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Tummy tuck, clinically known as abdominoplasty, is a procedure to remove excess skin and fat. Obtaining a flatter tummy can boost self confidence and better body image. Who would not want a flat and firm tummy? Most women, and many men, would kill for washboard abs.

Be sure to speak to your doctor to make certain that you are the right candidate for undergoing this major surgery. The tummy tuck is ideal for those who have tried diet and exercise and failed. For many cases, these individuals succeed in losing weight and firming other parts of their bodies. But excess fat around the tummy area does not go away. If you succeeded in sticking to a low fat diet and exercising regularly to tone up your body but cannot get rid of the hanging loose fat in your abdominal area, you may the right candidate.

Many women find it difficult to get their old bodies back after giving birth. They are left with stretch marks and excess fat, often times around their abdomen. Many of the people that undergo this surgery are women who have given birth. They may manage to tone back up other parts of their bodies, but that loose skin hanging around their bellies may still linger around.

When diet and exercise are not enough, that is when a tummy tuck should be considered. There are people that can obtain a flat and firm stomach through regular workout routines and sticking to a low fat diet. These are candidates that should not undergo the procedure since there are other less costly and less risky alternatives. Likely candidates are mothers and people that have lost a tremendous amount of weight. They are the ones that are most likely to have permanent stretch marks and excess skin that cannot be removed except with surgery.

Abdominoplasty is usually conducted by using anesthesia. The entire procedure takes approximately two to five hours. An incision is made across the lower part of the abdomen, horizontally. The doctor will position and tighten the muscles, removing the excess skin.

Following the procedure, depending on the individual, many will normally need around two to four weeks to recover. Returning to the usual schedule may not be recommended right away. Like with other surgical procedures, you should avoid alcohol, smoking, or strenuous activity. Be prepared to experience discomfort for a while. Your doctor should also prescribe medication for the pain, along with antibiotics. Most people can go back to regular exercise routines after six to eight weeks.

Like with most surgical procedures, scars will remain. During the first few months following the procedure, the scars may appear to be more noticeable. With time, the scarring will fade. But do not expect it to completely disappear. Some or little scarring will remain. Talk to your doctor about any ointments that can be used to fade the scar.

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