Losing weight is such a challenge, and people who succeed are justifiably proud of their accomplishment. Weight loss is usually accompanied by healthy eating and an exercise routine, and these three together can leave you feeling great.
If you have lost a significant amount of weight, the only thing you may not feel great about is the lack of tone in your abdomen. It is typical for the muscles to be slack and the skin to hang in folds. You may find this visually unappealing, but it is also unhealthy.
- A protruding abdomen puts stress on your spine
- Additionally, skin folds cause irritation and discomfort
Tummy Tuck as a Solution
Perhaps the best solution for a protruding abdomen that is resistant to diet and exercise is the surgical procedure called a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty. This is the method of removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightening the muscles underneath.
Tummy tucks can help tighten abdominal muscles that have become slack due to multiple pregnancies, shape body types that have a naturally protruding abdomen, and restore a firmer line after significant weight loss.
What to Expect
During a tummy tuck, the doctor makes an incision along the lower abdomen and lifts the loose skin. The muscles are then tightened and the extra skin that is not needed is trimmed away. The remaining skin is pulled down to cover the abdomen and is sewn in place.
Recovery from a tummy tuck may take from a couple of weeks to a month. The incision is dressed, and small tubes may need to be placed to allow any fluid to drain while the incision heals. A compression bandage is usually worn to help the muscles and skin heal in the proper form, and there are restrictions on physical activity.
Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss
The best candidates for a tummy tuck are people who have reached their final, stable weight. Those who opt for the surgery with a clear understanding of the results will be most satisfied. It leaves only minimal scarring.
If you are near the end of your weight loss journey and are still unhappy with the profile of your abdomen, a tummy tuck may be your best option as a final step. It can help you feel better, look better, and have a new confidence about your body.