As we get older, things just don’t stay in place like they did when we were younger. This is even more true if you have ever given birth. Our bodies just don’t seem as tight and lean as they used to. Many people, both men and women, seeking a flatter, smoother-appearing abdomen, turn to abdominoplasty, or more commonly known, the abdominoplasty. This procedure should not be taken lightly, as it is considered major surgery. The goal of the surgery is to remove excess skin and fat from the mid and lower abdomen, as well as to tighten the muscles of the stomach wall. The desired result is a flatter appearing stomach. We must bear in mind that a tummy tuck will leave permanent scars that in some cases can be quite long.

If you are considering a tummy tuck, here are some things to consider to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. Surgeons believe that the best candidates are both men and women who are already in good shape but cannot get rid of that deposit of fat or loose skin through exercise or diet. If you’ve ever been pregnant or overweight and lost those extra pounds but the skin on your stomach has lost its elasticity, you’re probably a good candidate, too. If you’re considering a tummy tuck, first make sure you’ve lost all the weight you want. There is little benefit to the procedure if you still have weight to lose.

Because a tummy tuck is considered major surgery, there are risks that you should be aware of before making the decision to proceed. First, make sure you use a qualified plastic surgeon who has a great track record. Ask if they have people who would be willing to give you a testimonial. If there are post-operative complications, they are likely to be infections and blood clots. Although they are rare, they still occur and you should be aware of their dangers. It is important to get up and move around after surgery to reduce the risk of blood clots. Having a tummy tuck will leave you swollen and in some discomfort. However, there are pain medications that will help you in the days after surgery.