A tummy tuck is a great way to flatten and tone your abdominal area, especially after childbirth. However, a tummy tuck will not help you lose weight. During a tummy tuck, fat is removed, but fat is very light and the amount removed is not significant enough to cause actual weight loss.
The best way to lose weight is through a good diet and making sure to get enough exercise. It can be hard, even impossible, to fully gain your pre-baby body back through diet and exercise alone, and this is where a tummy tuck comes in. Your loose abdominal muscles, excess skin, and stubborn fat can all be corrected through a tummy tuck. Keep in mind that you will get the best results if you are at a healthy, stable weight that you can maintain before you have your tummy tuck.
If you are interested in a tummy tuck, please contact Baltimore plastic surgeon Dr. Adam Basner by calling 410-616-3000 today.
Why Lose Weight Before a Tummy Tuck?
It may seem counterintuitive that you need to lose weight before a plastic surgery procedure designed to flatten your stomach and simulate the effects of weight loss. However, a tummy tuck is not a weight loss substitute. You will get much better results if you are able to shed most of your baby weight and commit to a healthy lifestyle before having plastic surgery performed.
Benefits of losing weight before a tummy tuck include:
- Your results will look better
- Surgery will be safer
- You will be healthier overall
- You will already be in the habit of eating better and exercising more, so it will be easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle after your tummy tuck
You don’t need to be exactly at your goal weight before having a tummy tuck, but the closer you can get the better your results will be. If you are unable to get close to your goal weight, you may want to consult a nutritionist or hire a personal trainer.
Can I Have a Tummy Tuck If I’m Overweight?
If you are significantly overweight and cannot seem to lose any weight, you may still be a candidate. You will need to discuss your medical history and lifestyle with Dr. Basner, and he will evaluate you to see if it is safe to perform a tummy tuck.
Sometimes, a tummy tuck can provide a great kick-start that enables patients to get the motivation they need to embark on a healthier lifestyle and lose weight on their own. Whether or not you are a good candidate is highly dependent on your unique circumstances, and must be evaluated in person.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
If you are interested in flattening and toning your stomach through a tummy tuck, call Dr. Basner today at 410-616-3000 to schedule your consultation.
We serve patients in Baltimore, Lutherville-Timonium, Columbus, and other nearby areas of Maryland. We look forward to helping you achieve your plastic surgery goals.