The tummy tuck is one of our most popular procedures, offering patients a flatter tummy and improved confidence. Our post-baby moms love this procedure for its ability to restore the body after pregnancy. Our weight loss patients are delighted to shed extra skin and reveal the body they’ve worked so hard to achieve.
When it comes to tummy tuck benefits, a flat tummy is just the start. In addition to the many cosmetic benefits of abdominoplasty, this procedure provides medical benefits too. Discover four surprising medical benefits of tummy tuck surgery.
Improved Posture
You’ve always heard that you should “stand up straight,” but putting that advice into practice isn’t always easy. If you’re struggling to maintain good posture, it may not be your fault. Your slouchy shoulders may be caused by weak abdominal muscles. When the core is weak, good posture can be difficult.
A tummy tuck tightens abdominal muscles, providing additional strength and stability to the central part of the body and spinal column. For many patients, this results in an improvement in their posture.
Less Back Pain
For some, back pain is seen as an inevitable part of getting older. It is a common problem with many causes. While abdominoplasty cannot fix all of the causes of back pain, it can address a common cause – the separation of the abdominal muscles in the abdominal wall. Pregnancy, weight gain, and aging can weaken and separate the paired abdominal muscles. As these muscles weaken, the core is unable to properly support the back and discomfort can develop. Repairing the abdominal muscles through a tummy tuck can provide significant relief from back pain for many patients.
In fact, one recent study found that abdominoplasty significantly improved back pain symptoms in post-pregnancy patients. At six months post-surgery, only 9% of patients in this study were still experiencing moderate disability from back pain.
Fewer Bathroom Accidents
Laughter should be a joyful experience, but for many women, it can be unpleasant. if you’re suffering from stress urinary incontinence, an unexpected laugh often means leaking urine. Could a tummy tuck help?
One of the most surprising medical benefits of abdominoplasty is its ability to reduce stress urinary incontinence (SUI) symptoms. How does a tummy tuck reduce urinary leakage? Tightening the core and pelvic tissues can relieve strain on the bladder. Additionally, some surgeons will change the structure of the abdomen during the surgery such that it better supports the bladder, keeping urine where it should be.
If you have SUI and are preparing for a tummy tuck, let your surgeon know so they can use specialized surgical techniques to reduce your symptoms as much as possible. Say goodbye to unwanted leaks.
Hernia Repair and Prevention
A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Likewise, your abdominal wall is only as strong as its weakest point. If you have weak spots, you’re much more likely to get a hernia.
What is a hernia? This uncomfortable condition occurs when a portion of an organ, such as the intestines, pushes through a weak spot in the muscle or connective tissue. Hernias are uncomfortable and unsightly. If left untreated, they often continue to grow and can become more severe. At worst, the protruding tissue may be cut off from proper blood supply delivering oxygen and nutrients, causing infection or tissue death. Untreated hernias can become a serious medical emergency.
By strengthening the abdominal wall, a tummy tuck can prevent and treat many types of hernias. Your surgeon may even use a surgical mesh to reinforce the abdominal muscles to hold in your organs. Once you’ve had your tummy tuck, you likely won’t have to worry about developing hernias in the future.
What benefits will you experience after tummy tuck surgery? Come in for a consultation to learn about the many cosmetic and medical benefits of this procedure. Call us at 847-205-1680 to schedule your consultation at MAE Plastic Surgery.
