Tummy Tuck: Fact vs. Fiction

Though tummy tuck surgery is one of the most popular body enhancement procedures performed, many people still have questions — and misconceptions — about it. Dr. Carlos Chacon of Divino Plastic Surgery in San Diego, CA, separates the fact from the fiction about this tummy flattening surgery.

Fact or Fiction: You Don’t Need Surgery for a Flat Stomach; Just Diet and Exercise

FICTION. To the frustration of many women (as well as men), no matter how much they restrict their calories or “feel the burn” in their favorite workout, they just can’t seem to lose that stubborn flabbiness on their mid-section. Loose, hanging tummy skin is common after pregnancy or significant weight loss. It can also be the result of aging and losing skin elasticity. The tummy tuck procedure will remove this excess skin, tighten the underlying abdominal muscles and re-drape the overlying skin so that it’s taut and ready to flaunt.

Fact or Fiction: Ideal Candidates for Tummy Tuck Surgery are Obese

FICTION. Tummy tuck surgery is not considered weight loss surgery, nor is it used to remove a large amount of fat from the abdomen. Ideal candidates for this surgery are at or near their goal weight, but have a stomach “pooch” and/or loose, sagging skin on their stomach due to past pregnancy, weight loss, aging or simply their genetics. Not only does obesity heighten the risk of complications during and after tummy tuck surgery, it also affects a patient’s chances of achieving positive results. Patients that fall within a healthy weight range generally achieve better aesthetic results. If you are significantly overweight or obese and are considering tummy tuck surgery, we recommend that you reach a healthy weight first, and maintain it for at least six months, before having the procedure.

Fact or Fiction: Tummy Tucks are Just for Women

FICTION. The latest statistics released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons revealed that in 2014 alone, over 110,000 men underwent tummy tuck surgery. The number of male tummy tuck patients has seen a gradual, but consistent, uptick in recent years. Men may not have to worry about the effects of pregnancy on their body, but they are still susceptible to the effect that aging, genetics and weight fluctuations have on their once-firm stomach.

Fact or Fiction: A Tummy Tuck Can Be Combined with Another Procedure

FACT. For women who want to get back to their pre-pregnancy body, Divino Plastic Surgery offers the mommy makeover procedure, which is a combination of two or more body contouring procedures (including a tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck procedure). Other surgeries that can be included in this combination procedure include breast augmentation, breast lift and liposuction.

Want to Learn More about Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Find out if you’re a candidate for tummy tuck surgery, and, if so, what your surgery options are, during a personal consultation with Dr. Carlos Chacon of Divino Plastic Surgery. Call us today at (858) 633-7546.