Tummy Tuck: Separating Fact from Fiction

When performed correctly, and for the correct reasons, tummy tuck surgery proves itself to be a wonderfully effective procedure. Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck works to tighten loose skin and muscles around the abdominal area. With a bounty of information, and, perhaps even more so because of the misinformation that abounds — we, at Midsota Plastic Surgery, have taken the time to explore some of the common misconceptions that surround a tummy tuck surgery.

Fiction: A tummy tuck will help with weight loss.

Although a tummy tuck helps to slim the waistline, abdominoplasty is by no means meant to aid in weight loss. That said, a tummy tuck can help you achieve your overarching weight loss goals that are not attainable through diet and exercise alone. Let us explain: loose and sagging skin can result from major weight loss — having been stretched, your skin loses its natural elasticity and is not able to “spring” back to your new, thinner physique. For many of our Midsota patients, their tummy tuck is the final step in finally achieving their desired figure.

Remember, a tummy tuck alone is not enough to keep you slim in the years to come. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is key to the long term success of your tummy tuck. At Midsota, we have found that — loving their newly trim stomach — many of our patients are better motivated to live out health-wise habits.

Fiction: Tummy tucks are only for women.

Abdominoplasty is not gender exclusive. While undeniably more popular amongst women, this is primarily because of the extreme stretching that occurs during a woman’s nine-months of pregnancy. Men, like women, are able to benefit from a tummy tuck’s toning ways. As made evident by statistics, men are increasingly choosing to undergo tummy tuck surgery — according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the past fifteen years have seen a 100 percent increase in the number of men choosing this body contouring procedure.

Fiction: Scarring will be extreme and obvious.

As with any surgical procedure, some scarring can be expected. Placed low along the pubic line, the necessary incisions can be tucked within the natural folds of your skin. Undetectable when fully dressed, most of our patient’s scars are easily hidden by a pair of underwear, swim trunks, and even bikini bottoms.

Fiction: Tummy tucks are painful.

Not only is it understandable, but it is completely normal to be concerned about post-surgical pain. Fortunately, we can assure you that for most of our patients, their anticipation is far worse than reality. Barring that you follow your surgeon’s post-operative plan, take the necessary pain medication, and are careful to let your body properly and fully heal — recovery from your tummy tuck should be relatively easy.

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