Most of us have one area of the body that we dislike and would most like to change above all others.
For many of us, it is the abdomen. Our abdominal area is particularly prone to gaining and holding fat cells. When it does, it grows in size, causing the skin to stretch with it. Sometimes this stretching causes the skin to extend beyond its usual furthest point, and when this happens, it can make it virtually impossible for it to return to being tight and firm again.
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The collagen structure is permanently damaged. As a result, patients are left with excess skin, stretch marks and sagging. In some cases, and particularly in pregnancy, the abdominal muscles may have been so stretched that they have been completely separated (rectus diastasis).
This makes it even harder to regain a firm and flat stomach. Diet and exercise can go some way towards helping, but many patients find that the only way that they can truly restore their previous shape is to undergo a cosmetic surgery known as abdominoplasty. Better known as a tummy tuck, abdominoplasty is a very popular surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat, and repairing the underlying rectus abdominus muscle (ab muscles). The goal is to achieve a firm, flat stomach with a small waist.
Abdominoplasty procedures are serious surgeries and are performed using a general anesthesia, whereby the patient is asleep throughout the operation. Precisely what will be involved in your tummy tuck will depend on your individual circumstances.
Some patients have what is known as a mini-tummy tuck, which focuses purely on the ‘pouch’ between the belly button and pelvic mound. Meanwhile, a full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal area, above and below the belly button, and may actually involve repositioning the belly button into a higher position after the muscles, skin, and fat have been improved.
If the abdominal muscles need to be realigned and tightened, it will be necessary for your surgeon to separate the skin from the muscles first. Once the procedure is complete, the incision created for your abdominoplasty will be closed using sutures, and the wound will be dressed and left to heal.
Dr. Nicholas Jones, expert plastic surgeon in Atlanta specializes in tummy tucks in Atlanta. Patients from all across the states seek his expertise. Dr. Jones focuses on making the scar as low as possible to hide the scar and with the addition of liposuction, he is able to create a great contour and long-lasting shape.
Ideal patients for abdominoplasty include:
As it is such an invasive procedure, Atlanta tummy tuck patients must be sure to prepare for a reasonable recovery period. This is needed not only for the incision to heal but also for any underlying muscles to repair and strengthen.
Initially, you will need to allow time for the general anesthetic to wear off. This could take a number of hours, and during this time you will be groggy and confused. You almost certainly will need to stay in for at least 24 hours, possibly longer depending on how the initial healing period goes.
This enables our team to ensure that your recovery gets off to the best possible start. It is absolutely essential that you follow the guidance provided by our surgical team. This will ensure that you have a healthy, quick and straightforward recovery, but will also support you in achieving the best possible result after your surgery.
Patients who have an abdominoplasty will usually need to take between two to four weeks off of work while they heal – longer if you have a very physical job. During this time, you will be given specific instructions relating to:
For more information about tummy tuck surgery, or to schedule your confidential consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact our experienced cosmetic surgery team in Atlanta, GA.
During your consultation for a tummy tuck Atlanta plastic surgeon, Dr. Nicholas Jones will obtain a complete history and physical exam and based on the information, he will decide if you are a good candidate for surgery. We pride ourselves on doing what’s best for you and some patients may not be a candidate at the time of consultation.
Once you are scheduled, our team will go through the planned schedule with you and your family from your preoperative appointment to your full recovery! You are intimately involved in the process and we depend on you in order for you to have the best possible result.
Common reasons for denial include:
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Come visit Dr. Jones and our team and let us help you achieve the spectacular look you deserve!
3280 Howell Mill Road NW Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30327
