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You know that a tummy tuck will help you whittle your midsection and create a smoother body profile. But did you know that same procedure might offer you medical benefits as well? The American Society of Plastic Surgeons lists a number of potential benefits a tummy tuck offers that goes well beyond the aesthetic results.
In addition to cosmetic improvements, tummy tucks can also provide important health benefits.
Introduction to Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to create a flatter, firmer abdominal area by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. This cosmetic surgery is especially popular among individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, multiple pregnancies, or who struggle with weakened abdominal muscles that do not respond to diet and exercise alone.
During a tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Andrews will carefully address weakened abdominal muscles and repair any separation, helping to restore strength and stability to the abdominal wall. By removing excess abdominal skin and tightening the stomach area, the surgery not only enhances the appearance of the midsection but also alleviates discomfort and potential health issues caused by hanging skin or abdominal weakness. Tummy tuck procedures are tailored to each patient’s needs, making them an effective solution for those seeking both cosmetic improvement and relief from the physical effects of weight loss, pregnancy, or aging.
Improvement in Stress Urinary Incontinence
Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is characterized by an inability to control bladder function, resulting in urine leakage after coughing, laughing, or exercise. The pelvic floor muscles play a key role in bladder control, and strengthening them can help alleviate SUI. A study published by Carruthers, et al in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2014 showed an association between abdominoplasty and post-operative improvement in SUI. The mechanism of improvement may involve placement of tension on the urethra related to the tight abdominal closure that follows the elliptical lower abdominal skin excision performed with a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck surgically tightens the lower abdominal muscles, which can indirectly strengthen the pelvic floor and improve urinary function.
Repair and Prevention of Some Hernias
A ventral hernia occurs when abdominal tissue or intestine pushes through abdominal tissue breaks in the abdominal wall. This bulge can become painful and, even if it is corrected, there is a higher risk of the bulge developing once again. Ventral hernias can result from rectus diastasis, which is the separation of the abdominal muscles, often caused by factors such as weight loss, previous surgeries, or childbirth. During a tummy tuck, both the ventral hernia and rectus diastasis can be successfully corrected, restoring the integrity of the abdominal wall. In addition, the surgery strengthens the abdominal wall, which lowers the risk for a recurrence of the hernia.
Improved Posture Means Less Back Pain
A tummy tuck can improve posture, as the lighter weight of the midsection allows you to stand up straighter. Weakened muscles, especially weakened stomach muscles, can contribute to poor posture and back pain, but a tummy tuck helps address these issues by restoring and tightening the abdominal area. The leaner look to the midsection can also give you greater confidence, so you are less likely to hunch over to hide your stomach. When your posture improves, chronic pain in the upper and lower back can also be significantly relieved.
Motivation to Maintain Healthy Weight Loss
The Wall Street Journal cited evidence showing a tummy tuck after significant weight loss may also motivate the patient to maintain that new healthy weight after surgery. Extreme weight loss can result in loose skin and extra skin, which may cause discomfort or skin irritation. People that lose large amounts of weight (50-100 pounds) are often discouraged after they reach their weight loss goals because loose, excess skin gets in the way of their final result. Trimming away that skin during a tummy tuck procedure makes the results of both the weight loss and the surgery that much more satisfying, which prompts most patients to remain on track with their weight maintenance goals. After the excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is pulled and tightened for a smoother, more contoured abdomen.
Schedule a Consultation
A tummy tuck offers dramatic aesthetic results, sculpting a leaner, smoother midsection and a more attractive body contour overall. This procedure can remove excess skin and excess fat, improving both comfort and appearance. In addition to the cosmetic success of the procedure, you may find your tummy tuck offers benefits that extend far beyond how you fit into your clothing. However, it is important to try to lose weight through healthy lifestyle changes before considering a tummy tuck, as surgery is not a substitute for weight loss.
To learn more about the benefits of a tummy tuck, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery at 319-220-4644.
