Questions to ask plastic surgeon before tummy tuck
In this guide, we review the Questions to ask plastic surgeon before tummy tuck, tummy tuck post op questions, tummy tuck pre op checklist, and night before tummy tuck surgery.
Abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck procedure, is an extremely popular plastic surgery procedure today, and for good reason.
This procedure gives patients the opportunity to get rid of love handles, remove excess fat and loose skin, and tighten the abdominal muscles, resulting in a slimmer and more aesthetically-pleasing midsection.
Questions to ask plastic surgeon before tummy tuck
You can help define your waist and even improve the look and shape of your belly button after a simple procedure. What’s more? You’ll be able to choose from a much wider variety of clothing and bathing suits!
Now, all this may sound excellent in principle, but without the right Plastic Surgeon, you might not get the results you expect. So here are a few questions to ask your Plastic Surgeon before you opt for a tummy tuck. Remember, it’s a long-term investment and you want to be absolutely sure you’re in the right hands. So it’s best to take your time to find the right person for the job.
1. Am I a Good Candidate for Abdominoplasty?
It’s imperative that your Plastic Surgeon be able to tell you whether you’re a good candidate for the tummy tuck procedure or not. So be sure to ask this question and gauge how they respond.
Not everyone should get a tummy tuck. That is why your Plastic Surgeon must examine you and ask a few questions before determining whether or not you are fit for the procedure. Ideally, patients opting for a tummy tuck:
Of course, it goes without saying the patient should also be free from infections at the time of the procedure.
2. How Experienced Is Your Plastic Surgeon?
You don’t want to hire a Plastic Surgeon who’s performing one of their first tummy tucks on you.
You want to take your time and make sure that you find a Plastic Surgeon who’s performed multiple tummy tuck procedures before and is well-versed with them.
Just to be sure, ask the Plastic Surgeon for before and after pictures of their patients’ tummy tuck procedures to get an idea about outcomes. However, always keep in mind that each patient is different and each body reacts differently to any procedure.
3. How Much Will a Tummy Tuck Procedure Cost?
Most patients tend to ask this question before anything else, and it’s extremely important to know how much you’ll be paying for this life-changing procedure. Knowing the cost will help you plan your finances a lot better and arrange the funds necessary to undergo the operation. However, do not make price the most important factor in your decision.
Every Plastic Surgeon charges a different price based on numerous factors including their expertise, their staff expertise (for instance, do they employ an Anesthesiologist or Nurse Anesthetist), the patient’s requirements, the surgery center they’re operating in and so on. Most reputable Plastic Surgeons need to meet the patient and examine them before determining the tummy tuck cost.
Plastic Surgeons need to examine the patient’s body type, the amount of excess fat/skin that needs to be removed, the patient’s physical condition, and the goals and expectations of the patient. Once the Plastic Surgeon is familiar with these aspects of the surgery, they can tell you what they will charge.
Another piece of information you may want to find out from your Plastic Surgeon is the financing options available to you. Peninsula Plastic Surgery provides financing through Care Credit.
4. How Long is the Recovery Period After an Abdominoplasty?
The tummy tuck procedure recovery period is a central part of the entire process as it helps you assess the best time to go in for your surgery. On average, most patients can return to work within 1-2 weeks and get back to exercise within 4-6 weeks.
However, this number varies from patient to patient and you need to ask your Plastic Surgeon about the ideal time for yourself. Depending on the type of work you do, your pre-surgery body weight, and the extent of your tummy tuck, your Plastic Surgeon will be able to give you a more accurate picture of how long it will take to recover.
Just remember to be patient and respectful of your body and allow it ample time to heal and return to its optimal state.
Consider Other Procedures
These are the most important questions you should be asking your Plastic Surgeon when opting for a tummy tuck. You may also want to consider combining a tummy tuck with other procedures for better results.
For example, a tummy tuck with liposuction will allow your Plastic Surgeon to contour your body more effectively, giving you a slimmer yet more curvaceous look. You can even combine a tummy tuck with a breast lift to give you a perkier and more youthful appearance. Combining procedures may also help you save money as each standalone procedure may be more expensive on its own.
So screen multiple professionals, ask a bunch of questions, and choose a Plastic Surgeon who fits the bill. This way you can ensure a smooth procedure minimal complications.
About Dr. Rosso and Peninsula Plastic Surgery
Dr. Rosso is one of the leading Plastic Surgeons in the South Bay and performs a large number of breast lift, breast augmentation, and breast reduction surgeries, in his state-of-the-art Surgery Center or at the local Torrance and Little Company of Mary Hospitals.
tummy tuck post op questions
Dr Rebecca Wyten, Female Specialist Plastic Surgeon, regularly performs Abdominoplasty Surgery in Melbourne’s Eastern and South-Eastern Suburbs. Here are her tips for Recovery after Tummy Tuck.
URGENT UPDATE – The Australian Government has reinstated a Medicare Item Number for a Tummy Tuck for some post-pregnancy patients suffering from Diastasis Recti (Split Tummy Muscles) if you are eligible and meet the new criteria. This new 30175 Medicare Item Number – is effective 1st July 2022. Read the 30175 Medicare Item Number factsheet.
If you qualify for the 30175 Medicare item number you may also get a subsidy from your Health Fund. There will still be a significant out-of-pocket GAP as Tummy tuck surgery is NOT FREE.
Considering Tummy Tuck Surgery? Download our handy guide.
Tummy Tuck Recovery – What to expect
1. What is the normal recovery time for a tummy tuck?
2. What you can and can’t do after getting a Tummy Tuck?
3. How painful is a Tummy Tuck?
It may even leave you feeling as if you can’t stand tall. In time, the skin will adjust and the sensations will become less uncomfortable.
4. What are some tips to help me heal and recover faster?
Ask Dr Wyten’s team for information and support if you have any concerns about your healing process or your incision line care.
5. Why is the recovery time for a mini tummy tuck different?
In other words, the same factors still apply for a mini tummy tuck as for a full tummy tuck. The key difference is that you may have less discomfort or less abdominal tightness, and you may be able to return to normal activities a few weeks sooner than if you’ve had a full tummy tuck/abdominoplasty with abdominal muscle repairs for diastasis recti (torn abs).
However, few patients are suitable candidates for a mini-tummy tuck, and it may not get them the tighter, trimmer tummy area they’re wanting. If you have a mini Tummy Tuck, chances are you are very athletic and simply have a bit of loose skin (but no real abdominal muscle separation and no excess abdominal fat).
6. Why does the recovery from Tummy Tuck Surgery vary so much from patient to patient?
The main reason is that no two Tummy Tuck procedures are alike. Every surgery is bespoke. The type of Tummy Tuck surgery you have may be more complex, or more intensive a procedure, than another person.
Additional factors that can impact your healing and recovery after a Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty include:
So expect some variance and ask your Surgeon what is normal during recovery from a Tummy Tuck.
7. Can I see before and after photos of real tummy tuck patients?
Head to our before and after gallery to see more tummy tuck surgeries by our team of Specialist Plastic Surgeons from Melbourne and Sydney.
Notes about Tummy Tuck Recovery – after Abdominoplasty surgery
1. Your Recovery is Unique – no surgery or tummy tuck recovery is ever identical. Each abdominoplasty surgery is as unique as the patient who has the procedure. Each person’s recovery period after a Tummy Tuck will also be unique.
2. A Range of Factors determine your recovery – a variety of genetic and lifestyle factors may impact your actual Tummy Tuck recovery experiences. These include:
3. Your Recovery time may vary– your discomfort or healing period length may vary depending on:
*Smoking of any kind greatly increases all of your risks related to having plastic surgery, including risks related to Tummy Tuck surgery. If you haven’t quit smoking yet, don’t have surgery – or get professional help immediately to quit.
tummy tuck pre op checklist
For patients who are interested in undergoing cosmetic surgery to help rejuvenate some aspect of their appearance, there are many important decisions to make and factors to consider before a procedure can take place. For many patients, a tummy tuck is a great way to achieve a trimmer physique by removing excess skin and fat from the belly area. However, tummy tuck surgery is not a one-size-fits-all process. Patients must understand the basics of their procedure and all their aesthetic options in order to have the best experience possible with their tummy tuck. That’s why I have created the following checklist to help prospective tummy tuck patients prepare for their surgery.
A tummy tuck (also known as an abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that reshapes and flattens the abdomen by removing loose, excess skin and fat from the area. Loosened or damaged abdominal muscles can also be tightened or repaired during a tummy tuck for patients who have a “belly pooch.”
2.) Determine Which Type of Tummy Tuck is Best for Your Needs
Depending on the patient’s aesthetic goals, I may either recommend a full or mini tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck uses incisions that are less extensive to help patients who only wish to improve their lower belly area (below the belly button). Some patients may prefer to undergo a drainless tummy tuck, in which I use a specific layered suturing technique instead of a typical fluid drain during the recovery.
3.) Determine if You Are a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck
In addition to having excess skin and fat around their abdomen, good tummy tuck candidates should be in good physical and mental health. Tummy tuck patients should be at a healthy, stable body weight before their surgery. They should also not be smokers, as nicotine can cause issues during the procedure and recovery period.
4.) Choose the Right Plastic Surgeon to Perform Your Tummy Tuck
It’s important to find a board-certified plastic surgeon with considerable experience performing tummy tucks. I recommend that for any plastic surgeon you meet with, you ask them a series of questions to help determine whether they are a good fit for your needs. These may include how long they have been performing tummy tucks, if they have before and after pictures from past tummy tuck patients available, which hospitals they operate in, and more.
5.) Physically Prepare for Your Procedure
Every tummy tuck is different. However, there are certain things that I recommend for all tummy tuck patients to help prepare for surgery including adjusting current prescription medications (if recommended by your physician), stopping smoking or other forms of nicotine consumption, and temporary avoidance of over-the-counter meds that may increase bleeding like aspirin or ibuprofen.
6.) Understand What is Required for Post-Surgery Recovery
Closely following your surgeon’s post-surgery instructions is crucial for achieving the best possible results from your tummy tuck. Make sure to have an in-depth discussion about your recovery during your pre-surgery consultation.
Following these steps can help patients better prepare for your prospective surgery. The more time you spend researching and learning about your potential procedure, the more likely you are to find the cosmetic surgery that will help you achieve the best, longest-lasting aesthetic improvement. For more information on tummy tucks or if you would like to schedule a complimentary plastic surgery consultation today, please contact me, Dr. David Whiteman, at Southern Plastic Surgery today. Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for additional plastic surgery tips, videos, news, and more.
night before tummy tuck surgery
It is common for men to have excess stomach fat and skin, especially with age. Most women, especially after pregnancy, have dealt with loose abdominal wall skin and musculature, leading to a protruding stomach. With a tummy tuck, Dr. David N. Sayah addresses the excess fat and skin, as well as the weakness and spreading apart of the rectus abdominals muscles. If you have any questions regarding tummy tuck surgery, please request a consultation online. The friendly staff at The Sayah Institute is ready to help you get on your way to a shapelier, slimmer new you.
Are You a Candidate?
Your first step to a new look is to schedule a visit to our office for a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon such as Dr. Sayah. During your consult, you will discuss your surgical options and Dr. Sayah will assess your candidacy for the procedure. If you do decide to schedule an abdominoplasty or a Mommy Makeover in Beverly Hills, you will be provided with a list of preoperative steps to follow.*
Preparing for Your Procedure
Be certain to drink plenty of fluids to remain well hydrated before your procedure. Dr. Sayah asks that the day before your surgery you only consume a clear, liquid diet to keep your intestines clear of any residue. You can otherwise perform your regular activities and work until the day of surgery.
On your last appointment before the day of surgery, wear your favorite bikini bottom. This will be used by Dr. Sayah to mark the surgical incisions to assure your final abdominal scar will be well hidden by the bikini.*
Dr. Sayah prefers light general anesthesia for his procedures. With this anesthetic technique, you will breathe on your own, completely unaware of the surgery. While you sleep, a local anesthetic is injected into the surgical site to minimize post-surgical pain.
Performing the Tummy Tuck
Liposuction is performed to remove any excess fat that remains on the sides. The skin is then re-draped over your abdomen, and the excess skin and fat are excised . Multiple layers are used to close the skin to minimize scarring and to ensure that the final scar will remain within the “bikini region.”*
Before the completion of the surgery, a long-acting anesthetic is injected into the surgical sites to minimize post-operative pain. Silastic drains are then placed to collect any oozing that may occur over the next few days and are typically removed during the first week. We will also apply an abdominal binder at the completion of the procedure, which you will need to take off every 4 hours until your first visit. You will be provided with a detailed set of postoperative instructions to maximize your comfort and results as you recover.
After the Procedure
Following your abdominoplasty, you will be asked to walk with your back flexed forward at the hips to minimize tension on the abdominal. When getting into and out of bed, roll onto your side and get up sideways to reduce any straining of the wound. Do not attempt to sit-up in bed. Lie down in bed only with your back elevated with a few pillows. You should not lie flat for the first two weeks after surgery. Dr. Sayah also does not recommend sitting perfectly upright for longer than one hour per day during the first week.
On the day of surgery you should drink fluids; but if you experience discomfort, please advance your diet slowly. Take your medications as prescribed including your antibiotics and pain medicine, and make sure to get plenty of rest.
For more information, refer to the instruction sheets provided to you after the surgery.
Contact The Sayah Institute for More Information
During the following week, you are encouraged to walk as much as comfortably possible. The office staff will contact you regularly to ensure your comfort and to answer any questions. For the swelling to subside more rapidly and to improve your final results, it is important that you wear your compression garment (girdle) for six to eight weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, officially known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that first tightens the interior abdominal muscles, then removes excess fat and tissue to reveal a more streamlined profile.
The best candidates for tummy tuck are those who have already reached a steady weight and are in good general health overall. Weight losses after a tummy tuck, or weight gain following the procedure, could both impact your final results. A tummy tuck isn’t an alternative to weight loss, and shouldn’t be performed on women who anticipate becoming pregnant.
What Will My Results Look Like?
After your tummy tuck, you should be able to see an immediate difference in your profile, although postoperative swelling may disguise the results at first. Loose skin and tissue will no longer be visible, and lower abdominal stretch marks will be resolved.
While liposuction and tummy tucks are both procedures that help you look slimmer and more toned, they are very different surgeries that accomplish very different goals. Liposuction removes only fat cells and does not affect the musculature support of the abdomen in any way. Liposuction won’t remove excess skin, either, or minimize stretch marks.
A tummy tuck repairs separated abdominal muscles, as well as removing excess fat and tissue. A tummy tuck and liposuction are often combined for more comprehensive results.
To learn more about the differences between lipo and tummy tucks and for help determining which is right for you, click here.
After your tummy tuck, Dr. Sayah suggests walking around as soon as possible rather than lying still, to promote active blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. He also recommends rolling to your side first before getting out of bed, and not lying flat for the first couple of weeks. You should also avoid sitting perfectly straight during your first week home, so you do not place excess strain on your incisions.
While recovering, you’ll have to keep track of emptying your surgical drains and removing your compression garment every few hours. These steps will help ensure that swelling dissipates rapidly, and promote healing.
Is My Tummy Tuck Permanent?
With proper care, tummy tuck results will last for many years. However, it is possible for the abdominal muscles to re-stretch during subsequent pregnancies or weight gain. For this reason, Dr. Sayah does not recommend abdominoplasty for women who plan on future pregnancies. Although nothing can fully stop the aging process, tummy tucks reshape the appearance of your body to minimize the signs of aging both now and in the future. If you continue to maintain a healthful diet and regular exercise, you should be able to maintain your new look long-term.
