Cosmetic surgeries like tummy tuck or abdominoplasty are often viewed by people from only a superficial lens. “Oh! They just want to appear thinner,” “They are getting the surgery to make them look more aesthetically pleasing,” etc. are common remarks you will hear in the passing.
While it is true that a tummy tuck surgery enhances the physical appearance, what we often don’t realize is its impact on overall health. The procedure not only helps achieve a flatter abdomen but also fosters various surprising health benefits.
We will highlight and discuss more about the health benefits of a tummy tuck that you probably weren’t aware of.
1. It improves posture and core strength
Besides tightening the skin and appearance of the abdomen, a tummy tuck also addresses concerns about the weakened abdominal muscles. As these muscles are strengthened, they can significantly contribute to better posture.
Weakened abdominal muscles, often a result of pregnancy or significant weight loss, can lead to a forward-leaning posture and back pain. Tummy tuck rectifies that and strengthens the core, resulting in an individual having a more upright posture, thereby reducing the strain on the spine.
2. It is an effective resolution for Ventral Hernias
Ventral hernias are characterized by the protrusion of the abdominal tissue through the weakened abdominal wall. The condition, albeit its slow progression, can affect one’s quality of life. The tummy tuck procedure addresses and resolves this complication, too.
During the surgery, the surgeon repairs the abdominal wall, reinforcing it with sutures. This enhances the cosmetic outcome and addresses underlying health issues, such as ventral hernias. Hernias often contribute to pain and discomfort, affecting the patient’s quality of life. Tummy tuck effectively alleviates those complications.
3. It alleviates back pain
Having a pudge due to excess skin and fat around the lower abdominal region is a leading reason behind poor posture.
Tummy tuck effectively removes those extra triggers from the patient’s body while tightening and strengthening the core abdominal muscles, thereby reducing the strain on their back and spine. This eventually reduces the pain and discomfort often inflicted around the lower back region.
4. It enhances overall mental well-being
When talking about the “health” benefits of tummy tuck surgery, we have to prioritize the mental health impacts, too. Not only does the procedure elevate the physical attributes, but it also has equally excellent mental health benefits.
A tummy tuck procedure contributes positively to an individual’s self-esteem and body image. The removal of the excess skin and fat provides the patient with a more toned and proportionate physique, which, in turn, instills a sense of confidence and satisfaction in their minds.
5. It reduces complaints of skin infections and irritation
Among all the underrated health benefits of a tummy tuck surgery, this must be the most bizarre and overlooked. When you have lost a drastic amount of weight and are left with loose skin around the abdominal region, the folds and crevices often become breeding grounds for microbes, leading to skin infection and irritation.
A tummy tuck addresses this concern by removing the surplus skin and creating a smoother, tighter abdominal contour. This improves the aesthetic appearance and reduces the risk of skin-related problems.
6. It promotes and paves the way for long-term weight maintenance
Let us preface this by saying that a tummy tuck is not equivalent to other bariatric surgeries. It is not meant for weight loss. However, the results from the tummy tuck procedure directly contribute to long-term weight maintenance.
Individuals who undergo surgery often experience a renewed commitment to a healthy lifestyle, which involves partaking in leading an active lifestyle and eating a balanced diet, which has direct impacts in helping them maintain their weight and not gain excess weight down the line. Also, the elimination of excess skin and fat makes individuals more comfortable and confident with physical activity down the line.
7. It helps with the correction of Diastasis Recti
Diastasis recti is a common complication that occurs after pregnancy. The condition is characterized by the separation of the abdominal muscles. Initially, fixes like exercise and physical therapy are advised to the patient. However, in some cases, these aren’t enough to correct the complication.
Hence, a tummy tuck helps because the surgery involves repairing and tightening the abdominal muscles, thereby addressing the separation and restoring their normal alignment. This, in turn, restores the functional integrity of the abdominal wall in the patient and reduces the risks of complications down the road.
Conclusion
The benefits of tummy tuck surgery are extensive and go beyond just aesthetic improvements. From physical to psychological benefits, the surgery is beneficial in managing many factors that many patients weren’t even aware of in the first place.
If you are considering undergoing a tummy tuck surgery, trusting experienced and leading cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Anshu Mishra is essential. For more details, schedule a consultation today!
