Should I Get a Tummy Tuck?
The quest for a slim, sexy stomach may seem like it never ends, but for some individuals, tummy tuck surgery (also called abdominoplasty) can be the answer for flat, firm abs.
While there are a variety of fat removal and body contouring procedures, tummy tuck surgery is one of the best options for tightening up your midsection. However, this procedure may not be a great option for everyone. If you’re wondering whether a tummy tuck is right for you, we’re breaking down some of the qualities that make for a good candidate for this surgery below.
How Does a Tummy Tuck Work?
Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the lower and middle abdomen area and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. The surgery is performed through an incision that extends from above the pubis toward each hip.
In many instances, tummy tucks also require a second incision near the belly button to allow for removal of skin and fat. Extra skin is removed from the body, and abdominal muscles are drawn together before the incision is closed with sutures.
Results from a tummy tuck are permanent, though gaining weight after surgery can reduce effectiveness. Recovery from the procedure typically takes at least four weeks, after which surgery recipients can resume normal activities.
Unlike liposuction, which is a wonderful procedure for removing fat, a tummy tuck is much for effective for addressing sagging or loose skin. It not only eliminates fat but also helps to remove extra skin and tighten up the appearance of abdominal muscles.
Is a Tummy Tuck Right For Me? 4 Questions To Ask
If you’re curious whether you’re a candidate for a tummy tuck, ask yourself the questions below.
1. Do I Have Excess Skin?
If you’re mainly concerned about fat removal rather than excess skin, a less invasive surgery like liposuction may be a better fit for you. However, if your main area of concern is excess abdominal skin, a tummy tuck may be your best option.
Abdominoplasties are particularly effective for individuals that have recently given birth, lost weight or have dealt with weight fluctuations. In these instances, excess skin in the midsection is quite common.
2. Am I Content With My Weight?
If you’re considering a tummy tuck, it’s important that you are close to your ideal weight before the procedure, because weight fluctuations, both gains, and losses, can cause adverse effects. Tummy tucks do not provide significant weight loss, and the surgery is primarily used for body contouring and adjusting the shape of your midsection.
It wouldn’t make sense to remove excess skin with a tummy tuck surgery if you’re going to continue losing weight after the surgery. Losing weight after abdominoplasty may cause loose skin again- defeating the purpose of getting the surgery.
3. Will My Diet and Activity Support a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery is not meant to replace proper diet and exercise. While the surgery provides permanent effects, weight fluctuations may diminish the positive results.
Since this surgery draws your abdominal muscles together and creates a flatter abdomen, weight gain can cause unusual fat distribution near the hips, back or other areas. That being said, understand that maintaining your figure through a healthy diet and exercise routine is important for recipients of tummy tuck surgery.
4. Will I Have More Children?
Are you a woman planning on having another child? If so, then know that a tummy tuck is not for you – at least until you’ve had your last pregnancy. While tummy tuck surgery is ideal for addressing post-pregnancy issues, the procedure is not advised for women that will become pregnant again. Pregnancy naturally stretches the skin and muscles of the abdomen, which can cause many complications for abdominoplasty recipients.
So, Should I Get a Tummy Tuck?
As a general rule, if excess abdominal skin is your main area of concern and you plan on staying at your current weight, a tummy tuck is typically a great option. For individuals mainly trying to remove excess fat from their midsection, liposuction may be better, as it is a less invasive operation with a faster and easier recovery time.
Every individual is different and it’s recommended to consult with an experienced, board-certified cosmetic surgeon to learn how a tummy tuck procedure would affect your body. If you are interested in learning more about whether abdominoplasty is right for you, you can visit our office for a consultation.
