Many people dream of a toned stomach. However, with hormonal changes, childbirth, and genetic aspects, some individuals may struggle harder to achieve flat stomachs. Luckily, if you fall in this category, you have numerous options to get rid of that pesky fat around your waist.
Among the safe and effective procedures is a tummy tuck. This cosmetic surgery offers a range of benefits, such as tightening the stomach muscles, eliminating excess skin, and reducing stretch marks.
Still, despite the popularity and effectiveness of a tummy tuck, several myths surround this procedure, which can deter some individuals from trying it. Discover some common myths about tummy tucks.
Tummy Tuck Is Only for Young Women Who Have Given Birth
While tummy tucks are prevalent among women after childbirth, the procedure is not limited to a particular group. Age and gender are not determining factors to establish who is a candidate for this procedure.
The best way to find out if you're a good candidate is to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Discover some aspects that will determine if you are a suitable candidate.
You Are in Good Health
Most people who undergo tummy tuck surgery are generally healthy and have no underlying medical conditions that could complicate the surgery or the healing process. However, if you do have any health concerns, discuss them with your surgeon before scheduling the procedure.
You Are at a Stable Weight
Weight stability means you shouldn't actively try to lose weight through exercise or diet after surgery. Therefore, if you intend to lose a significant amount of weight in the future, your surgeon may advise you to hit the gym or diet first to achieve your weight goal before you undergo surgery.
You Are Not Pregnant
If you are currently pregnant, you are not a suitable candidate for tummy tuck surgery and should wait until delivery to undergo this procedure. The reason is that the surgery can cause complications with your pregnancy and make it more challenging to lose weight afterward.
You Have Elastic Skin
Your surgeon will consider your skin's elasticity to establish how long you will take to bounce back after surgery. If your skin is very elastic, it will be able to bounce back after surgery and recover quickly. Conversely, if your skin is not very stretchy, you may not recover as well from the surgery, and you may be left with loose, sagging skin.
Tummy Tucks Leave Lasting Scars
All surgeries leave scars. Tummy tucks are no different. However, your surgeon will place the incisions in areas you can easily hide by clothing.
In addition, the scars will fade over time and become less visible. If you're concerned about the appearance of your scars, talk to your surgeon about scar revision surgery. This procedure can help improve the appearance of your scars so they are barely noticeable.
Tummy Tuck Is a Weight Loss Procedure
A tummy tuck is not an alternative to a healthy lifestyle and diet. While you may see a difference in your appearance after surgery, this procedure is not a weight loss solution.
Instead, a tummy tuck aims to remove excess fat and skin around your stomach so you can have a toned appearance. As such, to maintain the results, you will need to continue leading a healthy lifestyle. So don't neglect the gym, and don't give up on your clean diet to help you maintain tummy tuck results.
Now that you can differentiate tummy tuck myths from facts, you can decide whether the procedure is right for you. We are certified to offer a range of cosmetic surgeries to help you achieve your dream body and regain your confidence.
Contact us at Ronald C. Barry, MD, for a consultation and establish if you are fit for a tummy tuck.
