Why Do Women Get Tummy Tucks? The Answer May Surprise You

When many people hear the word "tummy tuck", they immediately think it has everything to do with vanity. Yet, this is not always the case. In fact, a large number of women get tummy tucks and other body-contouring procedures for reasons that have nothing to do with their physical appearance or the need to look like airbrushed models. New research shows that there are significant health benefits to tummy tuck operations and that tummy tucks are more than just about vanity.

Tummy Tucks May Help You Keep the Weight Off

Tummy tucks or abdominoplasty are common cosmetic surgical procedures that are chosen by thousands of women and men each and every year. They have become even more common in recent years, as more men and women choose bariatric surgery to help them lose weight and avoid the devastating health consequences of obesity. Many plastic surgeons even perform these procedures in tandem with other abdominal surgeries.

In the October 2014 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Swiss researchers found that bariatric patients who chose tummy tuck procedures after bariatric surgery were more likely to keep the weight off. According to Tripp Holton, assistant professor of plastic surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, "These surgeries can help a patient stay on track to lose more weight".

A study of 20 patients published in the February issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Their findings were that women and men who received a tummy tuck procedure after being overweight or obese were more likely to sustain the weight loss.

Tummy Tucks Influence a Healthy Lifestyle

When an individual loses more than 50 pounds, the excess skin can hang and sag. This can make it uncomfortable to exercise and thus keep the weight off. Tummy tuck procedures can make it more comfortable to take yoga, jog, and swim. This can directly lead to keeping the weight off and adopting a healthier lifestyle.

Tummy Tucks May Prevent Chronic Disease

In addition to keeping the weight off and adopting a healthy lifestyle, tummy tucks may also have health benefits. When individuals are no longer obese or overweight, they are able to keep their blood pressure, insulin levels, and cholesterol in check. Reports indicate that removing body fat can increase the levels of good fat (HDL) and this can reduce the risk of developing diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.

Tummy Tucks May Help Back Pain

When an individual is obese, they often complain of back pain and joint pain. Even when they lose the weight, excessive skin hanging on the abdomen can put unnecessary strain on back muscles. When that skin is removed and abdominal muscles are tightened, many individuals find relief from back pain they thought was chronic.

With so many reasons to choose a tummy tuck, especially after bariatric surgery, it is understandable why so many women—and men—have chosen to have this procedure done. Since 2000, the number of tummy tuck procedures in the United States has risen by 70% and more than 106,000 patients choose this procedure each and every year. Typically, tummy tucks can remove between 2-10 pounds of belly fat.

Contact Pasadena Plastic Surgeon Specialists

If you are considering a tummy tuck, it is important to choose a plastic surgeon carefully. Pasadena men and women continue to choose Dr. Kevin Ruhge to perform their tummy tuck surgeries because of the extraordinary care they receive. His personalized approach to plastic surgery means that his clients can contact him 24/7 after a surgical procedure.

If you would like to learn more about tummy tucks, liposuction, or any plastic surgery procedure, we invite you to meet with Dr. Ruhge for a private consultation at our office in Pasadena by calling 626.397.9095, or by scheduling an appointment online.