When Should I Consider Tummy Tuck Surgery?
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Many people have issues with excess fat accumulation around the lower abdomen. This excess fat has many affectionate nicknames, including the “pooch,” “muffin top,” and “tire.” And just as there are many names for the stubborn fat and skin around the midsection, there are also many sources. Some of these include pregnancy, genetics, and weight fluctuations.
No matter the cause, unfortunately, most people find that this fat is much more challenging to get rid of than it is to put on. A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery that can help with stubborn fat and excess skin.
So, how do you know if a tummy tuck is right for you?
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck removes excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen while improving abdominal contours. A tummy tuck also corrects diastasis recti, which is the separation of the abdominal muscles. This surgical skin removal procedure is often performed alongside liposuction to remove fatty deposits that are not responsive to diet and exercise.
What Can I Achieve with a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck can:
- Remove excess skin
- Remove excess fat
- Improve abdominal contours
- Correct diastasis recti
- Remove stretch marks below the belly button
A tummy tuck cannot:
- Correct stretch marks above the belly button
- Substitute a consistent diet and exercise
- Be used for significant weight loss
It is important to know what a tummy tuck can and cannot do so that you can set realistic expectations for your results. A tummy is not a major weight-loss procedure. To achieve optimal results, most patients need to lose weight naturally and get as close as possible to their ideal weight. A tummy tuck offers the finishing touches for your abdominal contour that cannot be achieved with normal exercise.
You Should Consider a Tummy Tuck If…
- You are in good overall health
- You have excess fat and skin around your lower abdomen
- You are living with diastasis recti
- Your efforts with diet and exercise have not given you the desired results
- You are done having children
- You avoid smoking
The best way to be sure if a tummy tuck is right for you is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, you will be able to share your goals and concerns with your surgeon so you can come up with a personalized plan to achieve your goals.
Want to Learn More?
If you are considering a tummy tuck and would like to learn more about your options in Piedmont, North Carolina, please feel free to contact Dr. Willard at 336-886-1667 or fill out this contact form to learn more.