While some plastic surgery procedures are purely cosmetic, the tummy tuck is unique in that it has both aesthetic and medical benefits. For some of Dr. Fugo’s patients, the medical benefits can be a major draw.
Strengthened Abdominal Wall Muscles
A tummy tuck not only tightens loose, excess skin in your midsection; it restores normal anatomical position to separated abdominal wall muscles. This can be especially beneficial for patients who:
- Had multiple pregnancies
- Experienced significant weight loss
- Underwent a C-section or appendectomy
Your core muscles control many of your everyday functions, including your ability to lift heavy objects, sit up and even breathe. While crunches can strengthen your abdominal muscles, they can’t do what a tummy tuck can for your stomach. By surgically tightening and repositioning your abdominal muscles, your belly will look, feel and function better.
Improved Posture
Weak abdominal wall muscles can cause a condition known as lordosis or swayback. This condition negatively affects the curvature of your spine.
Restoring normal position to the core muscles that support your spine can correct this condition and lead to overall better posture. Good posture not only enhances your appearance, it:
- Reduces stress on your bones and joints
- Helps you maintain flexibility and range of motion throughout your body
- Reduces body tension and prevents muscular pain
- Increases your energy levels
- Improves circulation and digestion
Decreased Back Pain & Urinary Incontinence
A common symptom of poor posture is back pain. Chronic back pain is also typical during and after pregnancy.
A study published in the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that a tummy tuck improved back pain for 85 percent of women six months post-surgery. The 214 women studied had an average of 2.5 births and were an average of 42 years old.
The study also found that 73 percent of women noted an improvement in urinary incontinence after a tummy tuck, which often occurs after childbirth as well.
Should You Get a Tummy Tuck?
If you suffer from urinary incontinence, back pain or one of the other medical conditions we’ve discussed, a tummy tuck may be able to help. To undergo the surgery, you should be:
- Physically healthy
- At or near a stable weight, within 25 lbs of your “Goal Weight” and below a BMI of 33
- Free from any infections or illnesses
You should also have realistic expectations about the procedure. While many women have reported improvements to these medical issues after a tummy tuck, it’s not guaranteed. Be sure to let Dr. Fugo know about your surgical goals prior to treatment so he can recommend a body contouring procedure that’s best for you.
Will Insurance Pay for Your Procedure?
Since most plastic surgery procedures are considered elective rather than medically necessary, insurance does not cover the costs of surgery in Dr. Fugo’s practice.
For procedures paid out of pocket, we offer several financing options.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
To schedule a tummy tuck consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Fugo, call 845-565-7040 or use the form on this page. Dr. Fugo serves patients in New Windsor, New York and throughout the Hudson Valley.
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