Will I Need a Tummy Tuck if I Lose a Lot of Weight?
It’s common for people who have lost a lot of weight to be left with loose, hanging abdominal skin. When excess skin gets in the way of seeing the full results of weight loss and impacts self-esteem, a tummy tuck can help smooth the stomach and reveal a more toned appearance.
While many people who have lost a lot of weight may benefit from a tummy tuck, undergoing a tummy tuck after extreme weight loss is a personal decision for our Little Rock, AR, Conway, AR, and Hot Springs, AR, patients. For answers to your questions about tummy tuck surgery after weight loss or to find out if you’re a good candidate, we welcome you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael A. Devlin.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure used to remove excess skin and fat from the stomach area to create a smoother, more streamlined appearance. It may also be used to tighten the stomach muscles to help strengthen the abdominal wall.
A tummy tuck may be combined with liposuction or other procedures to enhance the results and further sculpt the body.
Why Consider a Tummy Tuck After Significant Weight Loss?
Many people who have lost a significant amount of weight are left with loose skin, especially around the abdomen. Unfortunately, this type of loose skin can’t be eliminated through exercise or diet. Undergoing a tummy tuck after weight loss can remove this loose skin as well as tighten the abdominal muscles and enhance the appearance of the stomach.
A tummy tuck offers many benefits and is well worth considering if you have lost significant weight. Some reasons to consider a tummy after weight loss include:
- Smooths and flattens the abdomen to reveal a more toned and sculpted appearance
- Helps clothes fit better
- Helps reveal the full results of weight loss
- Tightens the underlying stomach muscles to strengthen weak muscles
- Eliminates hanging stomach skin to reduce the risk of rashes, infections, and other skin issues that can develop under hanging skin
- Improves confidence
- You’re unhappy with the appearance of loose, hanging abdominal skin
Candidates for Tummy Tucks
Tummy tucks are a great option for many people looking to enhance the results of their weight loss and improve the appearance of their abdomen. Candidates for tummy tuck surgery include:
- Those who have reached their weight loss goals or are within 15 pounds of their goal
- Those who are dedicated to maintaining their weight and understand that they can undo the results of their tummy tuck if they gain back their weight
- Those who are in good general health
- Those who don’t smoke or drink excessively
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Devlin
A tummy tuck can help smooth the stomach and eliminate loose, hanging skin after major weight loss. If you are unhappy with loose abdominal skin after weight loss, a tummy tuck may be right for you. For more information about tummy tuck surgery and to find out if you’re a candidate, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Devlin.