Abdominoplasty, which is most commonly referred to as a ‘tummy tuck’ is one of the most sought after cosmetic surgery procedures by both men and women The tummy tuck procedure changes the appearance of the abdomen by removing the loose and over-stretched skin, tighten the underlying muscles and removing fat, so that you are left with a smoother, tighter and more youthful abdomen. It is no wonder that so many women and men opt for this surgery! In 2015, the tummy tuck surgery was one of the top five cosmetic surgical procedures performed in the U.S. This figure was up 9% from 2014. Although the incision for a tummy tuck is long, the incisions are made in the lower abdomen and around the edge of the belly button in order to help hide the scars.
A tummy tuck surgery in Toronto is a great option for women who have persistent abdominal skin excess and stretch marks as a result of pregnancy. It is also an excellent solution for men and women with excess skin and fat left behind after weight loss. A tummy tuck surgery in Toronto will help give you the definition that is often impossible to achieve with diet and exercise alone.
For women, during the pregnancy, the skin on the abdomen stretches to accommodate the growing baby. The skin tries to shrink back to its previous size and position after the baby is born, however it is not always able to do so. In addition, the muscles of the abdomen spreads apart in the middle due to the pressure place on them. This separation is called a “diastasis” although this does not create a functional problem it contributes to the loss of abdominal flatness after pregnancy.
Tummy tuck surgery in Toronto is similar for men and women who had undergone weight loss. Our skin is made of different molecules and fibers, one of which is called elastin. Elastin fibers can be thought of as springs found throughout the skin. When the elastin fibers are stretched a little (like when you pinch the skin on the back of your hand), it stretches like a spring and snaps back when you let it go. However, when the skin is stretched too far (as it happens with pregnancy or with excessive weight gain over a period of time), the elastin fibers get over-stretched or break and are no longer able to snap back to the way they were. This results in excess loose skin and stretch marks on the abdomen.
Tummy tuck surgery in Toronto can often be combined with breast procedures that would include a breast augmentation, breast reduction or a breast lift. This combination of the breast procedure and the tummy tuck is commonly referred to as the “mommy makeover” procedure.
What to Expect from Your Tummy Tuck in Toronto
Tummy tuck procedures are usually performed as a day-surgery procedure where you would be able to return home on the same day. Patients are able to be up and walking immediately after surgery. A surgical abdominal garment will be provided and you would be required to wear the garment for up to one month post-operatively. Small drains are often used to prevent fluid collection under the skin and are removed during the first or second week after your surgery.
Patients are up and walking immediately after surgery but are required to wear a surgical abdominal girdle and avoid any strenuous or lifting activity for 4-6 weeks. There are various techniques used during a tummy tuck, depending on how much work you need or want done. This is something that you and Dr. Beber will be able to discuss in detail during your consultation. Together you will choose a plan that best works for your body and desired results.