Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure to get rid of excess fatty tissues and tighten muscles around the abdominal area. It requires the plastic surgeon to make an incision from hipbone to hipbone so as to dissect skin for removal of extra fat. It also includes tightening of muscles and repositioning of belly button. The result is a well-toned and firmer looking abdomen.
This cosmetic surgery is usually done under general anesthesia. The incision is sealed after the completion of the surgery and a small drainage tube may be placed under the skin to collect any extra fluid or blood during the recovery period. Complete recovery can take several weeks so as to allow the healing of the internal stitches.
Though tummy tuck is among the popular cosmetic surgeries, especially among women who have given birth and are struggling with loose skin or extra abdominal fat, the recovery period can restrict daily physical activities for a while. There are also some alternative options to a traditional tummy tuck.
Popular Alternatives for A Tummy Tuck
Laser liposuction procedure: This procedure involves minimal invasion to be made for taking out the fat. It is a great non-surgical alternative to shape up the abdominal area when other methods like diet and exercise fail to bring desired results.
Coolsculpting is a new technology that was developed to kill fat cells without surgery. Normally, when we lose or gain weight, the number of fat cells we have remains constant. This means, that when we lose weight the fat cells we have do not go away, they simply shrink.
Lipodissolve: Post-pregnancy weight can easily be reduced with the help of this technique. Some medications and mild enzymes are injected into the specific area of the patient’s body where the extra fat needs to be melted.
Ultrasound cavitation:In this method, ultrasound energy is used for melting the fatty deposits from the targeted area. These fatty deposits are then removed by the lymphatic system of the body. This procedure is painless and involves no incision to be made in the patient’s body.
VelaSmooth:The effect of techniques such as massage rollers, suctioning, infra-red vibrations and son on help in breaking fat cells which are then naturally removed from the body. This procedure also does not require any anesthesia to be given to the patient and is a non-surgical technique.
Thermage:This technique is extremely helpful in melting the extra fat and firming up the abdominal skin. The stimulation of the production of collagen is the basis for this treatment. It may not be the most suitable option for extremely obese patients
Non-Surgical Abdominal Skin Tightening
Although it is believed that non-surgical procedures are not as effective in tightening the stomach muscles as a tummy tuck, these alternatives can definitely prove to be effective and suitable for patients looking for faster recovery options.
Dr. Lane Smith is a reputed surgeon at the Smith Plastic Surgery Institute in Las Vegas, NV and advices on talking to the plastic surgeon before settling for any of these options. He has won several honors and awards including the Jack Anderson Award for Scholastic Excellence given by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He has several years of experience in cosmetic surgery and specializes in all types of body contouring and reconstructive procedures customized to meet his patient’s needs.
