Patients often come to see a doctor assuming tummy tucks involve one procedure in Long Island. Doctors often use the same procedure with small adjustments made for each patient. Before you come in for surgery, though, doctors discuss the procedure you need. The tummy tuck describes a group of procedures. For mild sagging caused by age, limited weight loss, or even pregnancy, patients may only need a mini tummy tuck. This procedure requires a shorter recovery time and smaller incisions. Drains are also less common in the early stages of recovery.
If you need more extensive work done, though, a larger incision and longer recovery time are part of the process. Doctors have to remove more skin and adjust the position of the belly button to get the optimal results. Nobody wants to go in more than once for the same procedure. For many patients, finding out that they can undergo a less intensive procedure is welcome news.
Even if you’ve talked to a doctor about tummy tucks before, though, you may not know which is right. The body changes with age, further weight loss, and if you choose to have more kids. Physicians can only account for the way your body is now.
Which Tummy Tucks Are Best for Patients in Long Island?
When you come in to discuss your case with a tummy tuck specialist in Long Island, you may be confused about exactly what to expect and what is possible. There are plenty of myths and misunderstandings surrounding the procedure. The idea that a tummy tuck is one procedure is just the most common one. Some patients also assume a mini tummy tuck can always be used regardless of the patient. Of course, a doctor can take steps to try to accommodate patients’ needs or explain things that may be confusing. All you have to do is ask, and anything can be discussed. What does your physician consider before moving forward?
- The Severity of Sagging: The most obvious measurement doctors consider, the severity of sagging plays a deciding role in which tummy tuck you need. If your belly button has fallen below its normal place, that’s a good sign you will need a full tummy tuck. On the other hand, you might only notice mild sagging and your belly button is still in its natural place. Doctors can then limit surgery to the lower half of the abdomen for a mini tummy tuck.
- Weight: Are you at your ideal weight? If you’ve recently lost a significant amount of weight, physicians consider how close you are to reaching your ideal weight. If you are within a reasonable range, we suggest you lose those last few pounds. This way you get rid of all the excess skin, which also allows us to better assess which tummy tuck you need. For patients who are losing a significant amount of weight, we may recommend a full tummy tuck halfway through. It can remove excess skin, tighten the abdomen, and even make it easier to lose more weight. In these instances, though, be prepared for longer recovery times with a full tummy tuck both times.
- Health: With excessive weight gain, pregnancy, etc., the abdominal muscles and other parts of the body don’t always bounce back. Surgeons deal with a myriad of issues each day. Some patients even notice benefits like a decreased appetite after a tummy tuck. If you have experienced urinary problems, weak abdominal muscles, and other medical problems, though, doctors often combine a tummy tuck with medical treatments as well.
Discuss Your Tummy Tuck with a Specialist in Long Island
If you have noticed even a little extra sagging in your tummy, a tummy tuck specialist in Long Island can discuss your expectations, Then they assess the best path forward. This doesn’t stop at just deciding between a full or mini tummy tuck. Some patients still have to decide if a tummy tuck is the right move.
You can begin your search to find the right doctor online. Before you commit to anything, though, don’t be afraid to meet with a few options. Then you can see who is the best choice for you while getting an idea of what’s realistic. For help with your tummy tuck today, click here and let us help you.
