Dealing with Every Day Medical Problems

Posted on: 22 January 2021

A tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure intended to transform the midsection to achieve a toned look. The procedure is commonly prescribed to women who have given birth and want to restore their bodies to pre-pregnancy figure. Women who have undergone rapid weight loss are also great candidates for a tummy tuck to eliminate the extra skin. That said, it is essential to understand what a tummy tuck procedure is all about because any misconceptions might derail your recovery process and expectations. This article explores common misconceptions regarding tummy tucks. 

Myth: It's a Weight Loss Procedure

Most patients believe that a tummy tuck is a procedure for losing excess weight. However, nothing could be further from the truth. The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck is someone who has already lost weight because the procedure eliminates the excess skin that comes with rapid weight loss. That said, a tummy tuck surgery will indeed address the excess fat around the abdominal region. It means that liposuction techniques can be part of a tummy tuck procedure, especially for individuals who struggle with stubborn fat zones. Since a tummy tuck surgery is a cosmetic rather than a weight loss procedure, do not expect any significant change on your scale. 

Myth: Tummy Tucks Are Only for Women

Abdominoplasty is the 4th most common cosmetic surgery among women in Australia. Therefore, most people assume that this procedure is only meant for women. It can be attributed to the increased need to address the irreversible changes to the midsection associated with pregnancy and childbirth, such as sagging skin. However, while women make up most abdominoplasty patients, it does not mean that men cannot or should not get a tummy tuck. In fact, men can benefit significantly from tummy tuck procedures immediately after significant weight loss. It helps them get rid of loose skin that often leaves men feeling self-conscious. Therefore, you do not have to worry about getting a tummy tuck if you are male since the results are the same regardless of gender. 

Myth: Tummy Tucks Leave Ugly Scars

Patients are often scared about scars when preparing for a major surgical procedure. Indeed, any incision made in the skin will leave behind a scar. However, a tummy tuck procedure will not leave you with an ugly scar, especially if you seek the services of a reputable surgeon. Surgeons today rely on advancements in surgical technology to make extremely thin incisions. Moreover, tummy tuck incisions are done below the bikini line, making them invisible even on a bare belly. If you have any questions about scars or other post-surgery results, you can talk to your surgeon until they resolve your concerns.