Time, weight gain or loss, and pregnancy may all take their toll on the midsection. For many people, a tummy tuck procedure helps fix this. If you consider getting one, you may wonder, “What are the benefits of a tummy tuck ?”
What Happens During a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is more formally known as “abdominoplasty. ” During this surgical procedure, your plastic surgeon removes excess fat and skin from your “belly” and waist area. The surgeon also tightens connective tissue, repairs separated abdominal muscles, and re-drapes the skin. The result is more sculpted, slimmer-looking waistline and belly with tighter-looking skin.
This article isn’t a substitute for a consultation with one of our skilled plastic surgeons. It is a helpful starting point as you consider whether you want to opt for a tummy tuck. You can probably imagine the benefits from that description, but let’s explore a few in more detail.
Medical Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons identified several medical benefits of a tummy tuck. This is a good starting point since most people think of it as purely aesthetic. These benefits include:
- A tummy tuck can actually help resolve Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) which is often an after-effect of childbirth.
- If you have a ventral hernia, a tummy tuck can be used to help correct it.
- Back pain from posture issues or muscle weakness often improves after a tummy tuck since the abdominal muscles are tightened.
In addition, a tummy tuck can help with diastasis rectus repair, whether after pregnancy or another cause. In some mild cases, the issue resolves on its own, but sometimes the separation is too great only surgery fixes it.
People who have lost significant weight often end up with a lot of excess loose skin. In some cases, the issue is more than purely aesthetic. Excess skin may get caught, be hard to clean, rub uncomfortably against clothing, and cause pain or discomfort. The issue is also aesthetic since it hides all that hard work that went into losing weight. A tummy tuck can easily get rid of loose skin, making it possible to wear whatever you want, be active and comfortable.
Better posture, less back pain, and resolving any of these painful conditions all make the possibility of a tummy tuck attractive to many people. However, if you are like most people considering one, you may be thinking specifically about the aesthetic benefits.
Aesthetic Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck addresses several aesthetic issues that make some people feel self-conscious, including:
- Loose or saggy skin around the midriff.
- A poochy or bulging look in the lower abs, below the belly.
- Unusual or aesthetically concerning distributions of pockets of fat.
- Lax muscle tone and separated muscles.
Other Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
Whether you want a tummy tuck for medical or aesthetic reasons (or both!), additional intangible benefits are worth considering. Some people feel very self-conscious if they don’t like how a specific area of their body looks. This can damage self-confidence and get in the way of enjoying life. If someone feels self-conscious enough not to wear swimwear, work out in a gym, engage in outdoor recreation, take on visible roles at work, or even socialize, they live a limited life.
Sometimes cosmetically improving that part of the body restores confidence and makes the person feel less inhibited about being visible and active. These benefits are priceless to so many people.
Sometimes a tummy tuck marks the completion of a very significant milestone, such as expanding a family or losing weight. It may be part of a “mommy makeover” or part of a broader treatment plan. It’s important to know the difference between a mommy makeover vs tummy tuck. It marks a turning point where someone can return to wearing swimwear, comfortable workout clothing, or evening wear.
Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?
While a tummy tuck is beneficial for so many people, it isn’t suitable for everyone. It isn’t a substitute for weight loss since the fat removed is still a small amount. If someone is obese or significantly overweight, traditional weight loss or even weight loss surgery is more appropriate. A tummy tuck works best when you are close to your goal weight range.
Also, you need to be healthy enough for elective surgery. Be sure to inform your plastic surgeon about any health issues, unresolved symptoms, medical diagnoses, or medications you take. You must be generally healthy and a nonsmoker (or willing to quit).
Your Next Step: Schedule a Consultation
If you are interested in learning more about the different types of tummy tucks, contact a plastic surgeon to schedule a consultation. During your consultation, feel free to ask any questions you have and talk frankly about what you hope to achieve through plastic surgery.
Not only will your surgeon help you discover whether you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck, but they will also show you examples of the results you may expect. This may include photographs of prior patients or even digital imaging simulations.
Your doctor will also talk with you about the operation, what to expect, and how to plan to best your healing and recovery process. Since it is a surgical procedure, you will need to schedule downtime to heal.
The team at Charlotte Plastic Surgery has been voted the “best plastic surgeons” in Charlotte for eight years in a row. We are thrilled that our proven track record has been recognized. We combine a commitment to patient care, knowledge of today’s best options, and keen aesthetic eyes to deliver outstanding results and a transformational experience. Our follow-up care ensures each patient has the best and healthiest outcome possible.
If you are in the area and are considering a tummy tuck or any other cosmetic procedure, please reach out to schedule an appointment.
