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When Can A Tummy Tuck Be Medically Necessary?

By: Dr. Rolando Morales

9/23/2020

For men and women everywhere, the tummy tuck procedure is truly a life-changing experience. It continues to grow in popularity because of its ability to remove excess abdominal skin and recontour the body. While there are many cosmetic advantages to surgery, patients should also learn about the incredible medical benefits as well.

So, when is a tummy tuck necessary, and are there medical reasons for tummy tuck surgery? Dr. Rolando Morales is a board-certified plastic surgeon who frequently educates patients about the functional and aesthetic reasons for tummy tucks. Get started by contacting Morales Plastic Surgery in Houston, TX, and receive a personalized consultation.

What does a tummy tuck do?

Tummy tuck surgery is primarily considered an aesthetic procedure. This is because it is designed to remove excess skin and tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. Most candidates who seek tummy tucks were pregnant or lost a significant amount of weight. If sagging skin on the midsection prevents you from performing daily activities, this procedure could be an ideal solution. During your assessment with Dr. Morales, we can review the process in full and help you feel confident about your decision.

Medical reasons for tummy tuck surgery

Even though most body contouring procedures are performed for cosmetic purposes in Houston, TX, there are medical reasons for tummy tuck surgery. Recommendations vary based on each individual patient and can be clarified during your consultation. So, when is a tummy tuck necessary? Read the following to learn more:

  • Diastasis recti: Women who have gone through one or more pregnancies often experience loose abdominal muscles. This is known as diastasis recti, and commonly causes medical problems like stress incontinence. Tummy tucks tighten and restore the underlying muscles.

  • Hernia: Pregnancy and childbirth sometimes lead to hernias, causing the intestines to push through the weak spots in the walls of the muscles. A tummy tuck could repair these weak areas and prevent further medical complications down the road.

  • Back pain: For patients who recently lost a lot of weight, heavy abdominal skin causes bad posture and significant back pain. If you are no longer able to support sagging or hanging skin around the waist, a tummy tuck can restore your mobility and make you feel comfortable in your body.

Other tummy tuck benefits

Most patients at Morales Plastic Surgery hope to combine their tummy tuck surgery with other procedures to make the most of their time spent under the knife. This is because tummy tuck benefits allow us to address multiple areas at once. Mommy makeover surgery, for example, includes breast augmentation and other treatments so women can feel refreshed and restored. Let Dr. Morales know about your medical and cosmetic goals for surgery so we can create a custom plan moving forward.

Get a tummy tuck in Houston

So, when is a tummy tuck necessary? After significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies, your stomach muscles may not return to their original positions. Tummy tuck procedures tighten or repair weak muscles while removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rolando Morales is proud to meet with patients from all walks of life to provide education and resources about this topic. To learn more about tummy tuck benefits, schedule a visit with the team at Morales Plastic Surgery by giving us a call in Houston, TX.

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.