By Kahlil Andrews MD
Stretch marks, also known as striae, are an unfortunate result of pregnancy and weight gain. The marks may resemble a cottage cheese appearance, or they may appear as red, purple or white lines across the abdomen, buttocks and hips. Women looking for a cosmetic procedure to eliminate unsightly stretch marks may consider a tummy tuck for this purpose. But is a tummy tuck the best way to get rid of stretch marks? Read on to find out.
Overview of the Tummy Tuck Procedure
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes loose skin and excess fat from the abdominal area. Separated abdominal muscles are also repaired and tightened for a smoother, natural appearance. A tummy tuck is commonly requested by women in the middle years who have found pregnancy has stretched their abdomen beyond its original state. Men and women who have experienced significant weight loss, resulting in excess skin, can also enjoy life-changing improvements after removing excess skin.
A tummy tuck is often performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia. Most patients who undergo this procedure are able to return to work and other regular activities within a few weeks. Exercise may be resumed approximately one month after surgery. Final results can usually be seen within 6-12 months, once the body has fully recovered from the procedure.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Another option for patients wishing to achieve a firmer, flatter abdomen is a mini tummy tuck. This procedure is less invasive than a full tummy tuck, with a smaller incisions and less recovery time afterward. A mini tummy tuck primarily focuses on reducing the “pouch” that sometimes appears in the lower abdominal area. It is not very effective in removing stretch marks or a significant amount of sagging skin.
Who is a Good Candidate?
It is important to know that the tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure and patients must achieve a stable weight and be in good overall health before surgery. Good skin elasticity is also important so that the skin can “snap back” after surgery. It is also important that patients have realistic expectations for what can be achieved with the procedure and be committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after surgery so that they can enjoy the toned appearance of the stomach for many years to come.
Tummy Tucks and Stretch Marks
A tummy tuck removes abdominal skin below the navel (the belly button). Most stretch marks appear in this area and can be removed or greatly minimized. In some cases, women have stretch marks above the navel or in the upper abdomen. These are not usually addressed by a tummy tuck. However, this skin might be moved to the lower part of the abdomen during the procedure. If that is the case, stretch marks will be hidden in the lower abdomen or along the bikini line so they are no longer as noticeable.
Stretch marks are an indication of dermal scarring, which does not go away without treatment. A full tummy tuck can remove a significant amount of stretch marks located below the navel for many patients. Smoother skin complements the more contoured abdomen, resulting from removal of excess fat and skin, helping many patients achieve their aesthetic goals with dramatic results.
Schedule a Consultation
For more information on how a tummy tuck can help you say goodbye to unsightly stretch marks, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery today. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Kahlil Andrews can discuss your surgical options in more detail and help you determine the most effective and safest procedure.
