GLOW Blog

When you think of certain cosmetic procedures, does an “ideal age” come to mind? Many people have been led to believe the misconception that only younger people can have plastic surgery, when this is not at all the case.

A tummy tuck is one great example of this fallacy. People of many different ages can enjoy the remarkable benefits of tummy tuck surgery. In fact, people well into their 60s and 70s often find they are thrilled that they decided to get a tummy tuck - and still enjoy the effects as much as a younger person would.

New moms often wonder whether or not it’s safe to get a tummy tuck after a c-section. While the six- to twelve-month period following a c-section is not the ideal time for more abdominal surgery, it can definitely be considered after this period of time has passed.

After you’ve been through pregnancy and childbirth, it can feel like your body just isn’t the same. The skin and muscles of the belly have been stretched, and most women expect that. But beyond that, you may have sagging, smaller breasts, and excess fat in places that weren’t a problem before, such as the belly, hips, and thighs.

The following is an excerpt from our new e-book, A patient’s guide to tummy tuck surgery.

When should you talk to a cosmetic surgeon?

If you’re thinking about getting a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with a cosmetic surgeon. You should expect a free, no-pressure conversation to weigh the pros and cons of this surgery. Just having a consultation does not bind you to having the surgery, and you shouldn’t feel that you have to make a decision right away.

The following is an excerpt from our new e-book, A patient’s guide to tummy tuck surgery.

“Mini” tummy tucks and liposuction

When you’re thinking about a tummy tuck, you probably want to know how it will fit into your life and if you will be able to get back to the things you enjoy as quickly as possible. Tummy tucks can be performed using different methods, but a GLOW tummy tuck involves the use of local anesthetic to get you back on your feet sooner and to avoid some of the common complications of general anesthesia. Your surgeon will also make the smallest incision possible to give you the desired result.

The following is an excerpt from our new e-book, A patient’s guide to tummy tuck surgery.

How long will the results last?

Results from your tummy tuck can last years with the right care. As mentioned above, keeping your weight stable and taking good care of yourself will maximize your results. A lifestyle that includes eating healthy foods and getting regular physical activity will maximize your beauty — on your tummy and everywhere else! The more you take care of yourself and are able to keep your weight stable, the longer your results will last.

Any patient who is considering cosmetic surgery is hoping for the best possible results. Patients want to improve their appearance and have a good experience, both before, during, and after the procedure. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to ensure your surgery goes smoothly and that you get a positive outcome.

The following is an excerpt from our new e-book, A patient’s guide to tummy tuck surgery.

Is a tummy tuck right for me?

Tummy tuck surgery can produce beautiful results for bodies of many shapes and sizes. You don’t have to be at a perfect weight to see a significant improvement in your appearance, but you should be at a somewhat stable weight to optimize your results. Gaining or losing a lot of weight after your tummy tuck may undo some of the procedure’s benefits.

The following is an excerpt from our new e-book, A patient’s guide to tummy tuck surgery.

What are the risks of a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery is generally very safe when it’s performed by a qualified surgeon. However, any surgical procedure has risks that should be discussed with your surgeon before you make your decision. Some of the possible complications may include infection, bleeding, fluid retention, poor healing of the incision, pain, and scarring.

The following is an excerpt from our new e-book, A patient’s guide to tummy tuck surgery.

Getting back to daily life

The time it takes to get back to your daily activities will vary depending on your age and personal lifestyle. You will need to plan on taking about one to two weeks off work, and possibly more if you have a strenuous job that requires a lot of activity or lifting. In general, if you’ve had muscle tightening done during your tummy tuck, you may need about four weeks of restricted activity to give your body time to heal (but you may drive and do light activity if your surgeon gives you the okay).