When Is The Best Time To Get Tummy Tuck Surgery?
When it comes to preparing for any cosmetic surgery, including a tummy tuck, there are a number of important factors to consider. From lining up help with the children to scheduling time off work, patients have a long list of to-dos leading up to surgery. Before that, however, patients must decide when to schedule their procedure. Use this helpful information from Dr. Alex Mesbahi and the expert team at Mesbahi Plastic Surgery in McLean, VA on what to consider when choosing the best time for your tummy tuck surgery.
What does a tummy tuck do?
Most of us know that tummy tuck surgery can dramatically transform a person’s figure, but you may have questions about what exactly a tummy tuck involves. Formally known as abdominoplasty, the tummy tuck is a widely popular procedure that aims to slim and sculpt a patient’s midsection through skin removal, fat reduction with liposuction, skin tightening, and other techniques. For many Washington, D.C. area men and women, tummy tuck surgery offers an opportunity to reverse the unwanted side effects of extreme weight loss, while women who have had children often undergo abdominoplasty to restore their pre-baby bodies. Some of the most common concerns that can be addressed with tummy tuck surgery include:
- Loose skin after weight loss
- Hanging abdominal skin
- Stretch marks
- Stubborn fat
- Mommy pooch
- Diastasis recti
When should I schedule my tummy tuck?
The right time for tummy tuck surgery varies from patient to patient and is especially dependent on the following personal factors:
- Overall health
- Weight stability
- Plans to have more children
- Job responsibilities
- Personal responsibilities
- Available time off of work
During your consultation for tummy tuck in McLean, VA, Dr. Mesbahi will thoroughly discuss all of these factors in order to determine the most appropriate time to schedule your procedure. Oftentimes, patients choose to have surgery over the summer or around the holidays when they have time off work, and their spouse or family members will be available to help them during recovery. Generally speaking, women are encouraged to defer their tummy tuck until after they have finished having children. Patients should also commit to maintaining a healthy, stable weight after tummy tuck surgery. Significant weight fluctuation, including that associated with pregnancy, can compromise the results of a tummy tuck and lead to the need for a second or subsequent revision procedure.
No matter when you decide to schedule your procedure, it is important to keep in mind that tummy tuck recovery can take several weeks or even months, during which time you will likely need help around the house and with the children. Strenuous physical activity will also be restricted for several weeks or months. While full tummy tuck recovery may take up to 3 – 6 months, patients are typically able to return to light work and other daily routines after about 2 – 3 weeks.
When it comes to tummy tuck in McLean, VA, timing is everything
With careful planning and proper timing, the results of your tummy tuck can be life-changing and long-lasting. To learn more about the incredible transformations that are possible with abdominoplasty in McLean, VA, call Mesbahi Plastic Surgery to schedule your private consultation with award-winning board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alex Mesbahi today!