Liposuction is a good option if you have not had any children or major weight changes. Your skin will need to be reasonably tight for the procedure to work.
A mini tummy tuck is also a good option if you do not want have your belly button reconstructed, which must be done for a full tummy tuck.
A fully tummy tuck is the most invasive option for surgically removing belly fat. It requires significant recovery time, which can be painful. It will also leave a scar from hip to hip.
If you have friends or family who have gotten plastic surgery, ask them for a referral for their plastic surgeon.
The surgeon will also tell you the total cost of the procedure. The cost of liposuction can range from $2,000 to $3,500 per treatment. The cost of a tummy tuck can range from $3,000 to $12,000.
The day before the surgery, pack loose, comfortable clothing and get a good night’s sleep. Make sure you arrange for a ride home after the surgery. The day of the surgery, do not eat or drink anything six hours before the surgery time.
A full tummy tuck will take more time, and require more incisions, than liposuction.
Your abdominal muscles will feel sore and you may have bruising around the incisions. There will also be swelling around the area. You may notice the skin around the area seems loose, but it will tighten up within six months of the surgery. If you have complications like a foul smell coming from the incisions, severe abdominal pain, or stomach cramping, go see your doctor right away.
In some cases, you may get a pain pump, which is a small device worn in a hip sack that sends local anesthesia into your stomach muscles.
You should also take showers instead of baths while you recover from the surgery. Try not to get the compression garment wet in the shower. Use a plastic bag to protect it.
They will also ask you about your level of pain and discomfort. They may give you more pain medication or suggest that you try to get up and move around to alleviate the pain. After six months, you will have a scar on your belly from the surgery. This is normal. If you are worried about your scarring, speak to your surgeon.
