The tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, has been one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries for decades. Flat stomachs have been one of the most desired physical attributes in our society for a long time, and for those who have gained and lost large amounts of weight, sometimes an abdominoplasty is the only way to achieve that flat stomach without the extra loose skin.
Tummy tucks are commonly sought out by women who have given birth and are done having children. Pregnancy and childbirth takes a large toll on the body, especially the abdominal muscles. For some women, no amount of exercise or diet can return their stomach to its pre-baby state, especially if the abdominal muscles were separated during pregnancy and childbirth.
A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, so those interested in the procedure should create a healthy lifestyle complete with diet and exercise to achieve their weight-loss goals. Then, the tummy tuck can be used to sculpt the abdominal region and repair separated abdominal muscles.
A new study is showing that the results of a tummy tuck don’t stop with physical appearance. The study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery revealed that tummy tucks can also help with back pain and incontinence, both very common problems after childbirth.
The study followed 214 women who had tummy tucks that included repairs of the abdominal muscles. Six weeks after the procedure, only 9 percent of the women still had back pain and 2 percent still had incontinence problems.
Researchers believe the improvement in these two problems could be the result of repairing the abdominal muscles and in turn strengthening the abdomen and pelvic area. They’re hopeful that with some more research, insurance companies may begin to see tummy tucks as functional and not just aesthetic.
If you’re interested in learning more about tummy tucks or would like to schedule a consultation, call us today at the Cosmetic Surgical Arts Center in Lynnwood at 425-744-7771.