...

Tummy Tucks – When You Should Wait

Plastic surgeons performed over 127,000 tummy tucks in 2015, making it the fifth most popular plastic surgery procedure in the United States. Tummy tucks, known medically as abdominoplasty, involve the surgical removal of fat deposits and extra skin from the abdominal area and result in a flatter, trimmer look. Dr. Peterson meets with many patients every year to talk about tummy tucks and to determine whether or not they are a candidate for this surgery.

Although tummy tucks are a popular and safe procedure when performed by a clinically trained plastic surgeon like Dr. Peterson, this surgery is not for everyone. Individuals who are on a weight loss journey and have not yet reached their goal should wait to undergo this surgery to reshape their waistline. Tummy tucks are not for instant weight loss. Instead, the surgery should be considered an opportunity to contour, tone, and tighten after patients reach their desired weight loss goals.

Many women choose to have them in order to tighten extra skin and muscles after pregnancy. Female patients who are seeking tummy tucks are advised to put off the procedure until after they are finished having children. Abdominal muscles are tightened during the surgery, and the stress caused by future pregnancies from weight gain, labor, and potential C-sections can stretch and even separates abdominal muscles. For ninety percent of pregnant women, pregnancy also means developing stretch marks. Since tummy tucks remove the extra skin as part of the procedure, this means existing stretch marks are also removed – and pregnancy after a tummy tuck could mean brand new stretch marks!

Smokers and individuals with underlying health conditions who are seeking a tummy tuck should consult with Dr. Peterson in order to discuss risks of the procedure and any impact it may have on their health condition.

Tummy tucks are an appropriate plastic surgery procedure for many individuals. Patients who have experienced significant weight loss and are at a stable weight, are in good health, are nonsmokers, and are looking to update their appearance are ideal candidates for tummy tucks.

Patients looking for answers about abdominoplasty should schedule a consultation with Dr. Peterson by calling 785-234-9000 today.