7 Medical And Cosmetic Tummy Tuck Benefits
Besides the cosmetic enhancements such as scar reduction and excess skin removal, tummy tuck benefits also include health improvements.
The tummy tuck (or the abdominoplasty) is one of the most common elective cosmetic procedures available, thought to be within the top 5 most popular surgical enhancements.
During this surgery, excess fat and skin are removed from the lower and middle areas of the abdomen, resulting in firmer muscles and a smoother-looking stomach area.
The average recovery time for this type of procedure is 2 to 6 weeks, but an individual’s healing period depends on a variety of personal factors.
There are many reasons why people receive tummy tucks; and not all of them are cosmetic.
Keep reading to learn why people get them and how this surgery can improve a person’s overall health.
Health Benefits Of Tummy Tucks
Here are 7 tummy tuck benefits that will show how the abdominoplasty can help improve not only your look but your overall health too:
1. Scar Reduction
A tummy tuck surgery can hide the appearance of major scars and stretch marks in the abdominal area.
People have midsection scars for many reasons – two of the most common being C-section childbirth scars and hysterectomy scars.
Getting an abdominoplasty can help ‘neaten’ these scars and help a person feel more comfortable showing their stomach.
2. Excess Skin Removal
Over time, different physical conditions may cause changes in the stomach skin’s elasticity, such as pregnancy or changes in weight. Drastic weight changes can result in excess or sagging skin, which can be removed with a tuck.
3. Weak Or Damaged Muscles
The tummy tuck is also beneficial to those with weak or damaged abdominal muscles. Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of this.
During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles stretch to make room for the baby. Sometimes, this results in a separation of the muscles known as diastasis.
While performing a tummy tuck, a surgeon will pull those muscles back together. This allows the body to heal and become stronger.
4. Hernias
When an internal organ starts to push through tissue or muscle, it is known as a hernia. Hernias are not life-threatening and can happen in many parts of the body. However, they are most common in the abdominal area.
Depending on the severity of an abdominal hernia, you may be able to correct it with a tummy tuck procedure. If you have had previous surgeries, hernias are usually more common around old incision sites.
5. Self-Esteem Issues
Dissatisfaction with how their abdomen looks is another common reason people get tummy tucks. How a person views their body directly impacts their confidence – it may cause them to hide their body unnecessarily.
Some people choose to get tummy tucks as they result in a smoother, more contoured midsection. This results in higher levels of self-esteem, especially in older patients.
6. Back Pain
Abdominoplasties may also serve those with severe back pain. When stomach muscles weaken after physically taxing events, such as pregnancies or changes in weight, it may result in back pain.
During the tuck procedure, the abdominal muscles are tightened and therefore strengthened. As a result, they are better able to support the back, which can reduce back pain.
The surgery can also lead to improved posture, further reducing pain.
7. Urinary Incontinence
Those suffering from stress urinary incontinence (SUI) may also benefit from an abdominoplasty.
This type of urinary incontinence is activated by certain stressors, usually some type of physical trigger. This may include sneezing, exercise, laughing, coughing, and more.
Most people with SUI can address their issues without surgery, but those who undergo a tummy tuck may find it improves their SUI symptoms.
Speak with your doctor to find out if you might be a candidate for a tummy tuck if you suffer SUI.
These are just a few of the reasons that someone might decide to get a tummy tuck; cosmetic or otherwise. If you think you might benefit from an abdominoplasty, be sure to consult with your doctor before booking in with a reputable surgeon.
