Reasons Not to Get a Tummy Tuck

Tummy tucks are a pretty common procedure that many people think they need. There are a lot of reasons why someone might want to get a tummy tuck, but there are also reasons not to get one. The first thing you should know about getting an abdominoplasty is that it’s not for everyone. If you have no issues with your body and are happy with the way you look, there’s no reason for you to go under the knife. It’s important to remember that surgery comes with risks and potential complications, so it’s crucial to carefully weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Ultimately, the choice to get a tummy tuck should be a personal one based on your own desires and needs.

If you do want to get a tummy tuck, make sure that it’s because you want to feel more confident in your own skin and not because someone else told you that it would be good for your image.

Reasons Not To Get A Tummy Tuck

I called my belly “Donut” because I could wad up all my post-baby stomach skin into something that resembled one (sans sprinkles). Despite my healthy eating habits and gym visits, I could not get that belly bulge to budge, even as my youngest hit his fifth birthday. In fact, I found that the more I worked out, the worse my stomach looked: Losing weight elsewhere on my body only made my pooch more pronounced. Add to this some separated stomach muscles from three pregnancies, and I was pretty disheartened at how my midsection looked. All this came to a head one sunny day after an especially great few weeks at the gym, when a checkout girl asked me when I was due. So, I decided to look into a tummy tuck.

Awareness of Common Perceptions

While often considered a procedure for the rich and famous, tummy tucks (also known as abdominoplasties) are becoming increasingly common, with a whopping 431% increase in the number of procedures performed since 1997. Tummy tucks were the third most common cosmetic procedure performed in 2015, with more than 180,000 done nationwide. For those considering this route, it’s crucial to understand a few important points:

1. A Tummy Tuck Won’t Make You Drop Weight

Many patients mistakenly think a tummy tuck is a weight loss solution. Dr. Elliot Hirsch, a board-certified plastic surgeon, emphasizes that this procedure is primarily a contouring one. While minor weight loss may occur, the focus is not on shedding pounds but on reshaping the body.

2. Different Types of Scars

The type of tummy tuck you undergo will determine the size and location of your scars. A traditional tummy tuck results in a hip-to-hip scar, while a mini tummy tuck involves a smaller incision. Those with significant skin excess may end up with a more pronounced T-shaped scar. It’s imperative to understand these potential outcomes.

3. Significant Cost with Minimal Insurance Coverage

The average cost for a tummy tuck in 2015 was around $5,891, and it’s usually considered a cosmetic procedure, meaning that most insurance plans won’t cover it. Some exceptions exist for patients with hernias or medical issues related to excess skin.

4. Importance of Choosing the Right Surgeon

Not all surgeons are created equal. Identifying a qualified plastic surgeon requires research as the terms ‘plastic surgeon’ and ‘cosmetic surgeon’ are not interchangeable. Ensure your surgeon is recognized by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to mitigate risks and achieve the best results.

5. The Potential Addition of Liposuction

Surgeons often recommend combining liposuction with a tummy tuck to achieve more defined contours. While this can enhance results, it’s important to understand that liposuction adds further costs and associated risks.

6. Need for Post-Surgery Support

Most tummy tucks are outpatient procedures, requiring assistance at home for the first week or so. Be prepared to have help for daily tasks, as activities like rolling over, sitting up, and even lifting objects become challenging post-operation.

7. Bent-over Recovery Position

Your new body may lead to temporary mobility issues, as many patients find themselves bent over at the waist during recovery. This can lead to back pain and difficulty reaching for items placed on high shelves.

8. Realistic Expectations of Benefits

While many feel a renewed sense of confidence after their procedure, it’s crucial to recognize that tummy tucks can also lead to medical benefits such as improved core strength and potential alleviation of conditions like urinary incontinence.

9. Recognizing the Risks

A tummy tuck, albeit popular, carries inherent risks including infection, scarring, and rare occurrences of complications that could be serious. Awareness and thorough research into surgical practices can help mitigate some of these risks.

10. Evaluating the Overall Impact

Understanding how this procedure affects not only your physical appearance but also your day-to-day life is essential. Factors such as recovery time and physical limitations should be carefully considered before making a decision.

In summary, while the allure of a smoother, flatter stomach is enticing, prospective patients should weigh the benefits against the potential complications, costs, and lifestyle adjustments required post-surgery.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

During the initial six weeks following a tummy tuck procedure, it is crucial to exercise caution when moving around and to avoid any positions that may put strain on the incision line. This includes refraining from quickly bending at the waist, as this could potentially lead to the reopening of the wound. By following these precautions and taking it easy during the recovery period, you can help ensure a successful outcome and minimize the risk of complications. It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely to promote proper healing and achieve the desired results.

You’ll need to schedule regular follow-up visits. Ask your doctor how often you need to be seen.