For centuries, women (and even men) relied on corsets to change the appearance of their bodies particularly in the abdominal region. The inverted conical shape of the corset gave the illusion of a small waist and a flat stomach. Though this undergarment is still in use today, its popularity dwindled with the advent of a new fashion and the introduction of tummy tucks.
Tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess abdominal skin and fat. In the Western World, patients undergo tummy tucks mostly because of aesthetic purposes. In other parts of the globe such as India and Middle Eastern countries, these surgical procedures are done mostly for functional purposes (i.e., hygiene or relief from pain).
Whatever a patient’s reason is, the number of tummy tuck procedures has increased over the years. According to the 2012 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), abdominoplasty was the sixth most performed procedure that year. This represents a 70% increase compared to 2000 numbers.
Why are people interested in a tummy tuck?
According to experts, tummy tucks can result in increased physical, emotional and sexual happiness. According to a study published at the Journal of Sexual Medicine, abdominoplasty has a positive influence on female sexuality.
Nineteen women with an average age of 35 years old underwent abdominoplasty. After the surgery, they were evaluated based on physical change, sexual enjoyment, and body image. After 6 months, the women reported a significant improvement in their sexual enjoyment.
If you’re planning to have a tummy tuck procedure, make sure you are doing it for the right reasons. The ASPS discourages you from this procedure if you are one of the following:
- People who are looking for a substitute for an exercise program.
- Women who would like to get rid of their stretch marks.
- If you still plan on getting pregnant in the future.
For whom are tummy tucks, then?
Abdominoplasty is for women who have had multiple pregnancies. This procedure helps them tighten their abdominal muscles and reduce excess fats. Also, abdominoplasty is for men and women who have experienced significant fluctuations in their weight. Examples of these people are those who were once obese and had to get rid of excess abdominal fats.
If you are the right candidate for a tummy tuck, here’s what you need to consider before and after the surgery.
- You must eat well so that you can heal well. Expect at least 6 weeks for a full recovery period.
- Plan your schedule in advance. Make arrangements at work and at home. Talk to Dr. Lakshman and together you’ll come up with the perfect timeline for your individual lifestyle.
- Full recovery takes time. After the surgery, you should not stress yourself or subject yourself to rigorous physical activities.
For more information or to schedule an evaluation, contact us today.