How to Maintain the Results of Your Tummy Tuck

After pregnancy or considerable weight loss, you may be experiencing excess, stretched-out abdominal skin. You may even be struggling with a "pooch" or unwanted pockets of fat that won't go away, no matter how much you exercise or how well you eat. In that case, a tummy tuck could be an excellent body contouring option for you. More formally known as abdominoplasty, tummy tuck surgery helps Pasadena, CA women and men reclaim their bodies by removing excess skin and stubborn pockets of fat with liposuction to reveal a more fit-looking, slimmer midsection.

Based in Pasadena, CA, Dr. Omar Ahmed is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgical specialist and founder of Omar Ahmed, M.D. Dr. Ahmed and his dedicated team are eager to help patients be prepared to maintain their fantastic, long-term tummy tuck results by sticking to a healthy diet afterward. If you are considering tummy tuck surgery, here is more information on this body contouring procedure, the recovery, and what you can do afterward to maintain your fantastic results.

Body contouring surgery

Many factors can lead to stretched-out abdominal skin or unwanted fatty tissue, like pregnancy, significant weight loss, or age. Tummy tuck surgery helps individuals reclaim their bodies by removing excess skin. During the procedure, we may also utilize liposuction to reduce small but stubborn pockets of fat. Since this body contouring procedure is not considered a weight-loss solution, Dr. Ahmed advises that you be near or at your ideal body weight before surgery. During your one-on-one consultation, Dr. Ahmed will determine the surgical method needed to achieve your aesthetic goals. Based on the amount of laxity of skin, patients may require a full tummy tuck. Individuals with minimal excess skin are likely suited for a less invasive technique with a mini tummy tuck.

Tummy tuck surgery and recovery

Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, is an outpatient procedure performed using general anesthesia. Following the procedure, patients are monitored in one of our recovery rooms and released to a responsible friend or family member to recover at home. Compression garments are provided to encourage proper blood circulation to begin the healing process and reduce swelling. Moving around and walking will be uncomfortable at first but encouraged after a few days of resting. Movement becomes easier after incisions begin to heal and the abdominal muscles adjust to their new position. You can usually get back to your normal routine in about two weeks, resuming exercise only after Dr. Ahmed has cleared you.

Weight management plan after tummy tuck surgery

After your recovery from this body contouring procedure, you will be excited to start enjoying your new results. Typically, the cosmetic outcome from tummy tuck surgery is long-term, but you need to make an effort with your lifestyle choices. The first step is developing a plan for weight management. Maintaining your weight after surgery will maintain your results. A few different professionals can provide advice and support, such as dietitians, nutritionists, or general physicians. Visiting with an expert is the best way to discover an effective and safe approach to maintaining your ideal body weight. Other helpful tips are:

• Exercise regularly (once cleared to resume your routine)
• Keep a close eye on your diet, making sure you get enough fiber to keep you trim
• Avoid crash or fad diets as the cycle of losing and gaining weight can alter surgical results
• Best to wait on tummy tuck surgery until you are done growing your family

Tummy tuck surgery near me, and finding an experienced surgeon

Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgical specialist Dr. Omar Ahmed has years of experience specializing in liposuction, tummy tuck surgery, and other body contouring procedures. Dr. Ahmed and his dedicated team at Omar Ahmed, M.D. are happy to make you feel more comfortable and discuss any further questions you may have during a private consultation. If you are considering tummy tuck surgery, please contact our office in Pasadena, CA.