If you’re dreaming of a tighter, smoother tummy, a tummy tuck might be exactly what you need. But before your consultation, it helps to know what qualifies patients for the procedure. The best outcomes start with the right patient and the right preparation.
At his Chicago, IL plastic and general surgery practice, board-certified surgeon Dr. Gregory Dumanian brings more than 30 years of surgical experience to every procedure. Unique among many doctors who perform tummy tucks, Dr. Dumanian is a world-renowned abdominal wall surgery specialist. He created a mesh suture designed to achieve a lasting strong repair of the stomach muscles. He addresses both loose skin and underlying muscles to streamline and contour the tummy.
Wondering if you could be a good candidate? Here’s what you should know.
What Makes Someone a Good Candidate
Patients who want a tummy tuck usually mention wanting a flatter belly as their number one goal with a tummy tuck. However, being a good candidate involves more than just that desire.
It’s about being physically and mentally prepared for what the procedure requires. Key factors that Dr. Dumanian considers for tummy tuck are:
- Weight: Ideal candidates are at their ideal weight (or close) and have maintained it over time.
- Loose Skin: A tummy tuck removes loose skin. Dr. Dumanian may also perform liposuction for fat removal and contouring, but the central focus of a tummy tuck is eliminating loose skin and tightening muscles beneath it. If you have abdominal muscle separation (rectus diastasis,) Dr. Dumanian repairs it during the procedure. If you have extra belly fat but no loose skin or abdominal muscle weakness, liposuction could be the right option for you instead of a tummy tuck.
- General Health: Tummy tuck is an elective surgery. Patients must have good general health and good management of chronic conditions before considering the procedure. If you smoke, you must quit before surgery.
- Family Plans: Tummy tuck is best suited for women who don’t plan future pregnancies. Pregnancy can undo the results, even if you return to your pre-pregnancy weight afterward, so it’s best to wait until your family is complete.
If one or more of these qualifiers doesn’t match your situation, that doesn’t necessarily mean a tummy tuck is out for you. But, it does mean you may need to make some changes to improve your candidacy and thus, your expected results.
Dr. Dumanian performs a comprehensive health evaluation as part of the pre-op process. Your consultation is the ideal chance to ask questions and develop a better understanding of how a tummy tuck can benefit you.
Ready to Consider a Tummy Tuck?
If you’re ready to talk tummy tucks with Dr. Dumanian, call our Chicago office at 312-695-6022 to schedule your consultation.