If you have loose skin on your tummy from pregnancies or dieting, you probably have given at least passing consideration to having a "tummy tuck." Abdominoplasty is a common surgical procedure usually rendering excellent results - but all tummy tucks aren't the same. Which one might be right for you?
There are three basic types abdominoplasty procedures - the mini, the standard and the extended. Which one you should consider can only be determined after a surgeon meets with and examines you. An abdominoplasty has a more extensive recovery time than many other cosmetic procedures, but it provides a long lasting and a very effective result. After the surgery, there is a truly dramatic, positive change to your body shape and your tummy will be flatter and tighter.
The simplest and easiest tummy tuck to recover from is the "mini" tummy tuck. This procedure is typically suited to women who have never had children, or have had just one pregnancy, and is appropriate if there is only a small amount of loose skin in the central lower abdomen. In this procedure the surgeon tightens the skin only and doesn't repair the underlying abdominal muscle. The scar on the "mini" tummy tuck is normally shorter, usually horizontal, and most often placed just above the pubic area within the upper pubic hairline.
The next step up from the "mini" tummy tuck is the "standard" tummy tuck. If you have had several pregnancies, this is usually the best procedure. Normally with this surgery the excess skin is excised and there is repair of the underlying abdominal muscles. The scar is usually horizontal and above the pubic area but it is longer, extending from approximately one hipbone to the other.
The most extensive tummy tuck is the "extended" procedure. This surgery is often indicated for women who have had multiple pregnancies or for those who have lost a massive amount of weight. Excess skin is excised from the abdomen and flanks and the underlying abdominal muscle is tightened as well. The scar runs across the upper pubic hair area and extends upwards toward the back on both sides. It is a long scar but many think the benefit is worth it, as it tightens the entire lower torso. Also, a really good surgeon is usually talented at leaving behind the bare minimum of scarring.
As in all medical/surgical procedures, your choices regarding abdominoplasty should be determined only after careful research and frank and open discussions with a licensed, qualified physician. A tummy tuck has the possibility of dramatically improving self-esteem concerning your body, but it still is a major surgical procedure and you'll want to be fully informed before going ahead with it.
Note: The specific risks and the suitability of a tummy tuck for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation with a physician. All procedures have some degree of risk. The information provided here is not a substitute for a consultation.
A Short Description
Before moving on the story, let us quickly revisit and review what a complete tummy tuck otherwise known as a standard abdominoplasty. It is often performed to correct and stretch out loose and hanging skin from the abdomen. It involves detachment of the skin from the underlying tissues, repair and tightening of the abdominal muscles, stretching out of the skin, excision of the extra skin and reattachment of the skin to the tissues beneath it. Seems simple enough, isn't it? Well, if you happen to be a good surgeon who is frequented by clients, then yes - this will be a routine procedure for you and will probably take around 3 to 5 hours. And if you are the patient and not the one holding the scalpel, then it is advised that you find a good one.
Now that we have that out of the way, lets us get on with how a former addict kicked his habit and jump started his new life by getting his body back into shape.
Recovering And Getting His Life Back
Allan is a 35 year old male. He used to be a lead guitarist in a local band in Dallas. 10 years ago, he was in the best shape of his life, until he found drugs and alcohol. For almost a decade, Allan went on a downward spiral. He lost his feel for life and only had alcohol and shooting up in mind. It was only 2 years ago that he hit rock bottom and decided to get help. Since then Allan has been getting his life back. He kicked his drug habit and started to play music again. He started to run again as he used to and he has lost a lot of weight in the two years he has been sober.
He feels better than he has ever before. But, all that weight loss has left a lot of extra skin hanging from his once enormous belly. To finalize his change, he decided on a tummy tuck. For him, it meant physical pain and a danger of slipping back into substance dependency. He managed through it, through the pain and the painkillers with the help of family and friends. Now, Allan is better than he ever was and much happier than he has ever been.
Allan's story is one of the most inspiring. But there are a lot of stories about complete tummy tuck, Dallas or in any other city or state.
Both Michele Ellingsen & are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Michele Ellingsen has sinced written about articles on various topics from Eyelid Surgery, Tummy Tucks Before and After and Breast Enlargements. A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure, and you'll want to be fully informed before making this decision. Learn more or schedule a consultation for La. Michele Ellingsen's top article generates over 18100 views. to your Favourites.
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