A tummy tuck is a common procedure for removing excess skin in the abdomen for a tighter, flatter tummy. While tummy tucks are typically only performed for cosmetic reasons, that doesn’t mean the procedure can’t have some unintentional, positive side effects on your health. None of these should be reasons on their own to get a tummy tuck—as results and health benefits of a tummy tuck will vary from patient to patient. Instead, you can think of them as added bonuses, should you decide to get a tummy tuck.
1. A tummy tuck can be a great motivator for keeping your weight in check.
One of the most common reasons for an individual to have a tummy tuck is to improve their appearance after losing weight. After losing a significant amount of weight, you’ll likely be left with excess skin around your tummy. Because the skin doesn’t have any fat to support it anymore, it can sag and fold over itself. A tummy tuck will effectively remove all of that extra skin, leaving you with a flat, smooth tummy that complements your figure.
Just like with liposuction, a tummy tuck is not designed to help you lose weight, but it can help motivate you to keep it off after you’ve lost it. With your excess skin gone, you’ll be motivated to maintain a healthy lifestyle to make sure your great new look is here to stay.
2. A tummy tuck can help you improve your posture and reduce back pain.
Having a weak core (abdominal muscles) can be a contributing factor to lower back pain for many people. A full tummy tuck procedure involves tightening the abdomen muscles in addition to the skin. Tightening these muscles can function as a sort-of natural corset, improving your posture and helping to relieve some of the stress in your lower back.
Additionally, excess skin around your belly means that your body (particularly your back) is being forced to support unnecessary weight. Removing the extra skin through a tummy tuck can also potentially relieve some stress off of your back and lower body once you’re no longer carrying around the extra weight.
That being said, back pain shouldn’t be your reason for getting a tummy tuck. If you are suffering from chronic back pain, you should talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause. While a tummy tuck does have the potential to offer some pain relief, it may not be a permanent or complete solution.
3. A tummy tuck can increase your self-confidence, thus improving your mental health.
If the excess skin around your tummy area is causing you stress and affecting your self-confidence, a tummy tuck can help you feel better about the way you look. Through a personalized plastic surgery procedure, you can tighten and smooth your tummy to help you meet your aesthetic goals. When you feel confident and happy about the way you look, your positivity can have an impact on all aspects of your life
John Rosdeutscher, MD
Double board-certified plastic surgeon “Dr. R” has been voted Best of Music City #1 plastic surgeon 3+ years.
Mark Peters, MD
Board-certified Memphis plastic surgeon Dr. Peters has earned recognition for his work in skin tightening and cellulite reduction.
