Some changes to your body just don’t go away. You eat well. You exercise. You do everything right. Your belly, though, still isn’t quite the way you want it.
That’s when people start wondering if there’s another option. And sometimes, there is.
What does a Tummy Tuck Actually Do?
Extra fat and skin from your abdomen are removed with a tummy tuck. Additionally, it tightens the underlying muscles. It has nothing to do with weight loss.
It is about correcting issues that won’t go away by themselves, even when you are already at a healthy weight. No amount of exercise will take care of excess skin.
Signs It Might Be Right for You
After Having Kids
Your body changes when you are pregnant; that’s just a natural part of the process. Some of the changes, nevertheless, might stick:
- Loose skin that stays no matter what you do; It may look like an apron folding over your pubic area.
- Your abdominal muscles separated (a condition known as diastasis) and did not return to their original position
- Your belly still looks pregnant, even though you’re not
- You may have a lot of stretchmarks
After Losing a Lot of Weight
Losing weight is hard work. You should feel proud. But sometimes your skin shrink with the weight loss:
- Extra skin hanging around your mid section
- A lower belly that sags despite being fit
- Skin that’s too stretched to tighten naturally
As You Get Older
Bodies change with time. That’s normal:
- Your midsection feels softer than before
- Your skin isn’t as firm as it used to be
- You’re in good shape but your body doesn’t show it
When Your Weight Is Steady
This part matters a lot. A tummy tuck works best when:
- Your weight has stayed the same for six months or more
- You’re close to where you want to be
- You plan to keep your weight stable
Things to Think About
Your Health Comes First
Before you decide, consider if you:
- Are you healthy overall; even if you have medical conditions you may still be a candidate for surgery.
- Don’t smoke or can stop
- Know what to expect realistically
- Understand what recovery involves
Recovery Is Real
This takes time. You’ll need to:
- Stay home from work for a 7-10 days at least
- No lifting more than 15 pounds for 6 weeks
- Have someone help you at home
- Follow all the aftercare instructions
It’s Your Choice
Nobody else can decide this for you. Think about:
- If you’re done having children. (Even if you want to get pregnant later, a Tummy Tuck may still be an option for you now. Discuss it with your surgeon. Have a conversation us at Victorian Body Surgical Arts.)
- Whether you have help during recovery
- How you feel emotionally about surgery
- What you’re hoping to achieve
Read more: Tummy Tuck FAQs
Making Your Decision
A tummy tuck can really make a difference. But it’s not something to rush. Take your time. Ask questions. Make sure what you want matches what the procedure actually does.
The people who are happiest with their results understand what this is about.
It won’t make you lose weight. But if you’ve already done the hard work and still have concerns that won’t go away, it might help.
Related: Is Body Contouring Permanent or Will I Need Touch-Ups?
Next Steps
Wondering if a tummy tuck is appropriate for you? Victorian Body Surgical Arts can answer any questions you have and assist you in deciding what suits your condition.
Schedule a meeting to review your goals and receive honest advice.
It begins with a brief conversation.
FAQs
How long does recovery take?
Everyone is different but most people take 7-10 days before going back to work. Returning to everything you normally do takes a little longer, maybe few weeks.
Will I have a scar?
Yes, you will. It goes along your lower belly, but it’s low enough that your underwear or bathing suit covers it. It gets lighter as time goes on.
Can I get one if I want more kids?
That decision is individualized. Call us and let’s make that decision together.
Is it painful?
There’s definitely discomfort after, but you get pain meds to help. Most people say it’s not as bad as they thought and totally worth it.
