A tummy tuck is a common cosmetic surgery that helps patients achieve a flatter, smoother, and more firm abdomen area by reducing excess skin.
It’s pretty regular for both men and women to have excess skin in their tummy area. The excess of skin is typically due to significant weight loss or having children. The problem with the skin is that it has lost its elasticity, so even when you have done the work to lose weight or get back your pre-pregnancy body, the result may not be what you expected. Thankfully, tummy tuck procedures are safe, effective, and many cosmetic surgeons are highly familiar with this practice.
So, you may be wondering, “Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?” There are plenty of factors that both you and your doctor will need to consider, so let’s take a closer look.
There are five critical requirements that you will need to meet.
- Looking to Address the Excess Skin
First and foremost, a tummy tuck is not a fat removal surgery. While it will give you the appearance of a smaller waist or more muscular abdominal muscles, the purpose of this surgery is skin removal rather than fat. If you’re interested in fat removal, speak with your doctor about liposuction or similar procedures.
- You Are Within Your Weight Goals and Will Not Be Losing More Weight
One of the unique requirements with a tummy tuck is that you’re not planning to lose even more weight after the procedure. While you might lose a few pounds because you will lose excess skin, you will want to maintain the weight after the procedure. If you lose more weight, you can run the risk of leaving more excess skin and sagging muscles around your stomach,
- You Won’t Be Getting Pregnant Again
Pregnancy can re-stretch the skin around your belly, which will ultimately negate the results of your tummy tuck. While getting pregnant after this procedure does not put you or the baby at risk, mothers should evaluate if they are done having children before they undergo surgery.
- You’re in Good Health and a Non-Smoker
As with any medical procedure, a surgeon will only operate on you if you are in good health and have no underlying medical conditions that could complicate the surgery. You may not be a good candidate if you have an unhealthy heart or lungs or a particular autoimmune disorder or connective disorder.
You must also be a non-smoker or be willing to stop smoking for a few weeks before the surgery and during your recovery time.
Vincent Surgical Arts & Medspa
If you’re interested in learning more about whether you’re a good candidate for a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation with one of our highly qualified doctors at Vincent Surgical Arts & Medspa. In our practice, we will take the time to understand your desired results and help you create a game plan that will get you there. If you’re ready to love your body again, contact us today to get started.
We are located in Cottonwood Heights, near Salt Lake City, Utah, and serve patients throughout northern Utah.