Reasons to Consider a Tummy Tuck

The tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, has become one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States in recent years. This procedure removes excess fat and loose skin and tightens weak fascia, fibrous connective tissue that surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves. It can also remove stretch marks in the area and excess skin in the lower abdomen below the bellybutton. It also strengthens the muscles in the abdominal wall.

If you believe a tummy tuck surgery could be beneficial for you, it’s advisable to seek a consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon. In Manhattan, plastic surgery practices specializing in tummy tuck procedures boast surgeons with significant expertise. They can provide the information you need to make a well-informed decision about getting a tummy tuck surgery in Manhattan.

How a Tummy Tuck can Help

Factors such as significant changes in weight, pregnancy, abdominal surgery, such as a C-section, and aging can result in excess fat, poor elasticity of the skin or weakened connective tissue in your abdomen.

A tummy tuck enhances the contour and aesthetics of the abdomen by eliminating surplus skin and fat. Typically, sutures are used to tighten the connective tissue (fascia) in the abdominal area, and the remaining skin is repositioned to achieve a more sculpted appearance.

Combining a tummy tuck with other body-contouring operations like breast surgery is an option. If you have had liposuction, a tummy tuck may also be necessary because liposuction just removes fat and the tissue directly beneath the skin. It does not remove any extra skin.

However, a tummy tuck may not be suitable for everyone. Your surgeon might advise against it if you:

• Intend to undergo significant weight loss
• Are contemplating future pregnancies
• Suffer from severe chronic conditions like heart disease or diabetes
• Possess a body mass index exceeding 30
• Engage in smoking
• Have undergone a prior abdominal surgery resulting in substantial scar tissue

Types of abdominoplasty

How abdominoplasty is done depends on the type of result a patient wishes to have. The surgery can take from 1 hour to 5 hours depending on how it is performed.  Below are 3 types of tummy tucks:

Complete abdominoplasty

Complete abdominoplasty is mostly done when a lot of correction is necessary. The surgeon starts with an incision around the bikini line. The quantity of excess skin that is removed determines how long the scar will be.

Partial or mini-abdominoplasty

Mini-abdominoplasty targets the lower abdominal area, particularly below the belly button. The incisions made during a mini-abdominoplasty are generally smaller than those in a full tummy tuck. Mini-abdominoplasty may involve less extensive muscle repair than the complete option.

Circumferential abdominoplasty

This comprehensive approach is recommended for people who have undergone significant weight loss, and have loose skin and tissue around the abdomen, hips, and lower back. It addresses excess skin and fat not only in the abdominal area but also extending to the hips and lower back. The procedure aims to contour and reshape the entire midsection, providing a more toned and proportionate appearance. Due to its comprehensive approach, circumferential abdominoplasty typically requires longer incisions than other abdominoplasty procedures.

Health Benefits of Getting a Tummy Tuck

• Improves the appearance, abdominal tone
• Forms a better posture
• Reduces stress urinary incontinence
• Easier management of weight
• Hernia correction

Tummy tuck surgery can be a life-changing procedure for those who desire a more sculpted and toned abdominal area. Understanding your motivations and the potential benefits and considerations involved is the first step in making an informed decision.