The stomach muscle and skin stretch and sag after extreme weight loss or multiple pregnancies. Unfortunately, a physical workout does not get rid of excess skin.
A tummy tuck is a welcome alternative if you want to remove extra skin and tighten your weakened or separated abdominal muscles.
Several plastic surgeons perform abdominoplasty in Tampa, FL. All you have to do is find a qualified practitioner for the procedure.
What Is Abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves abdominal aesthetics and functioning.
This procedure:
- Tightens muscles
- Removes excess skin and fat
- Removes abdominal scars
- Repairs ventral hernias
- Corrects stress urinary incontinence
- Decreases back pain
- Improves posture
What Happens During a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck operation begins with anesthesia for your comfort during the procedure. The anesthesiologist uses intravenous sedation or general anesthesia, depending on your condition. Once the patient is unconscious, the plastic surgeon makes a horizontal incision between the pubic hairline and belly button. The length of the incision depends on the degree of repair needed.
The surgeon then makes a second incision around the belly button if there is a need to work on the upper abdomen. The upper abdomen skin then gets pulled down toward the pubic region and sutured to close the incisions. The surgeon can also use skin adhesives, tapes, or clips to seal the surgical site.
The Cost of Abdominoplasty in Tampa, FL
The charges of abdominoplasty in Tampa, FL, vary between practitioners because of several variations in services rendered. The best way to find out the cost is to call your chosen practice for a quote.
Abdominoplasty Cost Breakdown
- Surgeon’s fee – Pricing depends on qualification, experience, and service demand. A highly sought-out surgeon is more expensive than someone new in the field. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons states the average cost of a plastic surgeon’s fee is $6,154.
- Anesthesiologist fee – A tummy tuck is most often performed under general anesthesia. The anesthesiologist monitors your vitals and anesthesia effects during the procedure.
- Surgical team costs – The nurses, cleaners, and other medical personnel are also included in your payment.
- Operational facility charges – Utilities, bed use, garments, and surgical instruments contribute to the surgery cost.
- Tests and medication – Blood work, consultations, examinations, and pre, mid, and postoperative medicines are part of the tummy tuck cost.
What to Expect During a Tummy Tuck Recovery
The recovery process depends on several factors, including an individual’s genes, care, nutrition, and hydration. Most patients experience the highest degree of discomfort in the first week.
After a tummy tuck procedure, belly soreness will persist the first week after surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage the discomfort. The pain usually becomes manageable by the second week.
However, the severity depends on your degree of rest. The first two weeks should be exclusive for recuperation. Avoid doing any work and have a comfortable resting place.
From the third and fourth week, expect a bit of numbness and sensitivity on the incision site. The sensitivity will persist even after complete healing because of sensory cells’ disruption during incision.
FAQs
Is a Tummy Tuck Right for Me?
A tummy tuck is appropriate for anybody with distended abdominal muscles, excess abdominal fat and skin, a vertical hernia, posture issues, and back pain from abdominal weight and curvature.
A tummy tuck is also for anyone desiring a flat and firm abdomen that is proportional to your body shape and weight.
However, you must be within 10 to 15 percent of your ideal weight. If you are overweight, the plastic surgeon will advise on weight loss during your initial consultation. The right candidate should also not be a smoker since nicotine interferes with wound healing.
Does a Tummy Tuck Solve Urinary Incontinence?
Urinary incontinence is the inability to control a full bladder. The leakage occurs because the pelvic floor has weak muscles. Abdominal wall muscles weaken after pregnancy, disease, or as a result of genetic issues. A tummy tuck can strengthen and tighten your lower abdominal muscle, resulting in better urine control.
Are There Any Tummy Tuck Side Effects?
The side effects of a tummy tuck are usually limited to wound healing if a qualified surgeon conducts the operation. The pain is highest a week after the procedure and gradually subsides in subsequent weeks. You will also have bruising and swelling on the incision site, which continuously improves weeks after the surgery.
There is also a pulling sensation and tightness around the abdominal region. Your posture will also be affected as the soreness and numbness persist. However, the severity of the discomfort is manageable and improves with time.
