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Tummy Tuck

A flat and well-toned abdomen is something that many of us strive for through exercise and weight control. But regardless of effort, sometimes these methods cannot achieve our goals. Even individuals with otherwise normal body weight and portion can develop an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and sagging. The most common causes of this problem include heredity, multiple pregnancies, prior surgery, significant fluctuation in weight or congenital spine abnormalities that affect posture. If you desire a tighter, flatter abdomen, then a tummy tuck may be appropriate to help you achieve your goals.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a common term for the surgical procedure to correct a protruding or loose, sagging abdomen. The areas that can be treated include the center of the abdomen or may extend to the entire region between the lower rib cage and pubic bone, as well as to the sides and back. Abdominal contouring can be performed using a variety of techniques. When localized fat is the cause, abdominal contour surgery may be performed using only liposuction techniques. When excess fat is combined with loose, sagging skin and tissue, a tummy tuck removes unwanted fat, tissues and skin by excision. Abdominal muscles that have been weakened or separated, a condition called diastasis, can also be corrected with a tummy tuck. A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program. Although the results of a tummy tuck are usually permanent, the positive outcome can be greatly diminished by significant fluctuation in weight. For this reason, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies may be advised to postpone a tummy tuck.

Tummy tuck is best performed on adults of any age who are in good health, are close to the ideal weight for their body type and size, are moderately fit and, overall, have good muscle tone. Good candidates are:

* Healthy individuals who do not have a life threatening illness or medical conditions that can impede healing.
* Non-smokers
* Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for body contouring

 

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