Some benefits of a tummy tuck

Image source: sanctuarycosmeticcenter.com

The number of people undergoing a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty has grown significantly over the years.  Between the year 2000 and 2014 alone, tummy tuck procedures in the U.S. rose 87%, based on statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 

The procedure entails tightening muscles and doing away with loose skin and fat from the abdominal area.  It often complements the now-popular mommy makeover set of procedures that aid women in recovering their figures after giving birth. 

While a tummy tuck offers a lot of aesthetic benefits, it likewise provides sound medical and health advantages.  For one, the procedure helps patients improve posture and abdominal tone, especially after a series of pregnancies or severe weight loss.  Weak muscles are tightened to support the spine more durably, while excess fat deposits are removed to flatten the abdomen.

Image source: womenfitness.net

Tummy tucks also offer relief from ventral hernia, wherein the abdominal tissue or intestine starts to push past the abdominal wall.  This condition may follow an appendectomy or a Caesarian section.  An abdominoplasty likewise aids in dealing with stress urinary incontinence or SUI, which may develop in women after giving birth.  Here, the bladder has been weakened and tends to empty itself when one coughs, sneezes, laughs, or exerts effort in general.

With a tummy tuck, fully healed patients will notice that doing exercises is now more tolerable, helping them recover their interest in activities like walking, running, gym routines, and even aerobics.  This is because those weak abs have now been strengthened and excess skin that impedes movement has been done away with.

Tup Ingram, M.D. is a reconstructive and plastic surgeon. He completed his residencies in general and plastic surgery in the Southwestern Medical Center and took various fellowships abroad. More reads on cosmetic surgery procedures here.