9th Golden Rule for a Flat Belly: The tummy tuck

The tummy tuck

There are certain situations where fitness, diet and lifestyle changes (including belching it out) are not enough to get you that flat belly.

Situations that may require the tummy tuck

• Multiple pregnancies
• Your abdomen looks deformed after one or more pregnancies
• Your internal muscles have separated due to pregnancy
• You’ve had one or more c-sections that didn’t quite turn out as you had hoped
• You’ve lost a lot of weight (good for you!)
• You may have loose skin on your abdomen
• You may have had abdominal surgery for a tumor or other medical reason
• You’ve tried dieting and exercise but you still have stubborn fat on your belly and you skin is too loose for liposuction
• You’re painfully jealous of your daughter-in-law or your husband’s secretary

There are different types of abdominal surgeries. Your plastic surgeon will recommend the one that is right for you, with or without liposuction.

The traditional tummy tuck: An incision is made at the hipbone and unwanted fat is removed, either with liposuction or a knife. Then the skin is lifted and tightened from the belly button down. All excess skin is removed. The muscles are then tightened by pulling them together, creating a slimmer look. With this method you will have a long scar, and a new belly button will need to be created. It is advised that you do not gain excessive weight because it will ruin the effect.

If you have a smaller amount of loose skin and fat, you may only need a mini tuck. Your belly button will not need to be recreated because the excess is only removed below the belly button.

The other tummy tucks may incorporate work done on the thighs, love handles, the back, and/or the skin above the buttocks.

Recovery Time

Your recovery time will depend on the procedure that was performed, the expertise of the plastic surgeon, and your unique recovery time.

There will be some swelling and bruising which may take several weeks to heal. Your abdomen may feel numb for a while (may take up to one year for the sensations to return) because the little nerve endings were cut during the procedure.

It may be difficult to stand up straight during the first week because the skin needs to adjust. You will need to walk around to prevent blood clots from forming.

Some doctors recommend lymphatic massage during the first week to reduce swelling.

If you’ve had surgery, and you would like to share your experience, please fill out the form below, we’d love to hear from you.

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