Your waistline is the same despite having a strict eating plan. You are a regular exerciser but still can’t lose those last few pounds around your midsection. You’ve lost all your pregnancy weight but still have a protruding belly. Does this sound familiar?
The abdomen is one of the most frustrating body areas for men and women alike, and even for those who lead a healthy life. This is because stubborn tissue and fat can often be found in the midsection, and abdominal muscles which are weak or separated are unable to repair themselves. Abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck surgery, is a popular procedure for body contouring that can give you the flat stomach that you’ve been working so hard to achieve.
Even if you’ve made up your mind that a tummy tuck is the best option to get a well-sculpted abdomen and meet your appearance goals, there are still certain things you need to consider to know whether you’re ready for this cosmetic procedure. For instance, think about the cost of a tummy tuck, and whether you’re emotionally and physically ready for this journey.
Below, we share a few signs you need to pay attention to, so you can figure out whether you’re ready for a tummy tuck procedure.
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You’re in Good Health
Your overall health should be the first thing on your list when considering any surgical procedure. Although a tummy tuck is a relatively safe cosmetic procedure, patients should consider any underlying medical conditions such as connective tissue disorders or autoimmune disorders, that could affect the healing process.
Abdominoplasty requires the patient to be under general anesthesia, so the patient’s heart, lungs, and blood vessels must also be in good health.
You’ve Reached Your Ideal Stable Weight
The tummy-tuck procedure is ideal for people who have lost significant weight, and have excess skin and abdominal muscles that are sagging. The skin of the abdomen is often stretched by pregnancy and obesity. This means that the gap between the abdominal muscles increases, so a tummy tuck can effectively repair this problem.
It’s important to be within 10-15 pounds of your goal weight before you undergo a tummy tuck procedure. However, significant weight loss after surgery can lead to additional loose skin or sagging in the abdomen. This will negatively impact the outcome of your surgery. Post-operative weight loss will also stretch and possibly re-separate abdominal muscles.
You’re Not Planning a Pregnancy
If you are considering a tummy tuck, planning for a pregnancy afterward is not recommended. This is because the results of a tummy tuck can be reversed or even made worse during pregnancy due to the stretching of the skin and muscles. If you’re considering undergoing a tummy tuck procedure, ensure you’re not planning to expand your family further. This way, you can enjoy your flat stomach as long as you like. The C-section marks can be removed with a tummy tuck, so waiting until after the final pregnancy is worth waiting.
You Have Loose Skin
Having loose skin in your midsection makes you a good candidate for a tummy tuck. Often people feel self-conscious wearing tight clothing or a bathing suit if they have loose or sagging midsection skin, and tummy tucks may be their only option if they’re looking for a flatter stomach.
Loose skin and sagging will only worsen over time, and non-invasive treatments to tighten the skin are not always effective. The tummy tuck involves removing excess skin, and then tightening it to achieve the desired contours.
You’re Mentally Prepared
Patients need to have realistic expectations before undergoing a tummy tuck procedure. While a tummy tuck can deliver fantastic results and has an incredible impact on a person’s self-esteem, it’s not weight loss surgery and it will not produce immediate results.
A tummy tuck, like any other cosmetic procedure, will give you a more sculpted, sleeker version of yourself, but you need to continue taking care of your body if you want to stay in shape. Make sure to research your procedure and ask your surgeon all the questions you may have. Remember that it’s essential to prepare mentally as well as physically.
You’re Ready for the Recovery Process
If you want to get the best results from your tummy tuck procedure, you’ll have to rest so you can heal completely. This can be challenging for many people, especially if they are caring for young children.
After the procedure, make sure you don’t lift or carry heavy things, and if you have small children, you must find somebody you trust to help you take care of them while you’re recovering.
Final Thoughts
A tummy tuck is a relatively extensive procedure that can transform your midsection area. It can be the best solution for both men and women who’re ready to get their bodies back and feel good once again.
The best way to know for sure whether a tummy tuck is right for you is to speak to a plastic surgeon, but the above qualifiers may also help you decide whether to pursue this cosmetic surgery.
