Are you considering undergoing abdominoplasty? If so, you should learn more about it and the benefits that come with the procedure. An abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is one of the most common cosmetic procedures. It aims to remove excess skin and tighten abdominal muscles, flattening the abdominal area. 

People usually undergo a tummy tuck after losing significant weight or following pregnancy. They do so to remove excess skin and abdominal creases. Most people undergo the procedure for cosmetic reasons. That said, it has many other surprising benefits.

Health Benefits

Researchers associate losing 5-10 percent or more of excess weight with a reduced risk of chronic disease. So, can a tummy tuck provide the same benefits? The primary aim of this procedure is to remove excess skin, not fat. While your cosmetic surgeon may remove some fat, a tummy tuck is a body-contouring surgery, not a fat-loss procedure. That said, an abdominoplasty can provide you with the following health benefits:

May Reduce Your Back Pain

After significant weight loss or pregnancy, your abdominal muscles may become weaker or separate. A cosmetic surgeon can restore separated or weakened abdominal muscles, strengthening your core to offer more back support. A recent study found that patients who underwent an abdominoplasty experienced significant improvements in back pain within six weeks to six months following surgery. 

Improved Posture

Tightening your abdominal muscles helps strengthen your core, stabilizing your spine. According to one study, a stable spine can help reposition your pelvis and keep your back straight, improving your posture over time.

May Reduce Urinary Incontinence

A bladder-control problem known as stress urinary incontinence can cause involuntary urine leakage when you laugh, sneeze, or cough. An abdominoplasty can do the following:

·      Suspend your urethra.

·      Lift tissue from your pelvic area.

·      Slightly block your bladder to minimize leakage.

May Correct Ventral Hernia

Weakened abdominal muscles from massive weight loss or C-sections increase the risk of developing a visible bulge beneath your abdominal skin, known as a ventral hernia. It can form when abdominal or intestinal tissue penetrates your weakened abdominal wall. In many cases, a gap between the abdominal muscles causes abdomen protrusion. A tummy tuck can correct this problem, restoring a flatter stomach. 

Following hernia surgery, an abdominoplasty can help in the following ways:

·      Prevent recurring hernias.

·      Relieve skin pressure from the ventral hernia.

·      Strengthen weak abdominal muscles.

So, you can wear a belt, stretch, or bend again without experiencing discomfort or pain from a hernia. 

Improved Self-esteem and Confidence

Most people undergo an abdominoplasty to improve the appearance of their bellies. Research shows that recipients often feel better about their appearance after the procedure.

Healthier Skin

Loose belly skin can cause infection or irritation. This cosmetic procedure is healthy for your abdominal skin in several ways. It eliminates difficult-to-clean skin folds, prevents infections, and alleviates rashes and chafing.

Do you want to get a tummy tuck? If so, consult a board-certified cosmetic surgeon. He/she will help you determine whether you are a candidate for the procedure and the benefits to expect.

For more on abdominoplasties, visit Alan Matarasso, MD, FACS, PC, at our office in New York, New York. Call 212-249-7500 to book an appointment today.