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.
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. 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 closer that follows the elliptical lower abdominal skin excision performed with a tummy tuck.
Repair and Prevention of Some Hernias
Ventral hernias occur when there is a weakening of the abdominal muscles. This bulge can become painful and even if it is corrected, there is a higher risk of the bulge developing once again. During a tummy tuck, the hernia can be successfully corrected. 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. 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
In 2013, 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. 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.
A tummy tuck offers dramatic aesthetic results, sculpting a leaner, smoother midsection and a more attractive body contour overall. 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. To learn more about the benefits of a tummy tuck, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic, Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery at 319-800-6877.
