The Procedure |
Abdominoplasty
If you want your stomach to look firm and flat - instead of flabby or fat - a tummy tuck could be the answer to your problem. If you’re an adult, in good health, and close to your ideal body weight, a tummy tuck can give you the flat stomach that pregnancies, heredity or fluctuations in weight took away. Diet and exercise can help you tone and slim down your body, but sit-ups and crunches won’t get rid of that sagging fat and skin hanging around your mid-section. During a tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Krummen will remove that excess, drooping skin and tighten the muscles in the abdominal wall. When she’s finished, your profile will be slimmer, your clothes will fit better and your self-confidence will soar.
The Consultation |
The consultation is your first chance to talk to Dr. Krummen about how you’d like to enhance your appearance. Before arriving for this appointment, know what you want to achieve by having this surgery. Your goals will be an important part of your evaluation. If necessary, write down your questions so you will have all your concerns addressed during this meeting. Dr. Krummen will listen carefully to your concerns and tell you which surgical options she thinks would work best for you. She will also explain the risks and likely results of the procedure. Since both your physical and emotional health have a tremendous impact on the outcome of your surgery, it’s important to be honest with Dr. Krummen about your health history. Every person is different and your operation will be individualized to your specific needs.
The Surgery
If you are healthy and close to your ideal weight, you could be a candidate for a tummy tuck. It’s important to remember that this surgery is not a substitute for any weight loss programs. If you’re trying to lose a substantial amount of weight or are planning a pregnancy in the near future, it is best to put off this procedure.
This operation could take anywhere between 2-5 hours. The type of procedure and size of incisions depend on the operating technique used (Fig. 1 - 4). Dr. Krummen will decide which would work best for you after your initial consultation. Liposuction can easily be added to this procedure to remove excess fat from the surrounding areas.
It will take several weeks to heal completely. Your routine will need to be modified as your body heals. You could return to light activity after a week or so. Initially, you’ll notice some swelling and discoloration. This will fade as you recover. Any discomfort can be treated with medication. Be sure to follow Dr. Krummen’s instructions carefully so you can enjoy the full benefits of the procedure.
