Want to tighten the area around your tummy? You’re not alone. Many people carry extra weight in their midsection. No matter how much they diet and exercise, it seems impossible to tone and define that region. Plastic surgery is often the only way to get the desired results. However, there is a lot of misinformation about the procedure.
Abdominoplasty, also called a Tummy Tuck, is a surgical procedure designed to remove loose skin and excess tissue. Patients notice immediate results following surgery, and many wish they had done it sooner. Even though abdominoplasty is one of the most popular reconstructive surgeries, many people don’t fully understand how it works. Here are the top myths and misconceptions patients have surrounding the procedure.
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You’re Too Old for Surgery
Putting off abdominoplasty because you think you’re past your prime? Contrary to popular belief, patients of all ages can benefit from surgery. As long as the patient is healthy, age alone won’t prevent a doctor from approving the procedure.
Many people choose to get abdominoplasty in their 40s, 50s, or even 60s. As people age, toning and targeting stomach muscles becomes more challenging. These patients are done having children and may be ready to improve their appearance. Consult with a plastic surgeon to learn if you’re an ideal candidate for the procedure.
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Tummy Tucks Are for Women
While it’s true that the majority of abdominoplasty patients are women, men can also benefit from the procedure. Both men and women may become self-conscious about sagging skin or excess fat. Loose skin is especially common if a man recently lost a lot of weight, and abdominoplasty can help.
How many guys get tummy tucks? It may surprise you to learn that abdominoplasty is one of the top plastic surgeries for men. Between 2000 to 2017, the number of abdominoplasties performed on men increased 12 percent. As plastic surgery continues to become accessible, this number is sure to rise even more.
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Abdominoplasty Is a Weight Loss Alternative
One of the most popular myths is that abdominoplasty will help you lose weight. If this were true, imagine how many people would schedule an appointment with a plastic surgeon! While tummy tucks do remove excess tissue, fat, and skin, they won’t help you shed those extra pounds.
Doctors recommend patients don’t consider abdominoplasty until they reach their desired weight. Obese patients should also try to maintain their weight loss before scheduling surgery. Abdominoplasty won’t help you lose weight, and it definitely won’t stop you from gaining it all back.
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Liposuction Is Always Required
Many people confuse liposuction with abdominoplasty. They are not the same procedure and are entirely different. If you want to undergo abdominoplasty, the doctor will require you to get liposuction. Plastic surgeons regularly perform abdominoplasties entirely independent of liposuction.
What’s the difference? As previously stated, abdominoplasty removes excess skin. On the other hand, liposuction removes unwanted fat deposits. The two procedures work well separately, but the surgeon may suggest you try them simultaneously, depending on your goals. However, the choice is always up to you.
Ready to Contour Your Stomach?
There are several reasons why a person may opt for abdominoplasty. Loose skin after weight loss, sagging muscles after pregnancy, and unkind genetics are some of the most common. No matter the reason, surgery may be the best way to finally have the toned, flat, and contoured stomach you’ve always wanted. Speak with a plastic surgeon to find out if this procedure is right for you.
