What Makes Good Tummy Tuck Patients?

What Makes Good Tummy Tuck Patients

Tummy tuck surgery is a popular option for people with loose skin, excess fat, or weakened or separated muscles in the abdomen. The surgery removes loose skin, removes excess fat and fatty tissue deep in the abdomen, and corrects separated abdominal muscles.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), approximately 170,110 tummy tuck procedures were performed in the U.S. in 2023. Many of these tummy tuck patients sought surgery after significant weight loss or pregnancy.

Table of Contents

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also called abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat while tightening the abdominal muscles. The procedure improves the abdominal contour and creates a firmer, flatter appearance on the stomach.

If you are someone who has tried to correct issues like these with diet and exercise alone, to no avail, a tummy tuck may be the answer you’ve been looking for.

Tummy Tuck Candidates

Not everyone is a good tummy tuck candidate. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sanam Zahedi evaluates all of her patients carefully to determine if they meet the criteria for this surgery. Below, we have outlined the requirements if you are looking to pursue this popular plastic surgery for yourself.

Good Physical Health

Tummy Tuck Diabetic PatientsTummy tuck patients should be in good overall health before surgery. This means you should lead a healthy lifestyle, which includes a nutritious diet and exercise.

Chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease must be well-controlled to reduce the risk of complications. It’s best if you are absent of these conditions as they can potentially cause complications during or after surgery.

Tummy tuck diabetic patients should discuss their condition with their surgeon to ensure safe outcomes. In some cases, patients may need additional testing prior to booking their surgery.

Realistic Expectations

Good candidates understand what tummy tuck surgery can achieve. While the procedure removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles, it is not a substitute for weight loss. This is not a “weight loss” surgery.

Patients should expect an improved abdominal contour, and we anticipate that you will be very happy with your results. That is our goal. With that said, as with any surgery, there is always a risk for complications, and “perfection” is of course not possible.

Loose Abdominal Skin

Excess skin is the leading concern for patients considering this surgery. Significant weight loss or pregnancy often leads to loose, sagging skin in the abdominal area. A tummy tuck removes excess skin to create a smoother, more contoured abdomen. If you have excess fat and not excess skin, you need liposuction, not a tummy tuck.

Separated Abdominal Muscles

Separated or weakened abdominal muscles, often caused by pregnancy, can be repaired during the procedure. Tightening these muscles improves core strength and flattens the lower abdomen. This step is essential for achieving a well-toned abdomen.

Done Having Children

Patients planning future pregnancies may want to wait before having a tummy tuck. Pregnancy can stretch the skin and weaken the abdominal wall, potentially undoing the results. Most tummy tucks are more effective when performed after a patient is done having children.

At a Stable Healthy Weight

Tummy Tuck Obese PatientsPatients should be at a stable weight before surgery. Significant weight gain or loss after a tummy tuck can affect the results. For example, for obese patients tummy tuck surgery may actually cause more complications. Tummy tuck surgery for obese patients is possible in some cases, but losing weight beforehand often improves outcomes.

Tummy Tucks as Part of a Mommy Makeover

Tummy tucks are a common part of mommy makeover procedures. These surgeries combine treatments like breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tucks to address multiple areas at once.

A tummy tuck helps restore the abdominal area, making it a popular choice for women after pregnancy. Mommy makeover patients are able to choose the surgeries they want for themselves, based on their needs and goals.

FAQs: Tummy Tuck Surgery

Can I combine a tummy tuck with other surgeries?

Yes, many patients combine a tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures. Common combinations include liposuction or breast surgeries. Combining surgeries can save recovery time and achieve more comprehensive results.

Are tummy tucks painful?

Tummy tucks involve some discomfort, especially during the first few days. Pain is typically manageable with prescribed medications. Most patients find the results worth the temporary discomfort.

What kind of tummy tuck scar will I have?

The tummy tuck scar is usually located along the bikini line. Its length depends on the type of tummy tuck performed. Following post-operative care instructions helps minimize the appearance of scars over time.

When will I see my tummy tuck results?

Patients notice some improvement right after surgery, but swelling can take weeks to subside. Final results usually appear after several months, once the abdominal area has fully healed and swelling has resolved.

Book a Consultation Today

To learn more about your candidacy for surgery, tummy tuck preparation tips, tummy tuck cost, and more, please contact us today. Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sanam Zahedi would be delighted to speak with you about your options at your personal consultation appointment.

References

  1. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tummy-tuck/candidates
  2. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf