Is a Tummy Tuck Worth it?

It is very hard to get rid of belly fat. The same goes for toning abdominal muscles. Losing the flab and excess skin over the tummy is especially challenging for people who have lost a lot of weight in a short time. This blog explores the role of tummy tuck surgery in restoring abdominal aesthetics and maintaining it long-term. 

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

An abdominoplasty is the alternative term for a stomach tuck procedure. The goals of this cosmetic surgery are to strengthen muscles, remove extra skin and fat, and fix stomach abnormalities. This versatile surgery is for restoring the aesthetics of the abdomen.

The purpose of this surgery is to improve the cosmetic appearance of the tummy, it has nothing to do with losing weight. Therefore, obesity is not an indication of an abdominoplasty.

Why Do People Opt For a Tummy Tuck?

There are many reasons people opt to undergo a tummy tuck procedure. These include:

• To get rid of excess and loose skin after weight loss or post-pregnancy
• To repair a Diastasis Recti (structural defect of the abdominal muscles)
• To remove abdominal fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise
• To get rid of severe stretch marks and lax skin folds in the lower part of the abdomen
• To improve abdominal contours

Pregnancy and weight loss are by far the most common reasons for choosing a tummy tuck procedure. A tummy tuck may also be performed in combination with other cosmetic procedures as a part of a Mommy Makeover.

How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

For the success of a tummy tuck operation, it is necessary to have at least three things in mind. Selecting a reputable surgical center, a qualified surgeon, and reasonable expectations for the result.

Preoperative Considerations

At Mayclinik, patients are evaluated thoroughly before the surgery by a qualified surgical team. By performing a detailed physical examination and relevant investigations, it is confirmed that the prospective patient is in good health.

Anesthesia

Patients are given general anesthesia to ensure that they are comfortable and completely pain-free during the tummy tuck operation.

Tummy Tuck Surgery Step-by-Step

In general, a tummy tuck surgery step-by-step is performed as follows. 

Incision

After the anesthesia, the plastic surgeon starts the surgery by applying the incision in the lower part of the abdomen. 

Tightening the Muscles

The next step is to lift the skin and fat and tighten the muscles underneath.

Skin And Fat Removal

At this step, the stubborn fat cells are removed and the floppy skin folds are excised.

Belly Button

Due to excisions and repairs, the belly button requires repositioning to ensure a natural postoperative outcome.

Sutures And Dressing

The last step is closing the incisions and applying dressing to preserve and protect the surgical site.

Recovery

To make the recovery period streamlined, it is essential to follow the instructions of the surgical team, before and after a tummy tuck. It may take 8 - 12 weeks to completely recover after a tummy tuck surgery.

Is a Tummy Tuck Operation Worth Having?

A tummy tuck is a cosmetic procedure but still, it is major surgery. This raises the question, is it worth it to have a tummy tuck? The benefits of this versatile and effective procedure are as follows:

Restoring Abdominal Aesthetics

A tummy tuck restores the tummy contours by getting rid of the lax skin, and excess fat, and removing surface imperfections like pigmentation and stretch marks. By tightening the muscles and repairing defects (if any) the flat and firm contours of the abdomen are regained.

Better Posture And Core-strength

During the procedure abdominal muscles are tightened to increase strength and structural defects like Diastasis recti or herniation are repaired. These steps improve core strength and enhance posture. This will also improve secondary symptoms like back and shoulder pain.

Confidence Boost

Improved abdominal aesthetics and improved posture boost confidence as clothes fit and look better and the body profile becomes more proportionate and appealing.

Functional Enhancement

Skin folds are a breeding ground for infections and rashes due to the accumulation of sweat and excess friction. Defects like diastasis recti, if left untreated, can lead to hernia formation. Undergoing tummy tuck surgery step by step helps address these issues, enhancing function and significantly improving quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is a tummy tuck an effective weight loss solution?

No, It is not a weight loss solution. It is a cosmetic surgical procedure.

What is the price of a tummy tuck?

An abdominoplasty has no insurance coverage mostly, so the prices may vary. For a cost-effective procedure consider having a tummy tuck in Turkey, which is a renowned medical tourism destination.

Who should consider a tummy tuck?

A person in good health, at their ideal weight, and with realistic expectations of the outcome is a good candidate for a tummy tuck.

Will there be a scar after a tummy tuck operation?

Yes, the lower abdomen will have a scar, but it will go away with time. Usually, clothing hides the scar.