It is common for people to carry extra fat around their midsections. At times, diet and exercise can help eliminate unwanted fat. However, for some patients, positive lifestyle choices are simply not enough to firm up this area. Life changes such as pregnancy and fluctuations in weight can contribute to stretchmarks and an overall flabby abdominal appearance, which can generate feelings of insecurity. Chicago plastic surgeon Dr. Dumamian believes patients deserve to look and feel great in their skin. He proudly offers abdominoplasty to significantly improve the appearance of the abdomen.
About Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty, also referred to as tummy tuck, is an ideal solution for achieving a flat tummy, especially in cases of resistant fat deposits near the abdomen. This procedure can repair abdominal muscles that have been weakened or stretched after pregnancy or childbirth, for example. It achieves this by removing unwanted fat in the abdomen and reducing skin for a tighter appearance. Most patients enjoy a slimmer midsection after surgery.
Can Abdominoplasty Help with Stretch Marks?
If you have lost a significant amount of weight, excess skin is often left behind on the abdomen, leaving a sagging appearance. This skin does not naturally snap back into place and surgery is required to remove it. Stretch marks can also begin to appear, which is the result of deep-level skin tears when the skin is not able to adjust to rapid changes in weight. Dr. Dumanian can remove this excess skin, some of which contains stretch marks. In other words, only stretch marks that are in the excised skin can be removed during tummy tuck surgery. Not every stretch mark can be removed with surgery. If stretch marks exist above the belly button, they are moved to near the underwear line so that they are easier to conceal.
Maintaining Your Results
A tummy tuck can help you look your best, but it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle if you want to preserve your improved appearance and minimize the risk of stretch marks. This may include exercise and consuming a healthy and balanced diet. It is also key to avoid weight fluctuation, if possible. Before tummy tuck surgery, patients may also be encouraged to consider their family planning goals, as pregnancy after tummy tuck surgery can compromise the results. It is often recommended that patients pursue tummy tuck surgery after completing their families to avoid this issue.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Dumanian is eager to help you achieve your cosmetic goals. To get started with your abdominoplasty consultation, contact our office today to set up an appointment.