| Cosmetic surgery is an increasingly popular | | | | some medications. Smokers will be asked to stop |
| method for people to gain a sense of self they | | | | smoking well in advance of your scheduled |
| couldn't get from exercising and diet alone. A | | | | procedure. |
| tummy tuck is a great way to change your | | | | Your doctor will also give you a list of instructions |
| appearance and gain a greater sense of self. | | | | to follow concerning what to do on the day of |
| So what is a tummy tuck? Also known as | | | | your procedure, what to expect from the |
| abdominoplasty it removes excess fat and skin | | | | anesthesia and surgery. He will also give you a list |
| from the abdominal area. During the procedure | | | | of instructions for post-op care. All of these |
| your doctor may also restore any separated and | | | | instructions should be followed to the letter to |
| or weakened muscles. This will give you a | | | | ensure a smooth operation and recovery. |
| smoother more defined look to your abdominal | | | | You will leave the hospital with bandages and |
| area. | | | | possible wrapped with an elastic band to help hold |
| Selecting the right doctor for your tummy tuck | | | | bandages in place. You may also have a tube |
| procedure is key. You need a doctor that can | | | | located under the skin to help with fluid drainage, |
| give you results but you want to make sure they | | | | all the care instructions will be given to you when |
| are qualified. Check out the doctors in your area | | | | you leave. |
| through the American Association of Plastic | | | | For the first few weeks you won't be able to |
| Surgeons. | | | | stand up fully, as the abdominal area heals from |
| This Association can ensure that you find a highly | | | | the surgery. But after the first couple of weeks, |
| qualified physician in your area. Your physician will | | | | you'll start standing tall and be able to begin to |
| be able to help you reach well set goals. He will | | | | see the results of the procedure. |
| ask questions to ensure that you are a good | | | | Tummy tucks are a great way to recondition the |
| candidate. He will also take measurements and | | | | stomach area. Mainly women who have this |
| photographs for your file. | | | | procedure done have it done because of child |
| When you are preparing for the tummy tuck you | | | | birth or age just taking its toll. You will see a |
| may be asked to get some lab work completed. | | | | whole new you. |
| You may also be asked to take or stop taking | | | | |