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Important Non-Cosmetic Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Mostly associated with “mommy makeovers,” a tummy tuck surgery allows women to restore their figures after pregnancy. Abdominoplasty is also used to help patients that have undergone extreme weight loss in a short period of time.

Between 2000 and 2014 the number of tummy tuck surgeries rose an impressive 87 percent, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Many procedures were, no doubt, for cosmetic reasons, but there are several medical benefits to be gained after the procedure.

Reduction of Stress Urinary Incontinence Due to Tummy Tucks

After a vaginal birth, some women can develop Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI), a bladder control problem associated with uncontrollable leakage brought on by coughing, sneezing, exercising or even laughing.

In most cases, SUI is treated without surgery. For patients who require more care, several studies have indicated that a tummy tuck can aid in recovery especially in patients that have not had a caesarian section. During the tummy tuck surgery, a slight bladder obstruction is created using soft tissue near the pelvic area, thereby reducing incontinence.

Improved Abdominal Tone and Better Posture Due to Tummy Tuck

After extreme weight loss or multiple pregnancies, stomach muscles can become distended, and diet and exercise alone cannot help. A tummy tuck surgically tightens weak muscles, while removing excess skin and fat, to flatten the abdomen.

Weak abdominal muscles are often associated with lordosis, or sway back. After an abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, patients may notice that their posture has improved significantly, thanks to the tightened muscles supporting their spine. The improved support and better posture can have the added benefit of relieving certain types of back pain.

Weighing the Risks vs. Rewards of Tummy Tuck Surgery

Due to its growing popularity, many people believe that a tummy tuck surgery is an easy procedure. It’s important for patients to realize that it is still a major operation, requiring one to five hours in the operating room, under general anesthesia.

A typical abdominoplasty removes up to 10 pounds of stomach fat by disconnecting the skin from the underlying tissue, suturing abdominal tissue, and cutting away any extra skin. A full recovery can take several weeks, and just like any other surgery, there are risks of infection and other complications.

That said, the various medical and cosmetic benefits of a tummy tuck make the procedure appealing for many people. Want to know more? You can also schedule a consultation with Dr. Rotatori to determine whether a tummy tuck is right for you.

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