Myths About Tummy Tuck Procedures | Biodermis.com

A tummy tuck, known clinically as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at removing fat (subcutaneous) tissue from the middle and lower abdomen. Fat removal in these areas allows the surgeon to contour the shape of the body to create a firmer, tighter waist and midsection. Tummy tucks are one of the most common cosmetic procedure types for women and men who desire a leaner physique. Since tummy tucks are so popular, there are a lot of misconceptions surrounding this surgical procedure. In this article, we will go over some of the more common myths regarding tummy tucks and why they are misleading.  

Tummy tucks are designed for weight loss

While a tummy tuck can help a person remove excess fat from their midsection, this procedure is not meant to be a substitute for healthy weight loss. In fact, tummy tucks are best suited to people who are at a normal weight but would like get rid of stubborn fat or sagging skin in the abdominal region. This procedure should compliment an already healthy lifestyle, otherwise the fat will come back if the patient does not take care of him or herself. Measuring your weight after a tummy tuck will not drastically lower the number you saw on the scale before the surgery. Because of this, it’s best to begin your weight loss journey months before your procedure and continue to exercise and eat healthy post-surgery.     

You don’t need a tummy tuck if you diet and exercise

This may sound confusing in light of the last point, but there are instances in which diet and exercise simply won’t be enough to reduce stubborn fat and sagging skin. This is especially true in cases where a patient has lost a bunch of weight. If a person loses excessive weight, they may be left with sagging skin around the midsection; all the diet and exercise in the world will not be able to get rid of the skin that has been stretched out due to weight gain. Similarly, a woman who has gone through pregnancy may find it difficult to get rid of fat that has accumulated around the midsection. This is because pregnancy can cause a weakening of the abdominal muscles, allowing fat cells to accumulate at the abdomen. These are cases in which tummy tucks can be helpful in targeting difficult areas in addition to diet and exercise.

Tummy tucks are only for women

Just like any cosmetic procedure, men and women are possible candidates for a tummy tuck. While it’s true that a majority of tummy tuck patients are women, more and more men are opting for this procedure as well. One reason that women are more likely to get a tummy tuck likely has to do with pregnancy causing irreversible changes to a woman’s abdomen. Mommy makeovers are popular procedures that include a tummy tuck in addition to a breast lift, breast augmentation, or breast reduction. While men are less likely to opt for a tummy tuck, they may do so for genetic or weight loss reasons that leave them with what is commonly referred to as a “dad bod.”  

You shouldn’t get a tummy tuck if you are too old

There is no perfect age to opt for a tummy tuck or any other cosmetic procedure. If you are otherwise healthy and have no underlying conditions, then you are a potential candidate for this surgery. Your surgeon will want to make sure that you are not a smoker, that you are within a reasonable weight range, and that you have realistic expectations about what tummy tucks can do before moving forward with the procedure. Keep in mind that, depending on your age, it may take a little longer to fully recover than a much younger patient.

Biodermis is an innovative market leader with 30 years of expertise in the medical silicone industry. Visit Biodermis.com today to explore a complete range of scar management and post-operative care solutions.
PHYSICIANS AND MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS: REFER OR RESELL?