If you’ve recently lost a large amount of weight, you’re probably enjoying your new slimmer figure this summer season. However, one of the few downsides to radical weight loss is the loose skin you may have noticed around your abdominal region. A cosmetic procedure known as a tummy tuck is the perfect way to eliminate that loose skin and take full advantage of your new, slimmer physique.
The Tummy Tuck: What You Need to Know
The tummy tuck procedure is performed to remove the extra fat and skin from the middle and lower abdomen, and to tighten the muscles along the abdominal wall, dramatically reducing the bulk of the abdominal area. In some cases, even greater results can be achieved when abdominoplasty is performed in conjunction with liposuction, an option that has produced excellent results for many of our abdominoplasty patients.
Many tummy tuck patients find that their firmer, flatter abdomen boosts their confidence and makes them feel more comfortable with their appearance.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Men and women who are in relatively good physical shape but are bothered by bulky fat deposits or loose abdominal skin are good tummy tuck candidates. Some abdominoplasty patients at our St. Charles practice have found the tummy tuck procedure to be extremely effective after multiple pregnancies as part of the comprehensive mommy makeover treatment. Pregnancy can often stretch the abdominal muscles and the skin beyond the point where they can return to normal, even with diet and exercise. Receiving a tummy tuck at St. Charles Plastic Surgery can help to enhance your appearance and self-confidence.
Tummy Tucks & Pregnancy
Having a tummy tuck will not affect your ability to have children. The pregnancy, however, may re-stretch the muscles and abdominal skin re-creating the laxity that was present before the procedure. It is typically recommended that you consider waiting until all planned childbearing is completed. Of course, there are situations in which it may be in the patient’s best interest to proceed with the tummy tuck before childbearing is completed, such as after massive weight loss.
If you’ve recently given birth, you should be fully healed from your c-section before an abdominoplasty is performed. Once you have lost your weight gain from pregnancy and you have stabilized, the maximum amount of tightening can be achieved to optimize your results.
A tummy tuck procedure is also a great way to remove the stretch marks that come with pregnancy or being overweight. The amount of stretch marks removed after a tummy tuck depends on the location of the stretch marks and the looseness of your skin. If the stretch marks are below the belly button, they will be removed. Dr. Ghaderi will show you the expected outcome for your individual case during your first consultation.
Think you might benefit from a tummy tuck procedure? Get in touch with us today to set up a consultation with Dr. Ghaderi!
