For many, the tummy can be a part of our bodies that we don’t want others to see. Weight loss, advancing age, or post-pregnancy can leave the stomach region saggy and weak. In such cases, people often turn to a plastic surgeon for a tummy tuck – also known as an abdominoplasty.  

Last year, 130,000 Americans underwent tummy tucks, making it one of the five most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S. The procedure removes excess skin and fat tissue, while also tightening the abdominal muscles, all resulting in a flatter, tighter, more toned midsection.  

While the procedure does indeed significantly improve the aesthetic appearance of the abdominal region, there are also numerous medical benefits associated with a tummy tuck. If you are considering a tummy tuck in the Dallas region, this information will help you better understand how it can improve both your appearance and health.

 Medical Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

The abdominal region is the “core” of our physique. The musculature of the stomach serves many critical roles in the general functioning of our body, such as supporting the muscles around the spine, holding our abdominal organs (such as the stomach, intestines, liver, kidneys) in place, and assisting in our breathing.

In some instances, for example, after pregnancy, severe obesity, or old age, our abdominal muscles can become stretched and weakened. This laxity is not only physically unappealing, but it can also lead to numerous medical issues. As a tummy tuck tightens the abdominal musculature and region, it can help to reverse some of these medical problems. If you do suffer from any of the following symptoms, consider reaching out to Dr. Armijo, a tummy tuck specialist in the Dallas region, on (214) 540 1434 to discuss the potential medical benefits a tummy tuck provides. 

 Decrease Back Pain

Back pain is a common symptom of women who have recently given birth, and also for people who have lost significant amounts of weight. While not the sole reason, weak abdominal muscles can contribute to back pains and spasms. When the stomach muscles are weak, the back and spine muscles are not appropriately supported, which can often result in muscle imbalances and pain.

With a tummy tuck procedure, once the abdomen is flattened and excess skin and fat are removed, the musculature of the stomach is tightened. This reapplies the abdominal support to the back and may help to solve back pain.

Improve Posture

As we have discussed, a tummy tuck firm up the abdominal muscles, which are crucial in enabling you to hold your spine straight and erect.

By having an improved posture, you will naturally hold yourself higher and with more authority, which contributes to a much more confident you. Improved posture also reduces the risk of neck, shoulder and back pain.

 Reduce Stress Urinary Incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a condition in which there is too much pressure on your bladder and urethra. Pressure such as this leads to a loss of bladder control. Forceful body actions that utilize the breathing muscles and abdominals, such as sneezing, coughing, laughing, or exercising, can result in an uncontrolled release of urine. 

Whereas SUI is generally treated without surgery, studies have shown that a tummy tuck can reduce the pressure exerted on the excretory organs and thus help patients with SUI. 

 To Correct a Ventral Hernia

 A ventral hernia is a medical term for the protrusion caused by your intestine or abdominal tissue breaking through the abdominal wall. This can occur for numerous reasons, such as abdominal weakness resulting from significant weight loss, or surgical procedures such as an appendectomy or a cesarean section. 

As a tummy tuck procedure re-tensions weakened abdominal muscles, it re-establishes the necessary support to the region, correcting the ventral hernia. Once properly supported, the intestine or abdominal tissue is forced back into its original place.   

Before you decide to commit to a tummy tuck procedure, it is important to consult with your doctor to discuss what you want the procedure to address. Your doctor will be able to give you realistic expectations for the procedure. 

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View the gallery to see before and after photos of tummy tucks done by Dr. Armijo. 

It is likely that when performed by a highly specialized and experienced surgeon such as Dr. Armijo, your tummy tuck could provide you with both aesthetic and medical dividends. If you are indeed considering the procedure in Dallas, contact Dr. Bryan Armijo on (214) 540 1434 or fill out his online form to book a consultation today.