The Abdominoplasty, which is perhaps more well-known by its nickname the tummy tuck lift , is an elective, cosmetic surgery. This surgical procedure gets rid of unwanted skin and fat from your belly area and tightens the muscles and skin left behind. Women who have had children and those who have had a tremendous weight loss success opt to have this surgery because they have stretched or loose skin that no amount of working out can eliminate.

To be considered a candidate for a tummy tuck lift, you need to be healthy and in relatively good shape. If you’re a woman considering becoming pregnant later on, it’s recommended that you wait until after your pregnancy before getting a tummy tuck. The risk of tightened vertical muscles breaking while pregnant is far too great.

As with any surgery, there is always some risk involved. A great many flawless abdominoplasties are completed with each passing year. The tummy tuck lift performed by qualified plastic surgeons experienced with body contouring specifically, is by and large the one with the most positive outcome. Still, there is the risk for developing a post-surgical blood clot. Light activity immediately post procedure can help to reduce such a risk. Of course, the risk for infection also exists and could compel your surgeon to prescribe antibiotics or to insert a temporary drainage tube, and add to the time you’ll need to heal.

A complete tummy tuck lift takes between two to five hours. The surgeon makes a long cut from one hip bone to the other. A second cut then removes the navel from the tissue around it. The doctor pulls the skin away from the abdominal wall up to the patient’s rib area to reveal the vertical muscles. The surgeon tightens the muscles by pulling and sewing them into a new position. Doing so narrows the waistline and firms up the abdominal wall. The flap of skin is then pulled and put back into place. Any extra skin remaining is then removed. A hole for the new navel is cut and fastened with stitches. Finally, the area is bandaged and a short-term drainage tube might be inserted as well.

A tummy tuck lift can reduce your body image problems and increase your self-esteem but may not be exactly what you expected. Make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into and know the risks before you go under the knife.