The medical benefits of a tummy tuck
Abdominoplasty – or a tummy tuck, as it is more commonly known – is a cosmetic
surgery procedure that tightens the muscles and removes loose skin and fat from the
abdomen so that it appears flat and toned.
Mostly associated with "mommy makeovers," a procedure that 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 2020, the number of tummy tuck procedures 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
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 procedure, a slight bladder
obstruction is created using soft tissue near the pelvic area, thereby reducing
incontinence.
Improved Abdominal Tone and Better Posture
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, 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.
Ventral Hernia Correction
A ventral hernia occurs when the intestine or abdominal tissue breaks through the
abdominal wall and forms a pocket or sack. There are several potential causes,
including abdominal weakness caused by massive weight loss or surgeries like C-
sections or appendectomies.
The underlying symptoms that require a ventral hernia correction are remarkably similar
to those for abdominoplasty. Both surgeries correct weakened adnominal muscles and
pressure on the skin. No matter the cause, whether pregnancy or weight, a weak
abdominal wall will allow a hernia to form.
Once you develop a ventral hernia, it is very easy for it to happen again. Often, your
surgeon will weigh the benefits of adding an abdominoplasty procedure to the hernia
repair to strengthen the abdominal wall and prevent future occurrences. Combining the
procedures is not only safe, but very practical, as it can reduce medical expenses and
recovery time.
