Thinking about having a tummy tuck? Want to separate the myths from truth? We list the truths about tummy tucks to help you make an informed decision.
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Myth #1: Tummy tucks are for women only.
Truth: More and more men are having them. This trend with likely increase with the ongoing obesity problem in the world. Men have them to get rid of an aged or “beer belly” appearance as well as for tightening sagging skin following dramatic weight loss.
#2: Any plastic surgeon can perform a tummy tuck.
Truth: All plastic surgeons are not created equal. They vary in their training, experience, ability and usually specialize in certain areas. Be sure to chose one that specializes in abdominoplasy surgery and is board certified.
#3: Tummy tuck surgery leaves no scars.
Truth: All surgeries leave scars. The amount of scarring depends on your body, the talent and techniques of your surgeon, your aftercare and recovery and the complexity of the surgery. The surgery generally leaves a permanent scar which can run horizontally across the entire width of your body from hip to hip, depending on how much skin you lose.
#4: The results do not last.
Truth: A results may last a lifetime but varies with age, diet, health, exercise, a healthy lifestyle and varies with each individual.
#5: Liposuction is a better choice than a tummy tuck.
Truth: Liposuction and tummy tucks are different. Liposuction reduces the thickness of your abdominal fat, and may slightly tightens your skin, it does not remove excess skin like an abdominoplasty does.
#6: Tummy tuck is a weight loss surgery.
Truth: It is not a weight loss surgery. It makes the abdomen slimmer by removing excess fat and loose and hanging skin. It may also tighten stomach muscles resulting in a firmer, more toned appearance.
#7: A tummy tuck is a “minor” cosmetic procedure.
Truth: It is a major surgical procedure and should be taken seriously. Scarring should be expected but is easily covered by clothing.
#8: Back to work in a week .
Truth: This may be true for some but many take a few weeks to a month to get back to work. Many factors come into play when recovering from surgery including personal health, ability to recover, complexity of surgery, complications and more. Whether you have a physically demanding job or one that you sit behind a desk will often be a key factor in when you can return to work.
#9: Tummy tucks are safe.
Truth: It’s dangerous but you can minimize the risks. You may hear horror stories, but these are the exceptions, not the rule. There are many more satisfied patients with successful results than those who have suffered from serious complications.
# 10: I don’t need a tummy tuck. I can get rid of my sagging skin with exercise.
Truth: Exercise and diet are good for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and getting physically fit they do not remove excess or sagging skin or reverse the effects of aging, genetics, and poor choices earlier in life.
# 11: Tummy tuck surgery cost the same no matter who performs them or where they are performed.
Truth: Many factors effect the cost. These include geographic location, surgeon expertise and popularity, complexity of your procedure, costs of anesthesia, surgical facility fee, lab costs and more.
# 12: It is disrespectful to ask your plastic surgeon tough questions.
Truth: It may be a hard thing to do but it is not disrespectful. Asking tough questions about his medical history and track record and any law suits past or pending is the best way to get to know your surgeon.
#13: It is inappropriate to ask surgeons to speak with their previous patients.
Truth: It is the smart thing to do.
# 14: All plastic surgeries are performed in accredited facilities.
Truth: Not always. Some surgeons perform the surgery in non-accredited facilities. Make sure you will have yours performed in an accredited facility to reduce safety risks and increase your comfort level.
# 15: All board certifications are the same.
Truth: Any group of medical professionals can create its own “certification” board. Be sure your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery – a group designated by the American Board of Medical Specialties to oversee credentialing in plastic surgery.
# 16: Tummy tucks are pain free.
Truth: I was lucky. Mine was pain free, but some individuals experience pain and soreness for as long as a year after the operation.
#17: A tummy tuck cannot be performed at the same time as liposuction or other cosmetic surgery procedures.
Truth: A tummy tuck can be performed alone, but can also be done in conjunction other surgeries. Your surgeon will make this determination for you. His decision will depend on your health and the complexity and risks of the procedures involved.
#18: You have to be rich and famous to undergo cosmetic medical procedures.
Truth: Not true. As long as you can afford it or have insurance that covers it (not likely) anyone can have one.
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