Understanding the Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a plastic surgery that is used to remove excess fat and skin and help to restore weakened or separated muscles in the abdominal area. This works to create an abdominal profile that is far more smooth than before the surgery. Many people choose to have an abdominoplasty surgery because they are not able, through exercise and weight control alone, to get a flat and well-toned abdomen.

There is a common misconception that people who get surgery are typically overweight. The reality is that even individuals who have a normal body weight and are proportionate in other areas of their body can develop an abdomen that protrudes to create a loose or sagging.

Why do people need a tummy tuck?

There are many reasons why somebody, who is otherwise completely proportional, may have an abdomen that requires surgery. These causes include:

Heredity

In some families, a large abdominal area or protruding stomach is hereditary. For people with this hereditary condition, there is a higher risk of abdomen issues. In these situations, surgery may be the most effective option for a healthier change and lifestyle.

Aging

The number one reason people start to find that they are unable to control the size and shape of the abdomen with exercise is due to age. Older muscles tend to be harder to work out and this can lead to a protruding, loose or sagging abdomen that requires abdominoplasty for significant changes.

Weight fluctuations

The body thrives in a certain rhythm and will experience problems when a person’s weight fluctuates wildly. Thus, a tummy tuck may be the solution to help get the patient toward a healthier state. If there are significant fluctuations in a person’s weight, going from one extreme to the other, the individual may experience difficulty slimming down with diet and exercise. In situations like this, a tummy tuck may be the ideal solution.

Pregnancy

Many women find, particularly if they get pregnant later in life, that it is difficult to lose the weight after the pregnancy. Sometimes, women are unable to achieve this at all and they may opt for surgery in order to have the slim, flat and sexy abdomen again.

Surgeries

Sometimes a prior surgery can lead to an abdomen being distended, protruding or loose. Since this condition has been caused by external factors it becomes virtually impossible to get back the trim and toned stomach that a person wants without an additional surgery to correct the issues.

Permanent correction

It is important to understand that a tummy tuck is technically permanent and provides positive life-changing outcomes. However, it is also important for people to realize that if they experience significant fluctuations in their weight, then they can find themselves back at square one.

If an individual is planning substantial weight loss, it may be advisable to put the tummy tuck plans on hold until the person reaches the desired weight. To discuss this procedure further, call and schedule an appointment.

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