, and can’t wait to see the final results in a few months. I’m so excited to wear the clothes I never would have looked good in before, especially bathing suits!
What to Do Before the Operation
To prepare for your abdominoplasty, you must first arrange a consultation with Dr. Balakhani. You will discuss any medical conditions and allergies you have, any past procedures you have undergone, and your expectations from the treatment. An examination will be performed, and pictures may be taken.
You must also do the following:
- Stop smoking for at least two weeks.
- Avoid taking herbal supplements and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Maintain a stable weight.
- Take medication prescribed by Dr. Balakhani.
- Arrange for help from a friend or family member after the procedure.
The Procedure and What to Expect
The tummy tuck procedure takes around 2-5 hours. General anesthesia will be administered to help you stay comfortable throughout the procedure. In some cases, local anesthesia with sedation can be administered instead of general anesthesia.
Dr. Balakhani will make a curving horizontal incision from one hipbone to the other. Another incision may also be made around the bellybutton.
Excess skin will be trimmed away with a scalpel. Stubborn fat will be suctioned away using liposuction, and the drooping muscles will be rejoined and tightened with internal sutures. The remaining skin will be tightened, and the incisions will be closed with stitches.
The Recovery and Healing Process
After the procedure, the incisions will be appropriately dressed. Small tubes may be placed to drain excess fluid and blood, helping to avoid seromas and hematomas.
You will have temporary swelling and bruising, which is completely normal. Pain medications will help you deal with any pain or discomfort during recovery. Antibiotics will be prescribed in order to prevent infection.
You will need to wear an abdominal binder for 5-6 weeks; this provides support and enables you to heal quickly. It also encourages tighter skin and controls swelling. Avoid positions and movements that can put pressure on your incision lines.
You will need to stay home from work for 2 to 4 weeks. Physically taxing activities should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks or longer.
Full results should be visible once all swelling has gone down. If you maintain a stable weight, tummy tuck results can last for a very long time.
How Much Does Abdominoplasty Cost?
The details of each tummy tuck procedure determine its price. Cost is based on factors like the amount of tissue removed, the exact techniques performed, and the type of anesthesia used.
Contact Us to Find Out More
With the help of an abdominoplasty, Delaware patients can enjoy effective abdominal contouring and a fit, sculpted tummy. Learn more today – contact us and arrange a consultation with Dr. Mehdi Balakhani.
