Many people hear tummy tuck and think weight loss surgery, but actually it is a procedure done after a significant weight loss has already taken place, to remove loose skin and improve ones appearance. Many times it is considered a minor procedure, when in reality it is a major operation, with just as many risks as any other invasive surgery.

Another term for this surgery is abdominoplasty, where loose skin, and at times, skin that has stretch marks is removed. The abdominal muscles are usually tightened up with sutures as well. This results in a dramatic reduction of a protruding abdomen.

Of course, as with any surgery there is some swelling and pain. Depending on the extent of the surgery you may be discharged within a few hours, or remain in the hospital for several days. After surgery you will be encouraged to take a slow walk, however, it is likely that you will not be able to stand straight. Since the skin on the abdomen will be quite tight you will be instructed to remain bent over at around 45 degrees.

There will be drains placed in your body during the surgery to remove extra fluid. While the drains are in place, you will be on bed rest with a very small amount of walking. Approximately 4 days after the surgery you may begin to straighten up but your doctor will advise you to not overdo the movement. Remember, even though it is an elective surgery, it is still a major invasive surgery and recovery times will reflect this fact.

Your doctor may suggest an alternative to the full procedure if he feels that it would be more beneficial to you. This alternative, called a mini tummy tuck, is very similar to the original procedure but this one targets the lower abdomen only. There are, of course, other benefits to having this particular surgery, which is also known as a partial abdominoplasty. One benefit is the fact that it will take less time for the operation.

Some are under the impression that this method is the same as a liposuction procedure, but that is not the case. The major difference is that an abdominoplasty is performed to remove excess skin that has been stretched out, possibly after a substantial weight loss. Liposuction surgery is used to actually remove the fat.

Perhaps you have wondered why someone would want to have a tummy tuck, which is an elective surgery. If a person was seriously overweight and suddenly lost a significant amount of weight, which may be the result of some type of weight loss surgery, their skin will very likely no longer “fit” their body. When this type of weight loss is achieved, you naturally want to improve the rest of your appearance, which would include removing the excess skin and tightening up the muscles.

Cosmetic surgery has become all the rage and it is no wonder. People are simply unhappy with their bodies. Perhaps it is a few wrinkles or it may be a pocket of cellulite that simply will not go away with exercise. Have hope though before you go under the knife of a plastic surgeon. There are alternatives to liposuction that may work out to your advantage. Creams and certain lotions have been proven to help reduce cellulite and it may be just what you need to rid yourself of that unsightly cellulite budge. Click here for more information:Liposuction Chart and at Liposuction of The Tummy

Tags: Tummy Tuck