Introduction & Background

A tummy tuck, also referred to as abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgery designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen. It involves the removal of excess fat and skin from the abdominal area and tightening the abdominal muscles to create a smoother, firmer profile. This procedure can be particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced significant weight loss or pregnancy and are left with excess skin or weakened abdominal muscles.

Abdominoplasty is often confused with liposuction, but it is different in that it involves surgical intervention to remove skin and muscle tissue, whereas liposuction focuses on fat removal.

The procedure can range from a mini tummy tuck, which focuses on the lower abdomen, to a full tummy tuck, which addresses the entire abdominal area and includes repositioning of the belly button.

Causes of Excess Abdominal Skin and Weakness

There are several factors that lead to the need for a tummy tuck:

1. Pregnancy: Pregnancy stretches the abdominal skin, and after childbirth, it may not return to its original position. The muscles may also become weakened and separated.
2. Weight Fluctuations: Significant weight loss, especially after bariatric surgery, can leave behind excess skin that does not tighten on its own.
3. Aging: As we age, skin loses its elasticity, and the muscles in the abdomen may weaken, contributing to a saggy or protruding stomach.
4. Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to having excess abdominal skin or weaker abdominal muscles.
5. Post-Surgical: In some cases, after surgery for cancer or other medical conditions, excess abdominal skin or muscle weakening can occur.

Indications for a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is considered a cosmetic surgery, but it can also have functional benefits for certain individuals:

• Excess Abdominal Skin: Those who have lost a significant amount of weight (such as through bariatric surgery) may have excess skin hanging around the stomach.
• Stretched Abdominal Muscles: Often following pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations, the abdominal muscles may separate (diastasis recti), leading to a protruding abdomen.
• Aesthetic Concerns: Individuals who feel self-conscious about their abdominal appearance, including issues such as a sagging stomach, may choose to undergo a tummy tuck for cosmetic purposes.
• Post-Surgical Abdominal Defects: Following major surgery (such as cesarean sections or abdominal surgery), there may be significant scarring or loss of muscle tone in the area.

Symptoms That May Indicate the Need for a Tummy Tuck

Common symptoms or signs that might indicate the need for a tummy tuck include:

• Excessive loose skin in the abdominal area that doesn’t improve with diet and exercise.
• Protruding belly due to separated or weakened abdominal muscles, even after weight loss or pregnancy.
• Visible scars or stretch marks that remain despite attempts to tone or firm the abdomen.
• Chronic discomfort in the abdomen due to the extra skin, such as rashes or irritation.
• Self-esteem issues related to the appearance of the abdominal area.

Prevention Strategies

While some causes of sagging skin or weakened muscles (like aging or genetics) cannot be prevented, several strategies can minimize the risk or severity:

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Stable body weight can reduce the strain on the abdominal skin and muscles.
2. Exercise: Regular abdominal exercises can help keep the muscles strong and toned.
3. Wear Proper Support Garments: Especially during or after pregnancy, wearing support garments can help reduce skin sagging.
4. Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can improve skin elasticity and muscle tone.
5. Avoid Rapid Weight Fluctuations: Gradual weight loss is often less stressful on the skin than rapid changes.

Myths and Facts About Tummy Tucks

• Myth: A tummy tuck can be used as a weight-loss surgery.
  • Fact: A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure; it’s a body contouring procedure aimed at removing excess skin and tightening muscles.
• Myth: Tummy tucks are only for women.
  • Fact: While women often seek tummy tucks post-pregnancy, men, particularly those who have experienced significant weight loss, also undergo the procedure.
• Myth: The results of a tummy tuck are permanent.
  • Fact: While a tummy tuck provides long-lasting results, weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and aging can affect the results.
• Myth: The tummy tuck is extremely painful and requires long recovery.
  • Fact: Although the recovery period can be uncomfortable, modern techniques make the procedure less painful, and most people can return to normal activities after a few weeks.

Treatments and Therapy

Medication-Based Treatments

While there’s no medication that can replicate the effects of a tummy tuck, certain medications may be used during the recovery period to manage pain and inflammation, such as:

• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or prescribed opioids in the immediate post-operative period.
• Antibiotics to prevent infection after the surgery.
• Compression garments to help reduce swelling and improve the shape of the abdomen as it heals.

Surgical Treatments

• Tummy Tuck Surgery: The primary treatment is the surgical procedure itself. The surgery typically involves:
  • Making an incision across the lower abdomen (the length of the incision depends on the extent of the surgery).
  • Removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal region.
  • Tightening the underlying muscles to create a flatter, firmer abdomen.
  • Repositioning the belly button if necessary.
  • The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2 to 5 hours.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Post-operative physical therapy may be recommended to help restore strength and mobility, particularly if the abdominal muscles were tightened significantly. Rehabilitation helps with:

• Restoring movement and flexibility.
• Reducing muscle stiffness.
• Preventing blood clots by promoting circulation.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Interventions

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery is essential for sustaining the results:

• Exercise: Regular, low-impact exercises, especially those that target the abdominal area, can help maintain muscle tone.
• Balanced Diet: A diet rich in lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can support healing and overall health.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine

Some individuals explore alternative treatments to complement their recovery or manage discomfort:

• Massage therapy to reduce swelling and improve circulation in the recovery period.
• Acupuncture may be used to reduce pain and enhance recovery.
• Herbal treatments like arnica are sometimes used to reduce bruising and inflammation, although their effectiveness is not scientifically proven.

Psychotherapy and Counseling

Since abdominoplasty is often performed for cosmetic reasons, some individuals may seek psychological counseling before and after the procedure to manage body image issues, self-esteem, and expectations about the results.

Immunizations and Vaccines

No specific immunizations are required for tummy tuck surgery, but ensuring that you’re up to date on routine vaccinations (such as tetanus) can be beneficial before undergoing surgery.

Stem Cell Therapy

Although not common in tummy tucks, some clinics may offer stem cell therapy to assist in healing and promote skin regeneration. However, the use of stem cells in cosmetic surgery remains experimental and should be discussed thoroughly with a surgeon.

Gene Therapy

Gene therapy is not a current treatment for tummy tuck recovery or prevention, but advances in genetic medicine could offer new ways to enhance healing and skin elasticity in the future.

Top 20 FAQ on Tummy Tucks

1. What is a tummy tuck, and how is it done?

• A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. The procedure typically involves making a horizontal incision along the lower abdomen, removing excess tissue, and re-tightening the abdominal muscles for a firmer appearance.

2. How long does it take to recover from a tummy tuck?

• Recovery typically takes about 4-6 weeks. During this time, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, but they can usually return to work after 1-2 weeks, depending on the type of work they do. Full recovery can take up to 3-6 months.

3. Can I get a tummy tuck if I have stretch marks?

• Yes, a tummy tuck can remove some stretch marks, especially those located below the belly button. However, stretch marks above the belly button may not be affected by the surgery.

4. Is tummy tuck surgery painful?

• Some discomfort is expected after a tummy tuck, but pain can be managed with prescribed medications. Most patients report feeling tightness and soreness in the abdominal area for several weeks, but the pain gradually subsides.

5. How much does a tummy tuck cost?

• The cost of a tummy tuck varies widely based on factors like location, surgeon expertise, and the extent of the surgery. On average, it ranges between $6,000 to $12,000. This price may not include anesthesia, hospital fees, or post-surgery garments.

6. Can I combine a tummy tuck with other surgeries?

• Yes, many patients opt to combine a tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction, breast augmentation, or a mommy makeover, depending on their goals. Combining procedures can often result in a lower overall cost and recovery time.

7. What are the risks of a tummy tuck?

• Risks include infection, blood clots, scarring, poor wound healing, and anesthesia complications. There’s also a risk of seroma (fluid buildup), nerve damage, or asymmetry. Discussing risks with your surgeon can help minimize potential complications.

8. Is tummy tuck surgery covered by insurance?

• Tummy tuck surgery is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, so it is not covered by insurance. However, if the surgery is deemed medically necessary (e.g., due to functional issues with the abdomen), some insurance providers may offer partial coverage.

9. How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?

• The results of a tummy tuck are long-lasting, but they can be affected by weight gain, pregnancy, or the natural aging process. Maintaining a stable weight and leading a healthy lifestyle will help preserve the results.

10. Can a tummy tuck remove fat?

• While a tummy tuck does remove some fat, its primary goal is to remove excess skin and tighten the muscles. If you have significant fat deposits, liposuction may be performed in conjunction with the tummy tuck for more comprehensive body contouring.

11. How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?

• Before a tummy tuck, you’ll need a pre-surgery consultation to ensure you are a good candidate. Your surgeon will advise you to stop smoking, avoid certain medications, and arrange for post-operative care. It’s also important to maintain a stable weight before the procedure.

12. What should I expect during the consultation?

• During the consultation, your surgeon will assess your health, discuss your goals, and explain the details of the procedure. You will also discuss your medical history, and the surgeon will take measurements and photos of your abdomen to plan the surgery.

13. How do I know if I’m a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

• Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are generally in good health, have excess skin or weakened abdominal muscles, and are close to their ideal weight. It’s also important to have realistic expectations about the results.

14. What happens if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

• Pregnancy after a tummy tuck can affect the appearance of your abdomen, as the skin may stretch and the muscles may separate again. If you plan to have more children, it’s generally advised to wait until after pregnancy before undergoing the surgery.

15. Can men get tummy tucks?

• Yes, tummy tucks are not limited to women. Men, especially those who have experienced significant weight loss, also seek tummy tucks to remove excess skin and achieve a firmer abdomen.

16. Will I have visible scars after a tummy tuck?

• A tummy tuck will leave a scar, typically along the lower abdomen. The length of the scar depends on the extent of the surgery. However, the scar is usually hidden under clothing and can fade over time. In some cases, a surgeon may opt for a more discreet incision.

17. Can a tummy tuck fix diastasis recti?

• Yes, a tummy tuck can address diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles separate. During the procedure, the surgeon can repair and tighten the muscles, which can restore a firmer and more toned abdominal wall.

18. Can I return to work after a tummy tuck?

• Most people can return to work after about 1-2 weeks, depending on the nature of their job. Jobs that involve heavy lifting or strenuous activity may require a longer recovery time, typically around 4-6 weeks.

19. Are there any non-surgical alternatives to a tummy tuck?

• Non-surgical alternatives to a tummy tuck include treatments like CoolSculpting, ultrasound, or laser therapy. However, these options are typically less effective than surgery and may not provide the same dramatic results.

20. Can a tummy tuck improve my posture?

• Yes, a tummy tuck can improve posture by tightening and strengthening the abdominal muscles. This can reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen and provide better support for the spine, leading to improved posture.

Conclusion

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a transformative surgery that can help individuals achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen by removing excess skin, fat, and tightening the abdominal muscles. Though it is primarily cosmetic, it can also have functional benefits, particularly for those who have experienced pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or major weight loss. Like any surgical procedure, it comes with risks and requires proper post-operative care for optimal results. Understanding the procedure, having realistic expectations, and consulting a board-certified surgeon are crucial for those considering this life-changing surgery.

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Otherwise called Abdominoplasty, dr Aman’s clinic fold medical procedure helps in eliminating abundance fat from stomach region while offering firmer and smoother stomach profile. A very much conditioned and level belly is something numerous individuals endeavor to have by rehearsing weight control and exercise. When exercise and get-healthy plans don’t work, numerous individuals settle on a stomach fold medical procedure.  Dr Aman’s clinic fold system is appropriate for both solid ladies and men. Ladies who have had a few pregnancies may profit by dr Aman’s clinic fold technique as the treatment is discovered helpful in fixing abs and decreasing droopy skin. Moreover, a stomach fold is likewise a reasonable alternative for once fat people. Free skin around the stomach and abundance fat is handily taken consideration by a belly fold medical procedure. 

WHO SHOULD NOT OPT FOR an ABDOMINOPLASTY? 

Ladies who intend to get pregnant ought to defer the arrangement until they have kids. Belly fold medical procedure fixes the vertical muscles that may get isolated during pregnancy 

• Tummy tuck fold ought to consistently be the final retreat for individuals who can’t get thinner through eating routine and exercise 
• The presence of scars is normal after a stomach fold technique. 
• Talking about the conceivable symptoms of techniques is fitting to settle on an educated choice. 

Dangers ASSOCIATED WITH TUMMY TUCK SURGERY 

Like some other medical procedure, there are various dangers and potential intricacies related with the Tummy tuck fold methodology. The Tummy tuck fold medical procedure cost relies upon different elements including the specialist, emergency clinic and the strategy utilized, so understanding the dangers is fundamental. Stomach fold chances include: 

• Growing and torment around the medical procedure territory 
• Skin staining 
• Scarring 
• Seroma (liquid amassing) 
• Seeping under the skin fold (uncommon) 
• Changes in skin sensation 

Specialists examine the potential dangers before the medical procedure and official choice is consistently of the patient. It’s basic for the patient to deliver every one of their inquiries to the specialist decisively for a good outcome.

ABDOMINOPLASTY/TUMMY TUCK SURGERY-BEFORE AND AFTER 

Prior to the Surgery 

Specialists for the most part request that the patients avoid a few propensities for an effective Tummy tuck fold strategy. For instance, patients are approached to stop smoking at any rate a month and a half before the methodology, or Tummy tuck price. Why? Since smoking hinders the mending cycle and may turn into a reason for difficulties during or after the medical procedure. Moreover, the specialist may ask the patient to – 

• Get a clinical assessment through different lab tests 
• Meds to change present ailments 
• Maintain a strategic distance from anti-inflamatory medicine or some other calming drug 

During the Surgery 

During the stomach fold medical procedure, the specialist straightens out the free stomach skin with stitches. The entry point is done along the two-piece line,and the shape and length of it change as per the measure of overabundance skin in the stomach territory. For a superior shape, liposuction may likewise be added to the system. The patient as a rule remain 1-2 evenings in the clinic. 

The four stages associated with a belly fold medical procedure incorporates : 

• Sedation 
• Making the Incisions 
• Managing and Repositioning 
• Stitching and Repairing 

Conclusion 

After the Surgery 

After a fruitful stomach fold system, the specialist advises the patient about the recuperating cycle, nitty gritty consideration directions and how to deal with the entry point. 

Data gave by the specialist include: 

• Channels (assuming any) and how to deal with them 
• Post-medical procedure indications 
• Likely confusions 
• Torment around the careful region 
• Abstaining from enjoying any demanding actual exercises to forestall tension on the stomach region 
• Keep the entry point territory secured with dressing for greatest insurance against diseases and further complexities

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Source – https://www.femina.in/

Self-love is the best, and it is important to accept yourself just the way you are, imperfections and all. But if you have some insecurities that you really want to take care of in the hope that it makes you feel more confident about your body and yourself, then that is fine too. You do what you think is best for your body and self-confidence. In some cases, it could also be certain imperfections caused by disease or other underlying health issues that one might want to correct and therefore, to seek cosmetic treatment might be the ticket. After all, feeling beautiful is something everyone should be able to experience. That being said, if you are contemplating cosmetic treatments here in India, we give you a lowdown on some popular surgeries you might be interested in.

We asked Dr Ramani CV, Consultant – Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgery, Manipal Hospitals, Whitefield, to help us out with the gritty detail of cosmetic surgeries in India. Here is what he has to say.

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Dr. Kelly: I want to use my time off from work to get some cosmetic surgery done. I saw a surgeon who said he could do a breast lift with implants at the same time as an abdominoplasty and liposuction of the back, hips, and thighs. He said the surgery will take about 8 hours. Do you think it is a good idea to do that much surgery in one setting? I really want to do it all at once.

Response. I would definitely NOT recommend doing all of that surgery at one time. The primary reason is that the risks of complications are greatly increased once surgery lasts longer than 6 hours. One study showed that the risks of pneumonia, heart problems and fever increase 18-36% for each hour of surgery over 6 hours.

In addition, an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) has an inherently higher risk for DVT and PE (blood clots to legs and lungs) than other cosmetic surgery procedures. This is because the abdominal muscle tightening that occurs during the procedure initially slows the return of blood from the legs after surgery and that slowing of blood flow raises the risk of a clot forming.

In my practice, we do the following to make surgery safer: 1. When I do an abdominoplasty, it takes me about two hours to do the surgery and I don’t combine it with other procedures. 2. When I do combine procedures other than abdominoplasty, I aim to complete the operation within 4 hours and never go over six hours. 3.

We screen patients for their risk of DVT and treat patients with blood thinners after surgery if they are at increased risk.

The safe way to do multiple procedures is to break them up and do them separately. I usually ask patients to wait 6 weeks between procedures to reduce the risks of complications. While cosmetic surgery is important, and truly helps patients feel better about themselves; it is still elective surgery that doesn’t have to be done.

Given that perspective, both surgeons and patients should strive to make sure that it is done as safely as possible.

About Dr. Kelly

Dr. Kelly is a board-certified Plastic Surgeon and partner in both Miami Plastic Surgery and MPS MedSpa. He has been in practice over 25 years and has been recognized by his peers both nationally and internationally as one of the best plastic surgeons in the United States.

In addition to being an expert on Cosmetic Surgery, his practice encompasses the entire spectrum of non-invasive treatments such as Botox, fillers, CoolSculpting, ultrasound, lasers and radiofrequency.

He also believes in giving back to our community, having served on the Village Council for eight years and volunteering as a coach for our youth sports programs. You can email him questions at mkelly@miamiplasticsurgery.com.

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More than 1.5 million tummy tuck procedures were performed last year alone. The surgery, which involves removing fat and sagging excess skin and repairing the muscles that have become stretched out, continues to be one of the most sought-after aesthetic procedures. But like any other type of plastic surgery, doing your homework is crucial to managing realistic expectations and a best-in-class outcome. 

Here, tummy-tuck expert and Voorhees Township, NJ plastic surgeon William Franckle, MD outlines six things to know before scheduling your surgery.

There are different types of tummy tucks.
The two main types are a traditional tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty) and a reverse tummy tuck (or reverse abdominoplasty). A traditional tummy tuck addresses both the upper and lower abdomen. “The procedure involves removing fat and loose skin, as well as repairing the abdominal muscles that have separated during pregnancy, weight fluctuation or natural aging,” explains Dr. Franckle. “A traditional tummy tuck is ideal for people who have lost weight and have left over loose skin—this procedure works from the chest down to the waistline.”

Dr. Franckle explains that a reverse tummy tuck was designed to tighten the abdomen of patients who may have had previous surgeries, such as an open-incision gall bladder removal, “which makes the lower incision of the traditional tummy tuck dangerous because of alteration of the blood supply.” Although a reverse abdominoplasty removes fat and skin from the upper abdomen well, Dr. Franckle contends “it does not do as good a job on the lower abdomen, especially if there is overhanging skin at the waist line. It is not performed very often.”

However, there are also many variations of a traditional abdominoplasty, which Dr. Franckle says are chosen based on the unique needs of every patient. “If you are looking to reduce excess fat on your abdomen, a full tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck or liposuction alone may be your best option. Generally, if loose skin and/or stretch marks are a concern, experts prefer a tummy tuck over liposuction. “A consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon can determine which tummy tuck technique is best for you.

You might not be the best candidate.
Generally, Dr. Franckle describes a good candidate for a tummy tuck as someone who is physically healthy, at a stable weight, a nonsmoker and someone with realistic expectations for what can be achieved with surgery. “Patients who are morbidly obese or have other serious health problems may need to have these problems addressed before considering plastic surgery,” says Dr. Franckle. “Bariatric surgery can also assist the morbidly obese patient with achieving significant weight loss and overall improvement of their health status prior to plastic surgery.”

If you’re a smoker, Dr. Franckle advises quitting at least one month prior to surgery. “Smoking increases the risk of a poor outcome—from the quality of healing to more serious problems such as blood clots, wound breakdown and more.”

You’ll need to plan for a long recovery.
A typical recovery for a tummy tuck is between two and six weeks, but most of the bruising and swelling will dissipate within this period. “In my practice, most people return to work in an office environment after 10 days,” says Dr. Franckle. “Full recovery for vacations or activities that may involve swimming or hiking can be as soon as two months. Full healing and maturation of scars may take from 9 months to a year or more, depending on the patient.”

Insurance probably won’t cover your surgery. 
The average cost for a tummy tuck can range anywhere from $6,000 to 12,000 or sometimes even more. “Because a tummy tuck is a cosmetic procedure, health insurance plans do not usually cover the surgery,” says Dr. Franckle. “Sometimes an associated hernia or chronic skin irritation may give some insurance coverage depending on the health plan.”

There’s a high level of risk.
Due to the advanced nature of the procedure, tummy tucks have a very high rate of complication—many experts agree it has the highest rate of all plastic-surgery procedures. “Most patients are familiar with the look of a tummy tuck scar across the lower waistline, but what they don’t see is the underlying process that mobilizes and advances the tissue in order to remove the excess and create a pleasing body contour,” says Dr. Franckle.

The most common complications include delayed wound healing, minor skin infections and fluid collections (aka seromas). “Less common complications are poor scar healing requiring revision, persistent seromas and blood clots leading to pulmonary embolism. Generally, the sooner the patient is up and moving around, the better to prevent these problems.”

Seeing an expert is critical to a proper outcome.
Prior to booking your procedure, Dr. Franckle offers up this helpful list of questions to ask your surgeon: Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? Were you trained specifically in the field of plastic surgery? How many procedures of this type have you performed? Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? If so, at which hospitals? Am I a good candidate for this procedure? What can I expect for my recovery and post procedure visits to your office?

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Tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) yields high patient satisfaction and improved quality of life in patients who are overweight or obese – despite a substantial risk of complications, reports a study in the October issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery®, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

An “overwhelming majority” of overweight/obese patients are happy with the results of abdominoplasty, according to the study by Dennis C. Hammond, MD, and colleagues of Partners in Plastic Surgery of West Michigan, Grand Rapids. They write, “A real quality of life improvement can be obtained by offering body contouring even in the face of obesity, with the caveat that the risk of minor postoperative complications is high.”

Abdominoplasty is an effective procedure to improve the appearance of the abdomen. However, this and other body contouring procedures have historically been discouraged in overweight or obese patients. That reflects concerns that increased body mass index (BMI) may increase the risk of wound healing problems and other complications.

The researchers analyzed the outcomes of tummy tuck surgery in 46 overweight/obese patients over a 12-year period. The patients were 41 women and five men, average age 49 years. All had a BMI of 25 or higher, with an average BMI of 32. (A BMI of 25 or higher is considered overweight, while a BMI of 30 is the cutoff point for obesity.)

Eighty percent of patients underwent abdominoplasty, most often including a procedure to restore weakened or separated abdominal muscles. The remaining 20 percent had a procedure called panniculectomy to eliminate excess, “hanging” abdominal fat and skin. The researchers analyzed the outcomes of surgery, including complication rates and patient-rated outcomes.

Nearly half of patients had some type of complication. About 39 percent had minor complications, requiring office procedures or antibiotics. About nine percent of patients had major complications requiring a return to the operating room – mainly due to wound healing problems and/or fluid collections.

Thirty-six patients completed follow-up surveys an average of 15 months after their procedure. Ninety-four percent of patients were satisfied with the results of abdominoplasty/panniculectomy, while 97 percent stated they would choose to have the procedure again. Ninety-seven percent of patients said the procedure had improved their quality of life. Nearly half of patients said they lost additional weight after surgery.

“Abdominoplasty and panniculectomy in the overweight and obese patient presents as a surgical decision-making challenge for the treating surgeon,” Dr. Hammond and coauthors write. Due to their increased risk of complications, patients are commonly advised to lose weight before undergoing body contouring surgery.

The researchers note, “Even with weight loss, the excess skin and fat…will not completely recede and can still present as an impediment to normal function and exercise.” While acknowledging the increased risks, they offered abdominoplasty or panniculectomy to overweight/obese patients “in an attempt to relieve the discomfort and physical effects of the excess skin and fat and offer the potential to jumpstart a weight loss process.”

The authors believe their results support this strategy. Although complications were frequent, most were minor and readily manageable, and many patients lost more weight after surgery. Dr. Hammond and colleagues conclude: “[E]ven in the face of this elevated complication rate, patient satisfaction is overwhelmingly high, making body contouring procedures in this patient population an acceptable option in appropriately selected patients.”

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Common Plastic Surgery Procedures : The popularity of plastic surgery is growing, with millions of surgical procedures taking place every year. In the last decade alone, the number of plastic surgeries has increased by over ninety percent. And, it’s not just women anymore, men are increasingly contributing to this boom. Unlike cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery is reconstructive in nature, meaning it is intended to correct dysfunctional areas of the body .

To enhance chances of success, and also for safety, reconstructive surgeries should be done by a physician with a certain level of training. A plastic surgeon must be board-certified and have sufficient training that combines both general surgery and a few additional years of plastic surgery. If you find yourself in need of a plastic surgery procedure, consult Michael macdonald MD, a trained, qualified and licensed plastic surgeon. He will help you decide which of the many plastic surgery procedures outlined below is suitable for you.

• Liposuction

  Liposuction is a common plastic surgery procedure that involves suctioning fat from specific areas of your body to improve your shape and general appearance. There are two types of liposuction procedures; Tumescent Liposuction and Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction (UAL). Between the two, Tumescent Liposuction is the most popular one. It involves infusing a saline solution, a numbing agent, into the area to be treated and sucking it out together with the fat through hollow metal instruments called cannulas. A UAL procedure uses ultrasonic energy to melt the fat so that it can be suctioned easily.

• Breast Augmentation
  

  Breast Augmentation refers to the surgical enhancement of women’s breasts. It has become hugely popular and is done for many reasons including enlarging, replacing or equalizing asymmetrical breasts to increase self-confidence. Some of the risks involved include breast pain, infection, implant rupture or changes in nipple sensation. Incisions are made and the breast implants placed beneath the breast tissue or chest muscles. Recovery may take a week or two but sometimes, additional surgery may be required.

• Abdominoplasty

  Popularly known as lower body lift or tummy tuck, Abdominoplasty is a surgical process where excess skin from the abdominal area is removed and the rest is tightened. The ideal candidate has excess skin hanging from the abdomen. The procedure is particularly popular among women who have excess skin after delivering a baby or who have lost lots of weight after bariatric surgery. The recovery period for most patients is two or three weeks though they may still have limits on carrying out strenuous physical activity.

• Rhytidectomy

  Also referred to as a facelift, this is a surgical procedure that helps remove wrinkles and sagging by tightening the tissues beneath the jaw, cheeks, and neck. The platysma muscle is tightened to rejuvenate the neck and is secured to the mastoid bone behind the ear. This pulls back the skin making it tighter, minimizing sagging, smoothing deep lines, and creating a more youthful appearance. A facelift is usually combined with another procedure such as eyelid shaping or forehead lift, to further enhance your appearance. Patients recover within two weeks, but healing will be complete within 3 months.

• Rhinoplasty

  Rhinoplasty also known as a nose job, rhinoplasty helps reshape the nose, bringing it into alignment with the rest of the face. If done for cosmetic reasons, one has to pay out-of-pocket but if done for health reasons such as improving breathing (deviated septum), then insurance will likely cover it. Bruising, redness and swelling should subside within two weeks.

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