When contemplating tummy tuck surgery, many patients want to know if the procedure will be worthwhile for them. Many patients view tummy tuck results as a way to gauge the worth of the surgery and as a significant factor in whether or not they choose to get the surgery. This blog discusses what happens to a tummy tuck over the years and how to maintain results so you can enjoy your smooth, flat abdominal contours for as long as possible.
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Committing to a Tummy Tuck
Any plastic surgery procedure is an investment in yourself that requires a time commitment and financial planning. Many people are interested in tummy tuck surgery because it can remove stubborn fat and excess skin as well as tighten the abdominal muscles. Prospective patients often want to know how long they can expect tummy tuck results to last so they can make an informed decision about whether to commit time and money to having the procedure.
Are Tummy Tuck Results Permanent?
One of the most commonly asked questions regarding tummy tuck surgery is whether the results are permanent or not. It is essential to understand that the changes made to your body during a tummy tuck will be permanent in the sense that those alterations will stay with you. However, your body will still be susceptible to naturally occurring changes—such as weight fluctuations and the aging process—that can change the appearance of your results.
What Happens to a Tummy Tuck Over Time?
Every person’s body is unique and will react to tummy tuck surgery differently, so there is no exact timeline for how long results will last. That being said, many patients are able to enjoy the full extent of their results for around 10 years before noticing changes due to natural aging.
Over time, as you age, your skin will naturally lose elasticity and become looser. This could result in your abdominal skin loosening, potentially altering your tummy tuck results. However, changes due to natural aging are typically gradual, and the improvements made to the stomach region remain.
Another thing to consider is that weight fluctuations can significantly impact your results. Losing or gaining 10 pounds or less may not result in visible changes. Yet, if you gain significant weight after a tummy tuck, your skin will stretch over the larger size of your stomach. It is also possible that the abdominal muscles will weaken again. Similarly, if a significant amount of weight is lost, then the tummy tuck results will be compromised. Losing a lot of weight can result in excess, sagging abdominal skin, which can only be removed by a tummy tuck revision.
How to Maintain Tummy Tuck Results
The key to maintaining your tummy tuck results is to stay at a stable weight. This is part of the reason why many surgeons recommend that patients maintain a stable weight for at least six months prior to surgery.
After your tummy tuck, it’s a good idea to eat a balanced diet filled with nutrient-rich foods. Additionally, finding an exercise routine that works with your regular schedule can be incredibly beneficial for keeping your weight stable.
Since weight changes can negatively affect tummy tuck results, we recommend that women who are planning to have children wait until they are done building their families before getting a tummy tuck. This will help prevent the need for future revision surgeries.
Have More Questions About Tummy Tuck Surgery in Phoenix, AZ?
Are you considering tummy tuck surgery? One of the best ways to determine if this procedure is right for your goals is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Boll. During your consultation, you’ll learn more about the procedure, discuss your health history, share your goals, and receive a customized treatment plan if you’re seen as a good candidate.
To schedule your tummy tuck consultation, call Dr. Boll’s office at (480) 833-5200. If you prefer, you can also complete our online contact form.