The Benefits of Getting a Tummy Tuck
Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
It is Generally Ideal For:
- Patients who have excess skin around their abs, which diet and exercise cannot seem to correct
- Patients who have maintained their ideal body weight
- Patients who are in good health overall, and do not have any underlying conditions that could impede healing
- Patients who have talked with a plastic surgeon and have realistic expectations
It Is Not So Good For:
- Patients who are looking for a weight loss solution
- Patients whose body weight continues to fluctuate
- Women who think they might still have children in the near future
- Patients with underlying health conditions in high-risk categories
- Patients with unrealistic expectations about the tummy tuck
How Old Do I Have to Be?
As we assess your eligibility for a tummy tuck, we care more about your overall health than your age. Some patients are eligible to get a tummy tuck as young as 18 years old.
The Tummy Tuck Process Explained
The Consultation Process
The first step in the tummy tuck process is to consult with our all-female team, led by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mariam Awada. During your consultation, Dr. Mariam Awada will listen carefully to your needs and goals, and recommend treatment options that are just right for you. Please feel free to ask questions, and Dr. Awada will be happy to answer.
Additionally, she will evaluate your medical history to ensure you are qualified for a safe, successful surgery. Inform Dr. Awada of any allergies before your tummy tuck to prevent any complications. Be ready to take a few lab tests to help our team plan and prepare an effective and safe tummy tuck for you.
Once you are eligible for the procedure, Dr. Awada will create a surgical plan and discuss it with you to help you visualize the possible results. She will help you set realistic goals.
What Should I Do in Preparation?
During your consultation, Dr. Mariam Awada will outline detailed directions, allowing you to prepare for your procedure. This preparation includes dos and don’ts, materials to prepare, the timeline of recovery, and more.
Often, this will mean holding off on medications or supplements that can cause excessive bleeding. You will also need to abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol, and you must maintain a particular diet for a few days leading up to your tummy tuck.
Have someone else drive you on the day of your tummy tuck procedure. It is also highly recommended to arrange for assistance during the first 24 hours after the procedure.
You may need to arrange your resting area with enough pillows for support. This will help you sleep in the correct position during recovery and avoid adding pressure to the newly contoured abdomen.
How Many Sessions Are Involved?
A tummy tuck typically requires a single surgical procedure, though you may also have a couple of follow-up appointments to make sure you are healing correctly.
The initial follow-up appointment usually happens a week after the tummy tuck procedure. Your sutures will likely be removed during this follow-up appointment.
What Is It Like During Surgery?
At Michigan Cosmetic Surgery, we prioritize patient comfort and wellbeing. This includes the provision of anesthesia so that you do not feel any pain or discomfort during the surgery itself. Tummy tucks are typically done on an outpatient basis and may last anywhere from one to five hours.
What Should I Expect in Terms of Recovery?
Recovering from a tummy tuck procedure takes time. You will likely experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising, all of which can last for multiple weeks. You will need to stay home from work for at least one whole week, and may also need to follow some dietary guidelines for a few days. Your surgical team will furnish a complete set of instructions to ensure you are as prepared as possible.
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
“Dr. Awada has made me feel so confident now after having my children. She did an amazing job on my tummy tuck. I’m so happy now. She and the staff supported me so much before and after my surgery.”
-Actual Patient
Other Things to Consider Before Getting a Tummy Tuck
One of the things we are most passionate about at Michigan Cosmetic Surgery is patient education. We want to guarantee that you are fully informed about your treatment options, and ready to make a confident decision.
Are There Any Risks Involved?
As with any surgical intervention, there is a risk of infection as well as anesthesia complications. Other possible risks include bleeding, numbness, and discoloration of the skin. By choosing a qualified plastic surgeon, you can minimize your surgical risks.
Will I Need to Request Extensive Time Off from Work?
Most patients will need between one and two weeks to rest and recover at home. We would recommend arranging for up to six weeks off to allow ample time for your body to heal.
When Can I Resume Exercise?
Walking or stationary cycling can be resumed 3 to 4 weeks after the procedure. Weightlifting, running, or any exercise improving the abdominal area can only be done with caution 6 weeks after the tummy tuck.
Scars After the Surgery
Having a tummy tuck will leave you with some scars. Depending on the type of tummy tuck you get, you may have scarring hidden just under your bikini line, in the belly button, or elsewhere. These scars typically fade quite a bit over time and may eventually be close to invisible. Essentially, Michigan Cosmetic Surgery includes in-house laser treatments with your final surgical quote.
How Long Will My Results Last?
Tummy tuck results are considered permanent in that the skin and tissue that are removed will be gone forever. You can ensure your tummy tuck results are long-lasting by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper diet and exercise. Without the right lifestyle changes, you may develop new fatty tissue along your abdominal area.
Does Insurance Cover the Procedure?
Michigan Cosmetic Surgery does not accept insurance at all at this time.
Is Getting a Tummy Tuck Really Worth It?
Only you can decide whether a tummy tuck is right for you. We will note that the patients who get a tummy tuck from our practice tend to be incredibly satisfied with their results.
Tummy Tuck Cost
The total cost of tummy tuck surgery is determined based on factors like your medical examinations, surgeon’s fee, hospital charges, post-surgery garments, and anesthesia. The exact techniques used will also impact cost, as will the total time needed to perform the surgery.
Tummy Tuck: $9,985+
Minimally Invasive Tummy Tuck: $7,985+
Schedule a Consultation Today!
If you have any questions about tummy tuck in Southfield Michigan or would like to book a consultation with Dr. Awada, please contact Michigan Cosmetic Surgery today. Our skilled team can help you get the sculpted body you have always desired.
Ready to find out more about the benefits of getting a tummy tuck procedure? Schedule your appointment at Michigan Cosmetic Surgery at your next opportunity. Call us at 248-948-5500.
Frequently Asked Questions
about Tummy Tuck
How Long Does It Take to See the Final Results of a Tummy Tuck?
It will take some time to fully recover from your tummy tuck. During the initial healing process, there will be discomfort, swelling, and other side effects. A majority of these issues should clear up by around 2 to 3 weeks of your recovery. You should be able to return to work after 2 weeks or so.
You will need to wait around 4 to 5 weeks before you can resume more physical activities such as working out and heavy lifting. It can take around 6 months to fully recover from your abdominoplasty.
Can a Tummy Tuck Help with Stretch Marks?
During a tummy tuck, tissue is removed from the space between the belly button and the bikini line. Any stretch marks in that area will be removed during the procedure. Any stretch marks elsewhere around the stomach will remain.
Can I Combine a Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures?
A tummy tuck can be combined with other surgical procedures such as a breast augmentation like a mommy makeover or with liposuction to help remove excess fat around the stomach. Our team can let you know which procedures you can combine with your abdominoplasty during your consultation.
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