Tummy tuck also referred to as abdominoplasty, is one of the more common cosmetic procedures available. Most people have this procedure for cosmetic reasons, typically to address excess fat and skin in the abdominal region. In this article, we’re going to examine what exactly a tummy tuck is and whether it may be performed for medical reasons.
How is a tummy tuck performed?
During abdominoplasty surgery, plastic surgeons focus on removing excess skin and fat from the belly areas. Loosened abdominal muscles are also usually tightened to reveal a firmer and flatter contour. Liposuctions may sometimes be included to achieve the desired outcome. The specific technique to be used during the surgery will depend on each patient’s specific needs. Plastic surgeons may perform a minimal mini-tummy tuck to address a lower abdomen ‘pooch’, a standard abdominoplasty to enhance both the lower and upper abdomen, or a circumferential tummy tuck to contour the entire midsection area.
Medical reasons to have a tummy tuck
While the majority of tummy tucks are conducted for medical reasons, Baton Rouge patients may also receive this treatment to address specific medical concerns:
- Incontinence – stress urinary incontinence refers to the leakage of urine often triggered by movement or activities such as laughing, coughing, sneezing, heavy lifting, or coughing. This condition usually affects women of advanced age who’ve had children through vaginal delivery. However, it may affect anyone, including men. Studies have shown that removing excess fat and skin, as well as tightening the abdominal muscles through a tummy tuck can improve this condition.
- Hernia – a hernia is a weak spot that appears in the muscle wall and allows the bowels or intestines to protrude. This condition typically occurs due to immense weakening and stretching of the abdominal muscles (common during pregnancy and childbirth). Weight fluctuations may also result in a hernia. Through a tummy tuck, plastic surgeons are able to tighten and reinforce the abdominal muscles, thus safely addressing the weak spot.
- Back problems – weak belly muscles are a known cause of back pain and other issues. When the core is weak and unable to support the belly and other structures, it often compensates with poor posture. This often leads to pains, aches, and functional nuisances. During a tummy tuck, plastic surgeons can tighten and strengthen the abdominal muscles while also removing excess skin and fat from the area. This effectively restores mobility and improves back pain and poor posture.
Does health insurance pay for abdominoplasty?
While abdominoplasty may be performed for medical reasons, it is usually not covered by health insurance. Some associated procedures – such as a panniculectomy – may however be covered under certain circumstances. A panniculectomy removes excess skin and fat referred to as a ‘pannus’ or apron following excess weight loss.
Can a tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?
Plastic surgeons may combine abdominoplasty with other procedures to suit the needs of different patients. For instance, women who have been through pregnancy and childbearing often have a mommy makeover. This comprehensive treatment combines abdominoplasty with other procedures such as breast augmentation and liposuction. Combining different procedures is advantageous in that it can help reduce costs and merge the recovery process.
Is a tummy tuck for me?
If you have thought about having a tummy tuck for medical reasons, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ruston Sanchez. The surgeon will listen to your concerns, examine your problem areas, then discuss your suitability for this technique. Qualified patients for this treatment usually attain both medical and aesthetic benefits. This means that in addition to addressing the medical concern, you’ll also be able to benefit from a well-contoured abdomen.