Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Many people find that despite regular exercise and a healthy diet, they can hardly ever get the body shapes they desire. You can get a tummy tuck if you want to get rid of excess skin and fat around your belly. 

 

The procedure can help improve the way you look and feel. Abdominoplasty can help you achieve your ideal body shape, but it is not for everyone. Find out more below about who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck. 

 

Good Overall Health

You should be in good health to be a good candidate for a tummy tuck or any other type of surgery. The procedure may be low-risk, but you should not have underlying health issues. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and patients should have healthy lungs and a healthy heart. 

There are medical disorders that can cause severe complications during the healing. If you have a skin disorder or scar easily, talk to the surgeon about your suitability.

 

Loose Abdominal Skin

You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you have loose skin around your tummy. Excess or loose skin may be due to losing a significant amount of weight. It may also be due to the natural aging process or because of pregnancy and delivery. 

During a tummy tuck, the surgeon will create an incision in the area. Having excess skin can help prevent tension or stretching around the scar. 

Stubborn Abdominal Fat

If you have been exercising diligently but seem to have reached a plateau, you may benefit from a tummy tuck. If getting rid of the last few pounds seems impossible to lose even with an active lifestyle, surgery can help. 

Most people agree that getting rid of abdominal fat can be frustrating. It is especially the case when genetics is involved. A tummy tuck will help you achieve your ideal weight and body shape. 

Post-Pregnancy Body

Pregnancy and the surging hormones usually alter the body quite drastically. The weight gain can change the size and shape of the breasts, belly, and hips. Most women find it hard to get back to their pre-pregnancy body naturally. 

Women who have given birth are good candidates for a tummy tuck to eliminate the pregnancy pouch. Wait for several months before getting the procedure. Wait until after you are done having children before getting a tummy tuck.

You Have Lost a Lot of Weight

Obesity or pregnancy can damage the abdominal muscles and stretch the skin around the abdomen. If you have lost a lot of weight, the sagging tissues can leave you feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious about your body. The tissue around the stomach can become permanently damaged, something that diet and exercise cannot repair. A tummy tuck can help sculpt the body, improving its appearance. 

To be a good candidate for a tummy tuck, you should have realistic expectations about the procedure. The surgery can significantly alter your appearance, but it is not a weight loss treatment. Ideal candidates are people within 20 percent of their ideal weight. 

You should be ready for the long recovery since the results will appear gradually as you heal. You might have to wait several months to see the final desired results. 

To see if you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck, contact Dr. Andrew Friedman at our San Antonio, Texas office. Call (210) 934-8400 to schedule a consultation today.