Choosing to undergo a tummy tuck—or any other plastic surgery procedure—is a major decision. Our Fort Myers patients often want to make the most of their initial consultation by asking the “right” questions. While there are really no “wrong” questions to ask your surgeon, some discussion topics are more useful than others. If you are considering a tummy tuck and want to know more about the procedure, here are a few things to discuss during your first appointment.
#1: Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Ultimately, you’ll have to decide if tummy tuck surgery is right for your goals, budget, and lifestyle. Once you tell your doctor your goals, they can analyze your body and see if the surgery can accomplish what you’re looking for. Any good surgeon will deter you from choosing a procedure that won’t yield positive results. If you have relatively good skin quality and areas unwanted fat, for example, you may be better suited for liposuction or a nonsurgical treatment.
Tummy tuck surgery is best for those who want to tone and tighten the midsection. The procedure:
- Removes excess skin and stretch marks
- Flattens a “belly pooch”
- Restores damaged abdominal muscles
- Enhances the contours of your midsection
#2: How are you uniquely qualified to perform my tummy tuck?
When it comes to plastic surgery, you deserve nothing but the best. Your tummy tuck should be performed by a trusted, experienced professional. One of the easiest ways to find a skilled doctor is to search for a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This helps ensure that your doctor has had years of extensive training. The ABPS is the only board that requires 6 to 9 years of training dedicated specifically to plastic surgery. You can also ask how many tummy tucks the surgeon has performed, and ask to see photos of their results.
#3: What will my tummy tuck recovery be like and how long will it take?
Tummy tuck surgery is an extensive procedure with a comparatively longer recovery time. Before committing to surgery, it’s important to understand what is involved in the healing process. A combination of rest and walking is required the first week after treatment. Most patients can return to work after 2 to 3 weeks, but exercise should wait until at least 6 weeks after surgery. Your doctor can give you more specific post-op advice during your consultation.
#4: Should I combine my tummy tuck with other procedures?
A tummy tuck can remove sagging skin and repair damaged muscles, but it isn’t the only transformative procedure. Many patients undergo a tummy tuck as part of a Mommy Makeover—a suite of body contouring treatments that lift and sculpt the body from head to toe. This approach is often used by those who have undergone pregnancy or lost a significant amount of weight. A Mommy Makeover can include a tummy tuck, liposuction, breast augmentation, and more. Ask your doctor if you could benefit from combining other procedures with your tummy tuck.
By knowing what questions to ask during your tummy tuck consultation, you can head into your procedure with confidence. If you’re in the Fort Myers area and would like to learn more about plastic surgery treatments, please request a consultation online or call (239) 262-5662.
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