An abdominoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that can help tone, tighten, and reshape your abdomen and strengthen your core. It is especially popular among those who have recently lost a significant amount of weight and struggle with excess skin around their middle and moms who are finished having children and would like to address the effect pregnancy had on their body – specifically, their stomach. In addition, if you want to feel more confident and less self-conscious about your midsection, an abdominoplasty may be the perfect procedure for you.
Before undergoing a tummy tuck with Dr. Bryan Armijo in Dallas, TX, many patients ask about timing. In this blog, we’ll discuss how abdominoplasty can improve your figure and how far in advance you should plan your surgery, so you’re ready for bikini season.
What Are the Benefits of an Abdominoplasty?
An abdominoplasty is a popular cosmetic procedure for removing loose or hanging skin around the abdomen. It can also repair the underlying abdominal muscles to create a flatter appearance. Many women opt to include this procedure in a mommy makeover, as it helps address common bodily changes that come with pregnancy and childbirth.
An abdominoplasty is an invasive surgery. It requires an incision that goes from hip to hip, just above the pubic area. If you’re worried about scarring, don’t be. Dr. Armijo strategically places the incision in an area where you can easily hide it with underwear and bikini bottoms. After your procedure, Dr. Armijo will also provide you with detailed incision care instructions, so the resulting scar is as thin and flat as possible.
How Long Is the Healing Process From an Abdominoplasty?
Dr. Armijo offers two types of abdominoplasty techniques – full and mini. A mini tummy tuck only addresses the area below the navel, resulting in a less intensive surgery with a shorter healing period. Recovery can last three to six weeks for patients undergoing a full tummy tuck. In both cases, patients must avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for six weeks after their procedure.
When to Plan Your Abdominoplasty
Dr. Armijo may recommend a specific timeline for tummy tuck recovery based on the extent of your excess skin removal and underlying muscle tightening. Generally, it’s best to wait at least two months before going swimming. So, if you’re planning a tropical vacation or want to show off your stomach in a cute new bathing suit, it’s best to schedule your abdominoplasty for the early spring.
What About the Scar?
While there is no way to avoid surgical scars after a procedure, you can take steps to minimize them. Dr. Armijo will do his part to place the incision low enough on your abdomen that you can conceal it with your clothes.
The scar will be pink and slightly raised for the first few weeks after your incision has healed. To keep it from becoming darker or irritated in any way, always keep it covered and wear sunscreen. You can also apply lotion daily to keep your skin healthy or talk to Dr. Armijo about treatments to help improve the appearance of scars, like laser skin resurfacing.
Enjoy a Flatter Stomach This Swimsuit Season
If you’re considering a tummy tuck surgery in Dallas, timing is crucial, so you don’t have to stress about missing out on swimsuit season or planning that family vacation. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Armijo can provide more information and helpful tips when you come in for a private consultation. Call (214) 540-1434 or fill out our contact form to get the process started today!