Tummy Tuck: Fact vs Fiction
As a leading plastic surgeon in Portland, Dr. Ronald V. DeMars has met with countless patients seeking the tummy tuck procedure for flatter, more toned abs. In this blog post, Dr. DeMars shares the truth behind the most common misconceptions about this body contouring procedure.
Fiction: Tummy tuck surgery is for weight loss.
Fact: Tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss. Rather, it is a body contouring procedure used to remove fat deposits and loose skin from the abdominal area that are unresponsive to diet and exercise. Tummy tuck surgery is commonly performed on bariatric (weight loss) surgery patients who have been left with loose, sagging skin that no longer fit the contours of the body.
Fiction: Tummy tuck surgery gets rid of fat for good.
Fact: Although the results of tummy tuck surgery are technically permanent, a patient’s appearance can be altered by significant future weight loss or weight gain. A large amount of weight gain can stretch the skin and separate the abdominal muscles, virtually reversing the effects of tummy tuck surgery. This is why Dr. DeMars recommends his patients pair a healthy diet with regular exercise in order to maintain their results.
Fiction: There is no way to hide tummy tuck scars.
Fact: All surgical procedures, including tummy tuck, leave some degree of scarring. However, a highly skilled plastic surgeon such as Dr. DeMars knows how to minimize and hide these tummy tuck scars. During tummy tuck surgery, the incision is placed just above the pubic line, from hipbone to hipbone. This incision is carefully placed low enough so they can be concealed by a bikini or panty line.
Fiction: You can’t get pregnant after tummy tuck.
Fact: Tummy tuck surgery does not affect a woman’s ability to become pregnant, nor does it present any danger to her or her baby. However, it’s highly recommended women undergo tummy tuck surgery only after they are finished having children. Weight fluctuations during and after pregnancy can affect the appearance of your tummy tuck surgery results.
Fiction: Tummy tucks are for women only.
Fact: Tummy tuck is a great option for men who desire toned, flat abs. The procedure eliminates drooping skin or fatty deposits around the abdomen for a firmer and more masculine appearance. Men who have lost a massive amount of weight from exercise and diet or bariatric surgery also benefit from the procedure.
Fiction: Liposuction is a good alternative to tummy tuck.
Fact: While liposuction can eliminate fatty deposits in the abdominal area, it cannot remove excess skin or tighten the abdominal muscles like tummy tuck surgery can. Often times, Dr. DeMars likes to incorporate liposuction into the tummy tuck procedure to remove excess fat around the stomach and waist for more beautiful results.
Fiction: Tummy tuck can correct stretch marks.
Fact: Tummy tuck surgery cannot correct stretch marks, but can remove them if they are located on excess skin that will be excised. This can dramatically improve the overall look of the abdomen.
To learn more about tummy tuck surgery or your other body contouring options, contact Portland plastic surgeon Dr. DeMars. Schedule a one-on-one consultation today by calling (503) 253-3458.
