Will a Tummy Tuck Help Me Lose Weight?

One of the most common misconceptions about tummy tuck surgery is that it is considered a weight loss tool that can finally help patients shed their most stubborn pounds. While it is certainly possible to come out of tummy tuck surgery a few pounds lighter, this is primarily attributed to the excess skin removal that happens during the procedure. In some cases, liposuction is performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck to address small areas of diet- and exercise-resistant fat, which can help patients lose a small amount of weight as well. Still, tummy tuck should not be thought of as a substitute for weight loss, and patients considering tummy tuck should already be at or near their goal weight. Here, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall of Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA explains the connection between tummy tuck and weight loss in greater detail.

How does tummy tuck surgery work?

Formally referred to as an abdominoplasty, tummy tuck surgery is a widely popular body contouring procedure that has helped hundreds of thousands of men and women achieve a slimmer, smoother, more attractive physique. Some of the most common reasons for tummy tuck surgery to be performed are to address loose skin after weight loss or pregnancy, though it can also be a solution to help improve or reverse common side effects of the natural aging process, like sagging skin and other changes.

Do you lose weight with a tummy tuck?

The primary goal of tummy tuck surgery is to smooth and slim the lower midsection by removing excess skin, addressing muscle separation (diastasis recti) if present, and tightening the remaining skin. If you're like many people, you may also have stubborn abdominal or flank fat that you'd like to have reduced during your tummy tuck, which can typically be accomplished with a combined liposuction plus tummy tuck procedure. On average, patients can usually have about 8 – 10 pounds of fat removed during a tummy tuck, which may vary based on how much skin is removed, whether liposuction is included, and other factors.

It is essential, however, that patients do not schedule a tummy tuck in place of traditional weight loss efforts. Ideally, tummy tuck candidates have already reached their goal weight, within about 20 pounds, through diet and exercise before undergoing a tummy tuck. Additionally, patients should have maintained a consistently healthy weight for at least six months prior to surgery. These things can help to greatly increase the probability of an optimal outcome, swift recovery, and sustainable results over time.

Will I gain weight back after tummy tuck surgery?

Another important consideration for tummy tuck patients is that their results will depend on their dietary and lifestyle habits — and consistency — after surgery. Gaining weight after a tummy tuck can "undo" the outcome of both skin removal and liposuction, resulting in the patient losing their slimmer contours and potentially requiring a revision procedure to restore their desired look. To ensure your tummy tuck weight loss and body contouring results last for as long as possible, use these helpful tips:

• Avoid weight fluctuation
• Maintain a stable weight through consistent exercise and a balanced diet
• Do not smoke
• Minimize alcohol consumption
• Get plenty of sleep
• Reduce stress levels
• Defer your tummy tuck until after you're done having children (women)

With these healthy habits, your tummy tuck results can last for years, decades, or even a lifetime!

Slim down and smooth out your problem areas with tummy tuck surgery in Beverly Hills, CA

If you feel like your weight loss and body transformation progress has plateaued despite consistent efforts with diet and exercise, yet you still have loose skin, stretch marks, stubborn fat, and other concerns in the midsection, it may be time to consider a tummy tuck. Whether you're at the end of your body weight loss transformation, want to get your pre-baby body back, or are ready to combat the unwanted side effects of aging, our team is here to help. Take the first step toward the tummy tuck you've been dreaming of by calling to schedule your private consultation with Beverly Hills double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall today.