Stretch Mark Surgery
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Stretch marks are ugly dark marks that occur when the skin has been overstretched. This may happen when there has been fast weight gain such as during pregnancy and weight building. Small scarring that happens in the dermis layer of skin creates these marks, also known as striae. Sometimes marks are light and can be reduced by using topical cream products. However, large, deep or dark marks may require stretch mark removal surgery. Surgical removal is also appropriate when there is excess skin that needs to be removed.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
Abdominoplasty, commonly called a tummy tuck, is stretch mark surgery that addresses the removal of excess skin and stretch marks. This is a permanent solution for an unsightly problem. The first step is to find out if you are a candidate for stretch mark surgery. A consultation with your local surgeon will help to determine if abdominoplasty is right for you. The doctor will review your medical history to ensure that there are no underlying medical conditions that could preclude you from having surgery to remove stretch marks. You’ll also want to check with your insurance company to find out if this type of procedure is covered.
Abdominoplasty Explained
A tummy tuck can help with stretch marks removal by actually pulling the skin taut in the affected areas. The tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that may be done as outpatient surgery or you may need to stay in the hospital overnight. During surgery the doctor will pull the skin areas and remove any excess skin, which will be cut away. Then the skin layers will be attached to create a tight fit. If your stretch marks are located below the belly button you may be able to get a mini tummy tuck which addresses issues under the belly button. This surgery will result in fewer and less noticeable scars. Surgery will typically take several hours to complete.
If you have medical conditions the doctor may not recommend removing stretch marks with surgery. Healthy and otherwise fit individuals may opt to combine this surgery with other medical procedures like liposuction. Your doctor will give you a complete physical prior to the surgery and will make certain that you are a candidate for stretch mark removal before proceeding. The procedure will be explained fully before you make a decision. Many surgeons provide you with videos that explain and show stretch mark surgery procedures. Before surgery the doctor will explain the surgery and recovery procedures that apply in your specific instance.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovering from stretch mark surgery will take a few days to a week and you should be able to return to normal activities in about a month to 6 weeks. Once you remove stretch marks you’ll look and feel younger and more beautiful. This surgery will restore your body to it’s pre-pregnancy look giving you back self-confidence.
