In many ways, our appearance affects our self-esteem. Those who feel self-conscious about their bodies may find it difficult to feel comfortable in their skin and participate in the activities they once loved. In recent years, tummy tucks have become a popular cosmetic procedure to help people get rid of excess fat on their abdomen. That’s why Dr. Rimma Finkel was happy to put together this guide to help you explore the pros and cons of a tummy tuck procedure. 

What is a tummy tuck procedure?

Before we talk about the pros and cons of a tummy tuck procedure, it’s important to understand what exactly a tummy tuck is. A tummy tuck, also called an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the shape and appearance of the abdominal area. During this procedure, a surgeon will remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen to help you achieve a thinner and more toned look. 

The majority of patients who opt for a tummy tuck are women who want to restore their body shape after giving birth (these are often called Mommy Makeovers). However, this procedure is not exclusive to women; many men also seek to improve the look of their abdominal area. Tummy tucks are also commonly performed on patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and want to remove excess hanging skin around the tummy area. 

Pros and Cons of a Tummy Tuck Procedure

Now that you know what a tummy tuck is, let’s explore some of the pros and cons of a tummy tuck procedure. If you are considering this procedure, be sure to do plenty of research and speak with a qualified cosmetic surgeon about your options. If you have any questions or want to learn more about tummy tucks, feel free to reach out to the office of Dr. Rimma Finkel at (480) 963-3034.

Pros of a Tummy Tuck

Tummy tucks are safe and effective procedures that can be customized to help you achieve your specific goals. Here are some of the most notable benefits of a tummy tuck procedure. 

• Tummy tucks can create a slimmer, flatter waistline by removing loose skin and excess fat from the abdominal area. 
• A tummy tuck procedure can also repair weak or separated abdominal muscles. This can help correct a protruding belly (which is sometimes called a “pooch”).
• This procedure can remove or reduce stretch marks from pregnancy. It may also help improve the look of scars from C-sections or hysterectomies. 
• The surgery can be used along with other methods like liposuction to increase the benefits. 
• You may notice that your clothes fit better than they did before the procedure.
• Tummy tucks offer a solution for those who are unable to achieve the look they want with diet and exercise alone.  
• Tummy tucks often help patients feel more confident in their appearances. 
• Some patients may notice an improvement in certain medical issues, such as lower back pain or urinary incontinence. 

Cons of a Tummy Tuck

As with any cosmetic procedure, tummy tucks come with their share of drawbacks. Here are some of the cons to consider if you are thinking about getting a tummy tuck. 

• A tummy tuck is a major operation. As such, it has a considerable recovery time. You will need to hold off on strenuous activities for at least 6 weeks. 
• Post-operation swelling can take several months to recede. Because of this, it may take a while to see the results you were expecting. 
• All tummy tuck procedures leave a scar on the lower abdomen, However, this scar will be well hidden within the bikini area. You can improve the look of your scar with silicone scar sheets or other scar treatments. 
• Because it is a cosmetic procedure, not all insurance companies will cover a tummy tuck. Be sure to ask your surgeon about financing options. 
• Gaining weight or becoming pregnant after getting an abdominoplasty may result in unwanted results. (This is why we recommend that women wait until they are done having kids before getting a tummy tuck.)

Although there are several drawbacks, most people experience positive results following a tummy tuck. Be sure to discuss any concerns and risks with your surgeon. 

Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures

There are a few different types of tummy tuck procedures that are suitable for different goals. Your board-certified surgeon will determine which type of tummy tuck can help you achieve your goals while minimizing scarring. Here are some of the most common types of tummy tuck procedures. 

Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck is designed to improve the appearance of both the upper and lower abdominal regions. This procedure is a good solution for patients looking to flatten and contour the areas above and below their belly buttons. 

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck procedure only addresses the lower abdomen, which is the area below the belly button. This is suitable for patients who are concerned with having a protruding “pooch,” as well as for those who have loose skin or stretch marks below their belly button. 

Very often, patients who opt for a mini tummy tuck are those who are close to their ideal weight but cannot get rid of the remaining stubborn fat through diet and exercise alone. 

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck combines a full tummy tuck with the addition of improving a patient’s flanks. This procedure is suitable for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight are looking to refine the contours of their bodies. Patients who get this procedure may also benefit from liposuction, which is usually performed on their hips, love handles, and flanks during the tummy tuck procedure. Extended tummy tucks can also help strengthen and repair weak abdominal muscles. 

Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck procedure?

Almost anyone can receive a tummy tuck, and there are a variety of reasons why someone might be considering this procedure. You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if…

• There is extra skin on your abdomen due to pregnancy, aging, prior surgery, or sudden weight loss
• You have already lost weight through diet and exercise. (Tummy tucks are not recommended as weight loss options for those who are considered clinically obese.)
• You maintain a healthy and active lifestyle and remain from harmful activities like smoking or drug use. 
• You have a positive attitude and realistic expectations about the results. 

Be sure to talk with your board-certified surgeon to see if you are a good candidate for this procedure. We encourage you to ask your surgeon plenty of questions and find out if this procedure can help you achieve your goals. 

Want to learn more about the pros and cons of a tummy tuck procedure? Contact Dr. Finkel today!

Dr. Finkel believes that everyone deserves to look and feel great in their own skin. That’s why she is proud to offer tummy tuck procedures for those looking to achieve their ideal body. For some, this may mean regaining a more youthful appearance. For others, a tummy tuck may help reduce stretch marks, scars, or excess fat. Whatever your goal is, Dr. Finkel can help. 

We hope you have learned more about the pros and cons of a tummy tuck procedure. If you are considering a tummy tuck and want to schedule a consultation, feel free to call the office of Dr. Finkel at (480) 963-3034. You can also contact us online. We look forward to helping you explore all of your tummy tuck options!