01 Jul The Many Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
Most people want a tummy tuck to finally achieve that taut, flat stomach they’ve always dreamed about, but did you know there are even more benefits to this popular plastic surgery? It’s one of the most requested procedures at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center, both as a standalone procedure and as part of a “mommy makeover.” A tummy tuck is technically known as abdominoplasty and is frequently paired with liposuction to further enhance the results of a flat stomach. For patients who have never had a completely flat tummy before, they are often unaware of the benefits of such an aesthetic. Let’s dig a little deeper into what exactly you can expect post-tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck includes the removal of unwanted fat and skin from the abdomen. The belly can be particularly resistant to diet and exercise efforts, especially for patients whose tummies are stretched out from pregnancy or weight fluctuations. Ultimately, if you have loose skin, no amount of exercise or diet will help you vanquish it—only surgery can remove excess skin. A flat abdomen is usually the number one reason someone is interested in a tummy tuck, as this surgery removes bulges and lax skin. However, one of the other benefits patients quickly realize is that they can wear just about any clothing or outfit they want.
If you’ve gotten used to hiding your stomach when wearing a swimsuit or trunks, avoid certain styles even though you love them, or lack self-confidence in intimate situations, a tummy tuck can help. Maybe you miss the trim figure you used to have, or maybe you’ve always been self-conscious about your stomach. Being able to wear any clothing or style you like with absolute confidence can be life-changing. Tummy tuck incisions are hidden below the belt line, meaning you can wear virtually anything you want without worrying about an un-trim belly or scar showing.
Why Get a Tummy Tuck?
Many patients are surprised to learn just how much unnecessary lax skin they have on their abdomen. Sometimes this excess skin is obvious, but other times patients have grown used to it. Skin laxity can cause folds, especially when you sit or bend, that may be prone to irritation or rashes—even infections. Skin folds create an ideal environment for moisture and chafing, so removing unnecessary skin from the abdomen isn’t just aesthetically pleasing but also an issue of comfort and health.
Another pleasant surprise is that tummy tucks can remove a fair amount of stretch marks. You may have heard there’s no real, effective way to get rid of stretch marks (some lasers and other non-surgical treatments can mildly help appearance), but in reality stretch marks are permanent—unless they’re surgically removed. The amount of stretch marks removed during a tummy tuck will depend on where those stretch marks are and how much skin is removed. But keep in mind that when you get rid of lax, excess skin you’re also getting rid of stretch marks. That’s always a bonus!
Medical Benefits of Abdominoplasty
Did you know that there can be medical benefits to a tummy tuck? A lot of women experience stress urinary incontinence after having multiple pregnancies, and tummy tucks have been known to offer some serious relief. Abdominoplasty can also help improve posture by bringing back firmness to the tummy area. Those who suffer from a ventral hernia can also experience relief after a tummy tuck. This type of hernia is linked to weakened abdominal muscles, and these muscles are tightened during every tummy tuck.
Of course, you can’t overlook the mental and emotional benefits of looking and feeling your best. Self-esteem and confidence usually skyrocket after a tummy tuck with a board certified plastic surgeon. When we look good, we feel good, and that’s going to positively affect every part of your life. Patients who have undergone a tummy tuck experience an increase in self-value which can lead to great outcomes in both their professional and personal life. The reality is that a tummy tuck really can make a huge difference not only in how you look, but how you feel. It’s no wonder abdominoplasty is on many people’s wish list. If you’d like to learn more about a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation at Dr. Shaun Parson Plastic Surgery & Skin Center by calling (480) 282-8386.