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One of the most important steps prior to committing to any cosmetic procedure is to do your research. The more you know about what to expect, the more prepared you can be, and the higher the likelihood you’ll have a positive experience. While some cosmetic procedures are relatively minor, allowing you to get back to your usual routine right away, the tummy tuck does not fall into that category. A tummy tuck is a major surgery, and there are some things you’ll want to know before you commit. Everyone has different limitations when it comes to cosmetic surgery, so every individual has to answer the question “Is it a tummy tuck worth it?” for themselves. Read on for more information to help you decide if a tummy tuck is worth it for you.
8 Things to Consider Before Getting a Tummy Tuck
- A tummy tuck is not a replacement for weight loss
A tummy tuck involves the surgical removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal area in order to create sexy, curvy contours. It is not a replacement for weight loss and should only be performed on those who are within 10 to 15 pounds of their ideal weight, as fluctuations in either direction can impact the results of your tummy tuck.
- Liposuction may be needed to get the results you want
Although a tummy tuck procedure can involve the removal of some fat, it is not considered a fat-removal procedure. Many people opt to add liposuction to their tummy tuck in order to create the most appealing contours.
- Most insurance plans won’t cover a tummy tuck
A tummy tuck is considered a cosmetic procedure and will likely not be covered by your insurance plan. This is important to know going in because it can be quite costly, depending on the scope of the treatment, medical tests required, the type of anesthesia used, and so on. The cost of a tummy tuck surgery at Feel Beautiful ranges from $10,000 to $12,000. While not everyone has the means to pay this upfront, Dr. Laverson offers special financing, making his procedures accessible and affordable for almost everyone.
- Not all tummy tucks are the same
At Feel Beautiful, we offer a range of different tummy tucks depending on the individual needs of the patient. Some women are seeking minor shaping in the lower belly, while others want to improve the contours of the upper and lower abdomen as well as the flanks and love handles. Dr. Laverson takes each individual’s needs and preferences into consideration prior to creating a treatment plan. In addition to the different types of tummy tucks he offers, Dr. Laverson provides results above and beyond the standard tummy tuck by sculpting the surface contours with his innovative fitness technique.
- You’ll need help at home afterward
As a major surgical procedure, the tummy tuck will hinder your ability to manage everyday tasks for several days. The best way to ensure that you get the rest you need to heal, we recommend creating a post-operative care plan prior to your surgery so that you have the help you need to take care of your family, run errands, and keep you fed and on top of your medication.
- A tummy tuck requires significant downtime
You can expect to be inactive for a week or two following your tummy tuck. If you work outside the home, you will need to plan for two to four weeks off of work, or even longer if your job requires physical activity. You’ll also need to wait at least six weeks before you return to a fitness routine. Dr. Laverson will give you more detailed information about resuming activities after your tummy tuck.
- You may not be bikini ready for several months
Even when you’ve recovered and are able to manage your daily routine comfortably, you may not feel bikini ready for some time. Residual swelling can last as long as six months. That’s why winter is a great time for a tummy tuck—you’ll be ready to show off your results just in time for bikini season.
- The benefits outweigh the discomfort
We’ll be honest: like any major surgery, a tummy tuck does involve some discomfort and inconvenience. But there’s so much more to a tummy tuck than that. Once you’ve healed and recovered, you can expect to:
- Feel sexy in and out of your clothing
- Love your shapely contours
- Experience freedom from the self-conscious need to hide your belly
- Does that make a tummy tuck worth it? Only you can say.
Ready for a shapely, sexy, sculpted belly? Come see Dr. Laverson!
At Feel Beautiful in San Diego, plastic surgeon Dr. Steve Laverson has perfected a number of surgical techniques that make his tummy tuck surgery among the very best available in the country. For more information on the tummy tuck or any of the other cosmetic procedures Dr. Laverson offers, give us a call at (858) 295-4001 to schedule a free consultation today.
