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Who should not have a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles. It can help achieve a flatter, more toned stomach. However, a tummy tuck is a major surgery and may not be right for everyone. Here we explore some of the factors that indicate a person should not undergo a tummy tuck procedure.

Those planning future pregnancies

One of the main reasons not to get a tummy tuck is if you are planning future pregnancies. During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles and skin stretch out. This stretching can undo the results of a tummy tuck. Some plastic surgeons will advise women to wait until after having all planned pregnancies before undergoing this procedure.

Many surgeons recommend waiting at least 6 months after giving birth before having a tummy tuck. This allows time for the abdominal region to recover from pregnancy. It also allows the results of the procedure to last longer.

People with certain medical conditions

There are some medical conditions that increase risks with a tummy tuck. These include:

  • Uncontrolled diabetes – Poorly controlled blood sugar levels can interfere with healing.
  • Heart or lung disease – The surgery may strain these systems.
  • Clotting disorders – These increase the risk of dangerous blood clots.
  • Weak immune system – This makes infections more likely.

It’s important to give your surgeon a full account of your medical history. This will help them assess if it is safe for you to have a tummy tuck. They may recommend postponing surgery until any underlying conditions are under better control.

People who are obese

In general, a tummy tuck is not recommended for obese patients. Obese is defined as having a BMI over 30. The risks and complications associated with the surgery go up significantly with higher BMIs. Some of the key concerns include:

  • Higher risk of wound healing problems
  • Increased anesthesia risks
  • Higher chance of blood clots forming
  • Possibility of poor aesthetic results

For severely obese patients, the pannus (overhanging abdomen) may be too large for a tummy tuck to adequately address. Most surgeons will encourage obese patients to reach a healthier weight before attempting the procedure. Even losing 5-10% of body weight can help reduce surgical risks.

People with certain abdominal scars

Previous surgical scars on the abdomen can impact the practicability and outcomes of a tummy tuck procedure. The location of scars is important.

Midline scars from surgeries like c-sections are usually not a major issue. The tummy tuck incision can often be placed low enough that it will be hidden by underwear or swimsuits.

However, scars that extend far across the abdomen horizontally may preclude a traditional tummy tuck. The prior scarring cannot be removed. This can limit how much “tightening” can be done and affect the final appearance.

Individuals with unrealistic expectations

Tummy tuck procedures have limits in terms of the results that can be achieved. It is important to have realistic expectations going into it. Individuals who expect a tummy tuck to:

  • Lead to dramatic weight loss
  • Provide a perfectly flat and toned abdomen
  • Remove all signs of stretch marks or cellulite

May be disappointed with the actual outcomes. Plastic surgeons screen potential patients carefully. They want to ensure people understand the procedure and have suitable expectations. Otherwise, poor outcomes may occur.

People with certain lifestyle factors

There are some lifestyle factors that can also make a surgeon recommend against getting a tummy tuck. These include:

  • Smoking – Smoking interferes with blood flow and healing. Most surgeons insist patients quit smoking for several weeks before and after the procedure.
  • Drug or alcohol abuse – Substance abuse issues can make surgery riskier and complicate recovery.
  • Sedentary lifestyle – Being inactive can slow healing. Exercise and activity levels may need to be assessed.

Also, individuals who are unwilling to adhere to post-surgery instructions may be poor candidates. Things like wearing compression garments and avoiding strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks are key for proper healing.

Those with certain abdominal anatomy

Sometimes a person’s specific abdominal anatomy makes them less suited for a tummy tuck procedure. Examples include:

  • Weak abdominal muscles – If the rectus abdominis muscles are very separated or thin, they may not provide enough tone even after being stitched together.
  • Obese with minimal excess skin – Obese individuals without much excess skin may not see optimal results. The fat will remain but not the skin to remove.
  • Thin with lots of excess skin – Being very thin with sagging skin (after major weight loss) may require extra skin removal not achievable with one tummy tuck.

An experienced plastic surgeon can help determine if a tummy tuck is likely to deliver the desired outcome based on a physical exam of the abdominal region.

Those unable to take time off to recover

It is important to have adequate time to recover after a tummy tuck before resuming normal activities. Most patients require 1-2 weeks off work. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting must be avoided for 4-6 weeks as the abdominal incision heals.

Individuals who are unable to take sufficient time off may experience complications like wound ruptures or poor scar healing. Surgeons usually recommend having proper help and support lined up during the recovery period.

People with psychological issues with their appearance

While a tummy tuck can provide aesthetic improvements, it will not change someone’s life or improve their self-esteem. People with conditions like body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) may become obsessed with perceived flaws even after plastic surgery.

It is vital for patients to have realistic motivations. Wanting to feel more confident after pregnancy or major weight loss is reasonable. However, those with psychological issues affecting their body image may need counselling instead of or in addition to cosmetic procedures.

Those unable to afford the procedure

Lastly, the cost of a tummy tuck may make it prohibitive for some people. According to 2018 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of a tummy tuck is:

Procedure Average Cost
Standard tummy tuck $6,253
Extended tummy tuck $8,064
Body lift (lower and upper) $17,037

This does not include things like facility fees, anesthesia, and medication costs. When electing to have a tummy tuck, ensure you can realistically fit it into your budget.

Conclusion

In summary, there are many factors surgeons consider when determining if a tummy tuck will benefit a patient. Planning future pregnancies, having certain medical conditions, unrealistic expectations, and limited finances are some reasons a surgeon may decline to perform the procedure.

Careful patient screening and selection can help ensure optimal surgical outcomes. This allows patients to see aesthetic improvements in their midsection without putting their health at risk. With proper criteria, a tummy tuck can be an extremely beneficial procedure for the right individual.