As we age, it is normal for our bodies to change and for loose skin to develop as a result of weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and the aging process, which naturally leads to the development of loose skin and other body changes. For this reason, many patients choose to undergo a tummy tuck later in life, and women usually wait until after their final pregnancy to get the most out of their surgery.
Changes to the abdominal wall over time, including weakening and separation, can significantly impact one’s appearance and comfort, leading to the desire for a tummy tuck to address these issues.
In this article, we will discuss the role age plays in getting a tummy tuck surgery so that you can understand whether you are a suitable candidate for this cosmetic surgery.
During a consultation, your surgeon will account for your age, among other factors, to determine your suitability for an abdominoplasty.
In general, there is no defined age limit for having a tummy tuck surgery, as it is possible to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen in older patients safely. It’s important to understand that being considered ‘old for a tummy tuck’ is a misconception; there is no specific upper age limit for this procedure, especially for individuals in their 50s, 60s, and beyond, provided they are in good overall health and have realistic expectations.
A tummy tuck surgery is safe to conduct on patients over the age of fifty. It is, however, important that older patients are in good physical health and are close to their ideal weight to ensure the best possible results.
A 2017 study (Couto et al.) found that there were no significant differences between the likelihood of complications in people younger or older than 60 years old. Despite the study’s relatively low sample size, it does provide evidence that older people who are good candidates for abdominoplasty procedures are not necessarily at greater risk than a younger person.
Dr. Tillo explains: “Most studies show that age alone is not a major risk factor for surgery. However, the presence of some medical problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart problems and other, are more significant in increasing the risks of complications, and these medical problems are more common in older age.”
With this in mind, the most important factor for ensuring safety for older patients is to assess their medical history for any issues, and make sure they are in good physical and mental health – Dr. Tillo does this with all prospective patients.
After a tummy tuck, all patients will need to take some downtime to allow their bodies to heal effectively and ensure the integrity of the results. Every recovery journey is different and can depend on a range of factors, such as the amount of skin removed, if separated abdominal muscles were reconnected, and the surgical techniques used.
In general, older patients may take longer to recover compared to younger patients due to the reduced functional reserve in our organs as we age. Recovery from potential complications can be less effective and slower as a result.
However, this doesn’t mean that older men and women aren’t suitable for a tummy tuck procedure, only that they should anticipate a longer period of downtime.
All patients undergoing a tummy tuck can expect a flatter and more contoured abdomen after surgery. However, the loose skin of older patients is typically less elastic and may be less smooth and tight compared to younger patients.
It is therefore important to have realistic expectations about the final results of your tummy tuck. To ensure this, you can look at the before and after pictures of patients of a similar age and body type.
Any patient who has undergone a tummy tuck will see a flatter and more contoured stomach after the surgery, but it is important to note that older people’s skin tends to be less elastic and may not be as smooth and flat as the skin of younger patients.
However, the results themselves are permanent in older patients, and will last a long time provided you maintain a balanced diet and avoid fluctuations in weight.
There are several ways to get the most out of your tummy tuck after 50:
An abdominoplasty is an invasive cosmetic procedure that often involves the use of general anaesthesia. To minimise the risk of surgery and avoid complications, you should ensure that you are in the best possible health prior to your tummy tuck.
In addition, you should also share any concerns you have regarding your health during a consultation with your board-certified plastic surgeon for your own wellbeing and peace of mind. Your surgeon can then accurately determine your suitability for a tummy tuck.
Nicotine can significantly increase the risk of a range of complications for all types of plastic surgery procedures. Nicotine causes the small blood vessels to shut down, preventing blood flow in the skin and impairing the healing process. Nicotine usage has also been found to increase the risk of infections and skin necrosis.
For this reason, it is essential that you abstain from smoking and nicotine-containing products for at least a month before and after a plastic surgery procedure.
It is important that you are close to your ideal BMI before your surgery for two main reasons.
First, being at a healthy weight reduces the risk of surgical complications associated with being overweight such as wound breakdown, skin necrosis, infection, and clots.
Secondly, by being at your ideal weight, you can get the most out of your newly taut tummy and can maintain the results of your surgery for longer.
After an abdominoplasty, you should also avoid significant weight fluctuations by maintaining healthy lifestyle habits like eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly.
Ideal tummy tuck candidates over 50 years old should:
A tummy tuck surgery for both older and younger patients can deliver a range of aesthetic and functional benefits. Many patients enjoy their newly flatter and more contoured abdomen and feel more comfortable in form-fitting clothing as a result.
For patients who undergo a tummy tuck with muscle repair, the surgery can give ample relief from associated health conditions like back pain and poor posture.
It is for these reasons that our patients of all ages consider a tummy tuck to be worthwhile.
If you are seeking to tone and tighten your tummy, a tummy tuck may be right for you.
At the CREO Clinic, Dr Omar Tillo has dedicated his career to body contouring, cosmetic procedures, mastering the skills necessary to design bespoke tummy tucks for his patients.
Contact the CREO Clinic today to book a consultation with Dr Tillo, and get on track to your dream taut tummy.
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