What are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?

Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

After massive weight loss, patients often struggle with stubborn fat deposits and stretched, drooping skin. By removing this excess skin and fat, and tightening remaining tissue, a tummy tuck can create a flatter, more toned appearance.

A tummy tuck can benefit women who have given birth, since pregnancy can stretch the skin and separate the abdominal muscles. Skin elasticity and muscle tone can significantly decrease, especially after multiple pregnancies.

Aging can play a major role in the accumulation of fat in the midsection. As we get older, we lose the skin elasticity in our stomach area and our stomach muscles weaken, sometimes resulting in a sagging, flabby midsection. Additionally, our bodies can be predisposed to fat accumulation in certain areas, often in the midsection, based on genetics.

A tummy tuck can:

• Enhance definition of the waistline

• Remove excess skin and tissue

• Tighten abdominal muscles

• Provide improved confidence

• Result in minimal scarring

• Provide long-lasting results

Tummy Tuck Procedure

In order to fully understand the benefits of a tummy tuck, it is important to understand the techniques Dr. Potter uses to refine the midsection. There are several different procedure types available and he will review the options with you at your initial consultation.

During a traditional tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Potter will create an incision in your lower abdomen that stretches from hip to hip. Depending on your goals, you may only need to undergo a mini tummy tuck. This procedure is less extensive than a traditional tummy tuck, and requires a smaller incision. An extended tummy tuck is often recommended to patients who have lost a massive amount of weight. The treatment area reaches past the hips to the flanks, or "love handles," for more comprehensive results.

Once the incision is made, Dr. Potter will remove excess fat and skin from the stomach. He may also perform liposuction to help contour your midsection. Next, he will tighten the abdominal muscles and suture them into place. Finally, he will close the incision with stitches, using advanced surgical techniques to minimize scarring.

Tummy tuck recovery can take several weeks, depending on the extent of treatment. Dr. Potter will provide you with specific instructions to ensure a safe recovery resulting in long-term benefits.

Who is a Good Candidate?

In addition to being in good overall health, patients who are considering a tummy tuck should have realistic expectations of the surgery, and plan to maintain the results through a healthy diet and regular exercise.

It is important for patients to understand that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. Instead, it is intended to complement weight loss. For this reason, patients should already be close to their goal weight, or within 20 to 30 pounds before undergoing a tummy tuck.

Contact Us Today

Dr. Potter is a leading provider of cosmetic surgery. If you are ready for a tighter tummy and improved self-confidence, contact us today to learn more about the many benefits of a tummy tuck.