For some of us, intensive dieting and constant exercise just do not bring the full results that we crave, especially in troublesome areas like around the belly. This is why so many men and women turn to abdominoplasty every year, a procedure commonly referred to by many as a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck helps improve unsightly belly fat by flattening the abdomen. During a tummy tuck excess fat is removed from around the stomach and the muscles in the abdominal wall are tightened, leaving the patient with a smoother, more attractive mid-section.
The tummy tuck is a very different procedure from liposuction, which is where excess fat deposits are removed from the body using either a suction pump or large syringe. Tummy tucks are great for new moms that are all done having children, and also for previously obese patients that have lost a drastic amount of weight and are looking to have excess fat deposits or loose skin removed. Women considering a tummy tuck do need to be especially careful, and if you plan on becoming pregnant in the future your surgeon may recommend postponing your procedure until after you have finished having children. During a tummy tuck the muscles in your abdominal wall will be tightened, and pregnancy is likely to separate these vertical muscles.
There are two types of tummy tucks that you should discuss with your doctor:
- Complete abdominoplasty: During this procedure your abdomen will be cut with a low incision, at about the same level as your pubic hair line. Your skin, muscle and tissue will be manipulated as needed by your surgeon, and a new belly button will be formed.
- Partial or mini-abdominoplasty: This type of tummy tuck is ideal for patients who have fat deposits below the naval. This procedure requires much shorter incisions, and your belly button will most likely not be moved.
Eating healthy and exercising are great ways to get in shape, but the truth is it is not always enough to give you that beach ready body you crave. Talking to your doctor about a tummy tuck may be the best next step for you.