What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is also known as an abdominoplasty. Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure that treats sagging or damaged tissue in the abdominal region. During the procedure, Dr. Tenley Lawton strengthens underlying muscles and tightens lax skin to return the stomach region to its former appearance.

Many patients view tummy tucks as purely cosmetic procedures, like liposuction. However, their benefits go well beyond simple aesthetics. Abdominoplasty can give you a new lease on life, boosting your confidence and brightening your future.

Who is a Good Candidate for Abdominoplasty?

Many women believe that they can restore the appearance of their midsection after pregnancy by eating well and performing abdominal exercises. Unfortunately, that’s not always possible. As babies grow in the womb, they push against the abdominal muscles and can tear a piece of tissue called the fascia which holds abdominal muscles together. When this happens, the abs can become permanently separated and no amount of lifestyle change will return the abdomen to its pre-pregnancy state. Thus, previously pregnant women make excellent abdominoplasty candidates.

The same process can occur in people with a history of weight gain. Fat in the abdomen stretches and warps skin and muscle in the abdomen, preventing it from snapping back to normal, even after weight loss. Again, the only way to get a flatter, firmer stomach is to opt for a tummy tuck.

In summary, tummy tuck patients typically have the following characteristics:

• Loose skin around the belly, including skin that hangs below the waistline
• Lines and wrinkles around the belly button
• Stretch marks around the abdomen
• Damaged fascia causing irregularly-shaped muscles visible through the skin

Patients who see the best results are:

• A healthy, stable weight
• Nonsmokers in the run-up to surgery and during recovery
• Realistic about the results that a tummy tuck can achieve
• Willing to maintain results by following a healthy lifestyle

Both men and women can get abdominoplasties.