REPORT #1707
"Well, you’ll see the results immediately. Actually, the first post-operative visit she'll notice a significant increase in tone and tightness of her abdominals. But usually I tell patients to wait three to six months for the final result."
Carolyn Chang, MD
Plastic Surgeon
TUMMY TUCKS
BACK GROUND: A tummy tuck procedure, also known as an abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin from the abdominal area and in some cases restores weakened or separated muscles. It's designed to flatten and firm stubborn excess belly fat. Before considering a tummy tuck, women should first aim to achieve weight loss and fitness goals through diet and exercise. However, if these methods aren’t enough to achieve the desired goal, a tummy tuck can be an affective alternative.
Even individuals who are in good physical shape can develop excess fat or sagging around the midsection for reasons such as:
· Pregnancy
· Aging
· Significant fluctuations in weight
· Heredity
· Prior surgery
DISCLAIMER: A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss and exercise programs. Although the results of a tummy tuck are technically permanent, the positive outcome can be altered by significant fluctuations in a woman's weight. For this reason, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies are advised to postpone a tummy tuck until after these events that can cause weight fluctuation. Also, a tummy tuck cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be removed or somewhat improved if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be removed.
Good candidates for a tummy tuck include women who are:
· Physically health and at a stable weight
· Willing to accept realistic expectations
· Non-smokers
· Bothered by the look or size of their tummy region
SMART WOMAN CONTACT:
Carolyn Chang, M.D.
2100 Webster Street, Suite 506
San Francisco, CA 94115
(415) 923-3067
