8 Myths About Tummy Tucks

Despite the fact that an abdominoplasty, or more widely known as a tummy tuck, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures, there are still many myths surrounding it. In this blog, we dispel the top 8 myths and common misconceptions about the tummy tuck procedure.

1. A Tummy Tuck Will Help You Lose Weight

This is probably the most common misconception regarding tummy tucks. The procedure itself is designed to remove loose skin that no longer holds elasticity, which is what caused it to be loose in the first place. It does not remove fat cells or help you lose weight. If you are looking for a cosmetic procedure that will help you with that, you can try liposuction, which brings us to our next myth…

2. A Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Do the Same Thing

As mentioned above, a tummy tuck and liposuction are different procedures entirely with different end results. While a tummy tuck’s purpose is to remove any excess skin on the abdomen, there is the possibility that fat cells will be removed during the procedure. Dissimilarly, liposuction removes fat cells, but it will not remove any excess skin.

However, that does not mean they can’t be used together. Combining the two procedures can remove even the most stubborn of fat and give your skin a tighter, younger appearance. If you should choose to undergo both procedures, just be aware that the associated costs will increase as well as how much time it will take to recover.

3. Only Women Undergo Tummy Tucks

This is strictly untrue. While most media and advertising will depict women receiving a tummy tuck, many men seek out this procedure. A tummy tuck can be performed on anyone who is suffering from loose, excess skin on their abdomen. Both men and women desire to look their best and can improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery procedures like this one, as well as many others.

4. Tummy Tucks Are Highly Risky

Like any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with a tummy tuck. It’s no more or no less risky than any other kind of cosmetic surgery. According to a study, only about 3 percent of patients reported any king of major complication following their procedure.

Any risks or potentially adverse outcomes will be discussed in detail during your initial surgical consultation. Our goal at McLean Clinic is to ensure that everyone who walks through our doors has a thorough understanding of what their desired procedure entails, from results to recovery, and including possible complications.

5. A Tummy Tuck Will Permanently Damage Your Nerves

The tummy tuck procedure works to repair your abdominal muscles and remove any unwanted excess skin there. The nerves are not involved in the surgical process at any point. There are some patients who have reported experiencing some very minor nerve damage, or numbing, but this side effect is typically temporary. It will likely subside within a few days or a couple of weeks.

Permanent nerve damage is possible, however, it is extremely unlikely. With a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon, such as Dr. McLean, the possibility is very improbable. Like previously mentioned, all risks associated with the tummy tuck procedure will be discussed during your initial consultation.

6. Tummy Tucks Will Leave an Ugly Scar

While you will likely have a scar following your tummy tuck, as the procedure does require an incision to be made from one hip to the other, by no means will it be ugly or clearly visible. Advances in surgical technology and your surgeon’s training will allow for the to make the scar as thin as possible and well below your panty or bikini line.

Additionally, if you do wish to reduce the look of your scar after making a full recovery, you can opt to have cosmetic treatments such as chemical peels or laser skin resurfacing that are specifically aimed at reducing the look of scars.

7. Tummy Tucks Are for Lazy People

This is a complete myth. In fact, tummy tucks achieve the best results when performed on healthy individuals who maintain a healthy weight, exercise, and eat right. The reason why so many people you would consider to be “fit” undergo a tummy tuck is that no amount of exercising or healthy eating can get rid of loose skin. If you have tried every popular exercise class and still suffer from excess skin on your abdomen, then surgically removing it with a tummy tuck might be the right option for you.

8. You Cannot Get Pregnant After a Tummy Tuck

While it may be true that the majority of people will have a tummy tuck once they are done having children, it does not mean that you should not get pregnant after having the procedure done. There are no additional risks in doing so, although the results that you achieved through the tummy tuck procedure before becoming pregnant may be impacted.

To book a consultation with Dr. McLean to discuss your body goals and the tummy tuck procedure, contact us today!