Tummy Tuck: Here Is Who Should Avoid It
Fat in the stomach region can be tricky; it's easy to gain but is also supposed to be easy to lose. The problem is that sometimes there are stubborn areas that do not respond regardless of how much dieting and exercising we do.
If we are able to lose that fat, we may find that our skin has been stretched and does not have the elasticity required to shrink back into place, leaving us with a pouch-like area of excess skin. In these situations, a tummy tuck is certainly one of the first options that come to mind for many people. There are, however, some circumstances in which it is not a good option.
Possibility of Future Pregnancies
As mentioned earlier, many women who have had children consider having abdominoplasty to reduce the appearance of stretched skin in the abdomen area. Most surgeons advise that you be sure you are finished having children, at least for awhile, before undergoing the procedure.
Undergoing another pregnancy too soon after having the surgery will destroy the results and cause the need for a second procedure. It is best to wait until you're sure before you make the investment and commitment. In the meantime, if you do plan to become pregnant again or are currently pregnant, apply moisturizer to your stomach on a daily basis-this will improve your skin's elasticity and help to prevent or minimize stretching.
Extreme Weight Loss
If you have undergone a period of rapid or extreme weight loss, doctors recommend that you wait and maintain your goal weight for at least six months before undergoing abdominoplasty. This is to protect you and your body and eliminate the need for having the surgery re-done later. It can be tough to wait so long, but you should make sure that you can maintain your healthy diet and lifestyle before rushing into a tummy tuck.
Smokers & Patients with Existing Health Concerns
Abdominoplasty is a major surgery performed under general anesthesia. Smokers and other at-risk patients, such as those with heart disease or diabetes, are advised to take caution when making the decision to undergo the procedure. Always divulge your medical history to your surgeon and carefully consider the risks and your other options before making the commitment.