Santa Cruz Tummy Tuck

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Tummy Tuck Santa Cruz, CA

If you’re having trouble losing excess fat and skin off your stomach, you may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck in Santa Cruz, CA. At Kirk A. Churukian, MD, FACS, the surgical procedure can drastically improve the appearance and shape of your stomach, boosting your self-confidence. Here are a few ways to prepare for a tummy tuck surgery.

Table Of Contents

Get Down To A Healthy Weight
Avoid Eating Or Drinking Right Before Your Surgery
Call Us About Questions Or Concerns
What Is A Full Tummy Tuck Infographic
Tummy Tuck Recovery
Santa Cruz Tummy Tuck Statistics
Getting Back To Normal
Dr. Kirk A. Churukian, Santa Cruz Tummy Tuck

Get Down to a Healthy Weight

A tummy tuck isn’t a weight loss surgery. It’s intended for people who are at or near their goal weight. If you’re currently overweight, your plastic surgeon will advise you to get down to a healthy weight and maintain it for several months before your tummy tuck. If you wait to lose weight until after your procedure, you risk having loose skin and other complications.

Avoid Smoking

If you’re a smoker, you will want to stop at least six weeks before your tummy tuck. The nicotine in cigarettes can hinder blood flow, which can delay the process.

Choose a Reputable Plastic Surgeon

To ensure great results, it’s important to select the right plastic surgeon. Make sure that your plastic surgeon is board certified and specializes in performing tummy tucks. Read reviews online and look at photos of the surgeon’s previous work.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

What you eat prior to your tummy tuck procedure matters greatly. Consuming a nutritious diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals can assist with your recovery. Vitamin-C rich foods, like oranges and pineapple, in particular, can speed up the healing process. Try to avoid processed and overly salty foods before your tummy tuck in Santa Cruz, CA.

Stop Taking Certain Medications

Prior to your procedure, your surgeon will discuss all the medications you’ll need to avoid taking. Medicines like ibuprofen and Advil, for example, can increase bleeding, so don’t take them before your surgery.

Prepare Several Meals

After your tummy tuck procedure, you may experience soreness and fatigue for at least several days. The last thing you’ll probably want to do is cook. That’s why it’s a good idea to prepare several nutritious meals ahead of time.

Avoid Eating or Drinking Right Before Your Surgery

Like with other surgeries, you shouldn’t eat or drink anything for at least 12 hours before your tummy tuck. If you eat right before your surgery, you could experience anesthesia complications.

Perform Chores Beforehand

Just as with any other kind of procedure, you will need to plan ahead of time and take care of any chores that you would usually have to do. Take care of necessary household chores, including cleaning, meal preps, and other tasks that require physical energy. Avoid performing chores and lifting objects until your tummy tuck Santa Cruz CA residents trust from Kirk A. Churukian, MD, FACS has confirmed you are recovered enough to do so. If you have a friend or family member helping during your recovery, this is less of a concern. But all in all, many patients find that going back home to a clean house without having to worry about daily tasks is calming after a tummy tuck.

Lean On Family and Friends

Mental health and physical health are both important when it comes to getting a surgery done and changing your appearance. You may want to take some quiet time to journal or meditate, and create soothing environments for yourself. Reach out to people you trust and express your worries so that they can provide you with extra emotional support. Knowing that you have people around you that support you can give you more strength going into the procedure. As a Santa Cruz tummy tuck team member may encourage, don’t forget that your closest loved ones can be helpful during this time, and want to be there for you.

Prepare Your Recovery Area

Set a designated place for you to recover that suits your temporary limitations. After a tummy tuck, the last thing you will want to do is to perform more movements than you need to. Use a semi-flexed place to rest and sleep, such as a couch, recliner chair, loveseat, or bed with pillows strategically set to support your body. Arrange your medications within immediate reach, and gather more than enough entertainment opportunities for yourself. You will be spending at least a few days in the recovery area, so have access to entertainment, such as shows, movies, audiobooks, magazines, physical books, and other things you enjoy. Postoperative healing is easier when you have things to keep your mind entertained.

Call Us About Questions or Concerns

We understand that you may have pre-surgery jitters, that’s a completely normal feeling. If you have questions or serious concerns about the procedure then you must contact us right away. We are always happy to provide patients with the information and clarity they need to feel comfortable walking into their appointment. Our team is knowledgeable and empathetic, and we can imagine you may be nervous. Write down your questions, concerns, or if anything that is still unclear about what is to come so that our Santa Cruz tuck tummy team can get you properly prepared.

If you have yet to schedule an appointment, and wonder if a tummy tuck is right for you, then please reach out to us. We are here as a resource in helping you achieve your physical goals and ultimately feeling more confident about yourself. If you are interested in getting a tummy tuck in Santa Cruz, CA, schedule a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon from Kirk A. Churukian, MD, FACS today.

What is the difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction?

If your issue is with having loose skin in the lower abdomen area, then a tummy tuck Santa Cruz, CA patients recommend would likely be the most beneficial procedure for you. A liposuction procedure is more appropriate for patients who have good skin tone but are having a hard time getting rid of belly fat.

How long do I have to wait after a tummy tuck procedure to get pregnant?

For the best tummy tuck results, it is strongly advised that all patients wait until they are done having children before having the surgery done. If a patient gets pregnant after having a tummy tuck, the weight gain and stretching that naturally occurs with a healthy pregnancy could compromise the results of the tummy tuck.

What is a full tummy tuck?

A full Santa Cruz tummy tuck is a great choice for both women and men who have that excess skin in their midsection and want to get rid of it. In a full tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon makes the incision from hipbone to hipbone. This allows better access to the patient’s internal areas. The surgeon will then use liposuction to remove the belly. When that is completed, he or she will then take the muscles of the abdomen and pull and tightly secure them. And to ensure natural placement, the navel is typically repositioned.

What is a mini tummy tuck?

Not every patient will require a full tummy tuck in Santa Cruz. Some patients are in good shape, and still have fairly tight abdominal muscles, but just want a flatter stomach. These are the types of situations where a mini tummy tuck is most beneficial. In this procedure – also referred to as a Brazilian tummy tuck – the surgeon will make an incision along the lower abdomen in order to gain access to the fat removal via liposuction. The navel is not affected by this procedure so no repositioning is necessary. Once complete, the skin is pulled tight.

What is an extended tummy tuck?

When a person has had a major weight loss, there is often an excessive amount of loose skin. While an extended tummy tuck targets the abdomen area, it also targets the fat and skin in the “love handle” areas and the lower back. In some cases, the procedure may even include excess skin on the lateral thigh.

There is a much longer incision with this procedure, going from the low pelvis to the lower back and a second around the naval. The surgeon will use liposuction to remove all the excess fat, trim away excess skin, and follow all of that with tightening of the skin. The navel is repositioned in this surgery.

WHAT IS A FULL TUMMY TUCK INFOGRAPHIC

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Once you have had your Santa Cruz, CA tummy tuck, it is critical to follow your surgeon’s instructions in order to ensure proper and safe healing and recovery. Never hesitate to call our office with any questions or concerns you may be having.

The following are some of the things you should keep in mind, however, your doctor will have more specific instructions following your own procedure.

Immediately Following Surgery

When you awaken from your surgery, the abdomen area will be fully covered in surgical dressing to keep it clean and free from contamination. You may also have small, thin tubes that have been placed around the area of the incision. These tubes are draining any fluids that may build up. For the first few days following your procedure, you will need to get plenty of rest, but that rest should be at an angle. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on dos and don’ts when it comes to moving around and other activities, as well as steps to take to prevent blood clots.

Once You Are Home

When you leave the hospital, you will need someone to come get you since you will not be allowed to drive. Remember, not only have you had surgery and your mobility is seriously limited, but you will also likely be on some form of pain medication that would make it dangerous to operate a vehicle.

This limited mobility will make it difficult to do even the simplest of tasks. You should avoid standing for any length of time, bending, and lifting. You may even find you have a difficult time getting up from a chair because of the incision. This is why it is important to have someone at home with you during your first couple of days of recovery.

Care of Your Incision

As mentioned above, your surgeon will provide specific instructions for you to follow when it comes to the draining of tubes and taking care of the incision, but generally, you will likely have some type of abdominal support garment or wrap that you should keep on. This garment will help with the discomfort and with keeping down any swelling so make sure to wear it for the number of hours each day your Santa Cruz tummy tuck doctor instructs you to.

Your doctor will also likely give you antibiotics to fight off any potential infections, as well as anticoagulation medication to help prevent blood clots. Most patients are also given topical creams for incision site application.

And as with any surgery, patients should refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking since both of these things will hamper their recovery and could even cause serious complications.

Santa Cruz Tummy Tuck Statistics

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there are an estimated 94,248 tummy tucks performed each year in the United States. This statistic shows the popularity of tummy tucks as a cosmetic surgery procedure. Tummy tucks are performed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and to tighten the underlying muscles. They can be a very effective way to improve the appearance of the abdomen and can give patients a more youthful and toned look.

Getting Back to Normal

It will take time for your incision to heal so even as you find yourself feeling better, you still need to take care to avoid certain activities for a bit. Avoid lifting heavy objects for the first few weeks – including children. Once your surgeon gives you the okay, you can usually begin resuming other activities – cooking, driving, shopping, etc. – about two weeks later.

Can I resume my usual activities post-surgery?

As your tummy tuck Santa Cruz CA residents trust at Kirk A. Churukian, MD, FACS can explain, one of the main questions patients have after their tummy tuck procedure is how soon they can go back to their usual activities. The answer to this will vary and your doctor will discuss this with you on an individual basis. Exercise can be an important part of a tummy tuck recovery. When combined with good eating, it can ultimately maximize the results you experience. If you feel like you are ready to start engaging in exercise or activities with moderate movement, confirm with your doctor that this is okay before doing so.

What should I wear on my tummy for the first week or two after?

As your Santa Cruz tummy tuck surgeon may suggest, you can wear a compression garment for up to six weeks post-surgery, as it amplifies the tummy tuck results and helps to reduce swelling. During the first couple weeks, you can go for a walk as long as it is a short distance and you maintain a flexed abdomen. By using a flexed posture when walking, your abdominal muscles and the fascia will be protected from getting pulled. You may be able to get back to work once the initial two-week recovery period has ended, permitting that your job is not demanding physically.

How will I know it’s safe to drive after my tummy tuck?

After surgery, your doctor will recommend not operating a vehicle until you are further healed. There are serious safety reasons for not driving after your surgery. The same day as the procedure, you will be unable to drive due to effects of the anesthesia, which can cause fatigue and confusion. As you recover over the few weeks, your doctor can track your healing and suggest when it is okay to start driving again. Surgery can cause exhaustion on the body and mind, so you should have someone else take you home after surgery, and ask a friend or family member to stay with you for a few days.

When will it be safe to have physical intimacy?

A procedure on the tummy will entail stitching together the muscles of the abdomen so that they look toned and firm. It is best to avoid having sexual intimacy shortly after your surgery, to allow the incisions to close fully and the abdomen to heal completely before putting stress onto that area. Regardless of the position, sexual activity applies tension on the abdomen area that will still be tender and needs to rest. There are a couple factors that will be used to assess when you can have physical intimacy again, and those are the extent of the procedure you received and how quickly that patient’s body tends to heal as an individual.

Is there anyone else I should know about tummy tuck aftercare?

Be patient with yourself and your body. You already underwent a surgical procedure, and likely because you wanted to see your body change in a certain way. You will have great days, and other days you may wonder if your goals are actually achievable. Your Santa Cruz tummy tuck doctor can talk with you about realistic expectations to have while you are still in recovery. Taking it easy on both your body and mind can make all the difference in how fast you recover and what your end results look like.

A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a popular cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at achieving a flatter and more toned abdominal area. If you’re considering a tummy tuck in Santa Cruz, CA, there are several important aspects to understand before making your decision:

1. Types of Tummy Tucks:

Tummy tucks come in various types, each catering to different needs. A “full” tummy tuck addresses both the upper and lower abdomen, while a “mini” tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen only. Your surgeon will recommend the most suitable type based on your individual goals and body.

2. Candidacy and Goals:

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck are individuals who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, often as a result of pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. It’s important to have realistic goals for the procedure. A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or a complete lifestyle change.

3. Consultation:

Schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon in Santa Cruz, CA. During this appointment, you will discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns. The surgeon will evaluate your candidacy, explain the procedure, and outline potential risks and benefits.

4. Surgical Process:

A tummy tuck generally involves making an incision along the lower abdomen, removing excess skin and fat, and potentially tightening the underlying muscles. The remaining skin is then repositioned for a smoother and more contoured appearance. The surgical techniques used may vary based on the specific type of tummy tuck chosen.

5. Recovery and Downtime:

Recovery time varies, but you can expect a few weeks of limited physical activity and restrictions on heavy lifting. Swelling and bruising are common initially, but they will gradually subside. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions to facilitate a smooth healing process.

6. Scarring:

Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure. The incision scar from a tummy tuck is usually located along the bikini line and can often be concealed by underwear or swimwear. Over time, scars tend to fade but might never completely disappear.

7. Realistic Expectations:

While a tummy tuck can produce remarkable results, it’s important to have realistic expectations. Your surgeon will provide a clear understanding of the potential outcomes and limitations of the procedure during your consultation.

8. Risks and Complications:

Like any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck carries risks, including infection, bleeding, scarring, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. Choosing a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon in Santa Cruz, CA, can help minimize these risks.

9. Lifestyle After Surgery:

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle after a tummy tuck is essential to preserving your results. Continued exercise, proper nutrition, and avoiding significant weight fluctuations can help you enjoy the benefits of the surgery for years to come.

10. Surgeon Selection:

Selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in tummy tuck procedures is crucial for achieving safe and satisfying results. Look for patient reviews, before-and-after photos, and a strong reputation within the Santa Cruz, CA, community.

Before undergoing a tummy tuck in Santa Cruz, CA, it’s recommended that you thoroughly research the procedure, consult with a reputable plastic surgeon, and carefully consider your motivations and expectations. With the right information and guidance, a tummy tuck can be a transformative step towards achieving your desired abdominal appearance.