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What a tummy tuck can and can’t do

Most people tend to carry a little extra fat around their stomach. Sometimes, diet and exercise can do the trick…but sometimes, it can’t. But, that’s not the only reason patients undergo a tummy tuck procedure. Things like pregnancy and significant weight gain or loss can create excess skin or weakened abdominal muscles, which can most easily be corrected by a tummy tuck procedure (also known as an abdominoplasty).

Still, there are some common misconceptions about this procedure, especially concerning what it can and can’t fix. Below are some examples of what a tummy tuck can do and what it can’t do.


What a tummy tuck can do

There are certain things a tummy tuck can do for you. You should be aware of these benefits if you are considering getting this type of surgical procedure.

A tummy tuck can create a flatter, toned stomach

The primary benefit of the tummy tuck is producing a flat, toned abdomen. A tummy tuck can leave you with a flatter stomach as the excess fat around your midsection is removed. You can look forward to a more contoured, lean physique when you have been unsuccessful at eliminating that excess fat through dieting and exercise alone. It can also work to fix abdominal muscles that have been weakened due to pregnancy and childbirth. However, don’t expect to instantly get a washboard stomach.

A tummy tuck can remove excess skin

If you have excess skin that sags and is unsightly, a tummy tuck can address that problem. You can have it removed by a plastic surgeon through certain safe techniques used during a tummy tuck procedure. The muscles and skin are pulled taut and sleek as the incisions are closed after the removal of excess fat.

 

What a tummy tuck can’t do

It’s important to understand what you cannot achieve when you get this procedure.

A tummy tuck can’t prevent future weight gain

A tummy tuck is a great option for women who have been unable to lose those few stubborn extra pounds after having children or for those who have lost a lot of weight but have excess, loose skin. However, a tummy tuck cannot prevent you from gaining weight again in the future. This means that after you have undergone a tummy tuck procedure, you should work diligently to retain your new, slimmer figure. Ideally, the best candidates for the procedure are people who make a commitment to retaining a healthy lifestyle and women who do not plan on getting pregnant again.

A tummy tuck can’t remove most stretch marks

Many patients have stretch marks due to their skin being pulled when they have gained excess weight. Stretch marks are unsightly and can be stubborn when it comes to removing them. While a tummy tuck can provide you with a sleeker, slimmer and more toned physique, it cannot remove all stretch marks. However, it will most likely change the position and width of the stretch marks.  You can speak with the doctor about other options for addressing stretch marks.

Can a tummy tuck be used for weight loss?

Because only a certain amount of body fat is safe to remove, a tummy tuck should not be viewed as a method for weight loss. Furthermore, a tummy tuck does not necessarily improve your blood pressure, cholesterol level or other effects stemming from obesity. For these very reasons, we don’t recommend a tummy tuck as a way to treat obesity or diabetes.

 

A tummy tuck can be a transformative procedure for those who are self-conscious about their pudge and feel like there’s no way to get rid of it. If you’re considering a tummy tuck, always ensure you seek out an experienced and personable board-certified plastic surgeon.

Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is key to your decision-making process. A board-certified plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), which is the only board the American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes to certify doctors in the full range of plastic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Laliberte at Radiance Plastic Surgery is a board-certified plastic surgeon and additionally,  a trained specialist in surgical body procedures. His artistic and highly technical approach produces natural results tailored to enhance and complement your specific goals and circumstances. 

If you are interested in learning more about body procedures, or to book a consultation, please complete our online form, call us, or email us at office@radianceplasticsurgery.ca.

 

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