Tummy tuck surgery is a trusted procedure for getting rid of excess skin and fat, and could be your best option depending on your situation, preference, and desired outcome. We also offer non-surgical procedures, like state-of-the-art Coolsculpting.
If you are deciding to undertake belly fat removal surgery, this is exactly what to expect.
What is tummy tuck surgery?
It’s important to begin by noting that tummy tuck surgery is not an alternative to weight loss, and should only be pursued after failing to achieve results through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. It is, first and foremost, a contouring procedure.
Also known as an abdominoplasty, tummy tuck surgery removes excess fat around the abdomen, including sagging skin and stretch marks. The unwanted skin and fat cells are removed in a surgical procedure under general anesthesia and generally lasts around 2-5 hours.
At Chelsea Cosmetics, we offer full tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck procedures for both men and women. Full tummy tuck belly fat removal targets both above and below the belly button, while a mini tummy tuck procedure that only targets the lower abdominal region.
As expected, mini tummy tucks are a smaller, less invasive procedure, ideal for minor amounts of loose skin and fatty tissue. However, generally, greater results are achieved with a full tummy tuck.
What is Coolsculpting?
Coolsculpting, or fat freezing, is a non-invasive and non-surgical procedure that has a proven track record for sculpting the body and minimising unwanted fat.
Unlike tummy tuck surgery, Coolsculpting may require multiple treatments for the best results, and is more effective at eliminating superficial fat as it does not target the underlying issues addressed by surgery. However, the TGA-approved procedure is comfortable, downtime is minimal, and results are usually evident in just a few weeks.
What makes a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery is optimal for individuals who have experienced a rapid and significant loss of weight, resulting in excess skin that is near impossible to shed.
Anyone who has undergone extreme weight loss is likely to see the best results from tummy tuck surgery.
The procedure is also provided to women post-birth who have still excess skin laxity, stretch marks, and weak abdominal muscles after a year or more.
What do you need to consider before tummy tuck surgery?
Any belly fat removal procedure, surgical or non-surgical, should be given utmost consideration, and patients should be well-informed before proceeding.
The size and location may vary, but tummy tuck surgery results in scarring on the right, left or bilateral upper abdominal region. Patients with a history of severe heart disease, diabetics, DCT and pulmonary embolism will need to consult a professional as this may impact eligibility.
Similarly, women who are planning future pregnancies or anyone suffering from morbid obesity should consider that the contours achieved after surgery will only be temporary.
Any smokers will need to quit at least one month prior to surgery to avoid any risk of complications due to decreased blood flow.
Finally, as with everything, it is important to manage expectations and be realistic about the results.
What does the tummy tuck procedure involve?
For both full tummy tuck and mini tummy tuck procedures, the first step is making a horizontal incision above the pubic region. This incision will be made as low as possible to keep it discreet and below a regular bikini line. The surgeons at Chelsea Cosmetics use a modern incision technique that results in a much smaller opening than in traditional surgeries.
If necessary, the abdominal muscles are then tightened with special stitches, before excess skin is trimmed away for the desired contoured appearance. Sometimes, the belly button needs to be repositioned – this is done with the utmost care to match the original navel position.
What results can I expect?
These are previous results of our patients who have successfully undergone tummy tuck surgery.
As you can see, for eligible candidates the procedure removes excess skin and fat, minimises stretch marks and results in a tighter, flatter abdominal region.
What are the next steps after tummy tuck surgery?
After surgery, movement will be limited for roughly a week, including standing upright. Strenuous exercise, such as running, biking, and weightlifting, should be ideally limited for about a month to avoid putting undue strain on incisions.
Abdominal workouts can usually be resumed after six weeks, but it is important to listen to your body.
What costs are involved in tummy tuck surgery?
Designed to be a permanent solution, the final cost of your belly fat removal surgery may vary, depending on the severity of the case.
The team at Chelsea Cosmetics are highly qualified to perform all manner of cosmetic enhancement procedures, including belly fat removal, with over 20 years of experience in providing successful tummy tuck surgery.
From the initial consultation to recovery time, we’ll be on hand to guide you through the process and answer any queries or concerns you may have.
