When Should You Consider a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

If you have loose or sagging belly skin that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise, you may have considered getting a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty). A tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) is a popular surgery that helps people get rid of stubborn, excess skin and achieve a flatter and more toned midsection.

Since a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure, it’s important to think about how your lifestyle and circumstances may affect your suitability. Things like your health, weight, and family goals can all have an impact on when you should or shouldn’t consider surgery. Let’s explore the things to consider when thinking about the best time to get a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty).

What is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Before you seek surgery, it’s important to understand what is involved. A tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty), also called abdominoplasty surgery, involves removing excess and sagging skin from around the abdomen. For some patients, it can also involve repairing and tightening weakened stomach muscles. If you’re concerned about loose abdominal skin due to weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing, the surgery can help you get a firmer and leaner appearance.

When to Consider Getting a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

When you’ve reached a healthy, stable weight

When it comes to tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery, the first thing to consider is your health and BMI. A tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) is not designed for weight loss. Instead, it removes loose, excess skin that has stretched and will no longer shrink back into shape after a person has lost a large amount of weight. This excess skin can cause a number of issues, both psychological and physical, and can significantly impact a person’s self-esteem. Exercising can be uncomfortable, and clothes might not fit right. Therefore, removal of the loose tissue can be the final step in your weight loss journey, helping you get a slimmer, toned appearance that cannot be achieved with merely diet and exercise.

You should bear in mind that weight fluctuations can have a negative impact on your results. To get optimal and long-lasting outcomes from surgery, it’s best to maintain a stable weight for several months beforehand.

When you’ve quit smoking

A tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) also comes along with an extensive recovery period. If you are not in good health, this can impair your body’s ability to heal and lead to complications down the road. Since smoking increases surgical risks, it is always advised that patients quit smoking for several months both before and after surgery.

When you’ve completed your family

It is common for women to seek tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery after pregnancy, to restore a slimmer abdomen and repair separated muscles (diastasis recti). However, before getting surgery, post-pregnancy mothers should consider whether they will have more children in the future. This is because future pregnancies can undo the results of the procedure, and further surgeries can increase the risks of complications.

You should wait until you are no longer planning to have more children before pursuing surgery. Also, mothers should wait until they are no longer breastfeeding before getting their tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty).

When you’ve discussed your health with a professional

It’s always a good idea to talk to a professional before going ahead with surgery. By speaking to a qualified plastic surgeon about your health, lifestyle, and general well-being, you can gain a clearer idea of whether the procedure will best serve your needs. He or she will also be able to give personalised and one-on-one guidance on how to prepare for the procedure so that you can achieve your surgical goals. For example, if you are taking certain blood-thinning medications that increase your risks, you may be advised to stop taking them in the lead-up to surgery.

Book Your Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Consultation with Dr Reddy

If you think a tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) might be the right procedure for you, it’s always best to discuss your needs with a qualified plastic surgeon such as Dr Reddy. Dr Reddy at The Plastic Surgery Clinic & Medispa provides exceptional and personalised care to patients and creates surgical plans to suit the individual. A personal consultation with Dr Reddy will help clarify your options and help you decide if you are ready for tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery. Visit our main tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure page, or contact us to book your private consultation.