Tummy Tuck Pros and Cons

Undergoing a cosmetic procedure requires a lot of research and thought. That’s why we have compiled a list of the main pros and cons of undergoing a tummy tuck so that you can better understand whether it is right for you and your body. 

Medically reviewed by Dr. Omar Tillo MD, MS, EBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast)

Pros of Tummy Tuck

Slimmer Waistline

One of the main benefits of a tummy tuck surgery is the slimmer waistline revealed once the excess skin and fat are removed. This can help patients feel more comfortable in tight clothing and engage in exercise. 

Smoother Skin

During a tummy tuck procedure, after any loose skin is removed, the leftover skin is relayed over the abdominal muscles and pulled tight, leaving a smoother finish. In addition, many patients choose to combine their tummy tuck surgery with liposuction to remove fat deposits. 

Gets Rid of Stretch Marks

Tummy tucks can improve the appearance of the skin around the abdomen and can help reduce the prominence of stretch marks.  In cases where the stretch marks are found on the section of skin removed during your tummy tuck surgery, these will be excised permanently with the skin. However, stretch marks on the remaining skin will still be present and may require laser stretch mark removal to improve their appearance. 

Permanent Results

A tummy tuck provides a permanently slender and more contoured stomach as the excess skin and fat are removed. However, patients must keep to a healthy diet and exercise regularly to avoid fluctuations in weight and maintain results in the long term.  

Combination Procedures

Patients may wish to combine a tummy tuck surgery with other cosmetic procedures: 

One common combination is with liposuction, which removes a significantly larger amount of fat deposits than the amount a tummy tuck alone can achieve. Liposuction also removes stubborn fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. Overall, this can help to add even more definition to the abdomen.

A tummy tuck can also be combined with a breast augmentation or breast lift, referred to as a ‘mummy makeover’ package. It is ideal for women seeking to regain their pre-pregnancy figure as it targets the areas most affected by pregnancy and breastfeeding. Combining these procedures creates a more comprehensive transformation for the figure. 

Posture Improvement

The abdominal muscles can sometimes become weakened as a result of pregnancy and other factors. During a tummy tuck, any separated abdominal muscles are repaired, creating a stronger core. This can help to stabilise the spine, improving any back pain and posture.

Improves Abdominal Medical Issues

For patients having difficulties with diastasis recti – a muscle separation issue after pregnancy – a tummy tuck can help resolve the problem by bringing the separated muscles back together. By closing the gap between the muscles with dissolvable sutures, Dr. Tillo can firm up the stomach muscles and remove any of the lumps and bumps caused by diastasis recti.

Increased Self-Confidence 

Many patients find that a tummy tuck procedure can offer a boost to confidence by opening up avenues to more social activities, vigorous exercise, a wider wardrobe, and reducing discomfort when out in public or socialising. 

Cons of Tummy Tuck

Pain and Discomfort 

As with any surgery, a tummy tuck can lead to some discomfort and pain, especially during the initial days after the surgery. However, this discomfort should dissipate after the first five days. After two weeks, patients usually feel comfortable enough to return to most light, daily activities. 

Potential Scars

As a tummy tuck surgery involves incisions around the abdomen that will cause some scarring. The exact placement and size of any scarring are dependent on the type of tummy tuck performed, as well as the amount of excess skin to be removed. In general, a good surgeon is able to ensure scars are hidden by the natural contours of the body or by undergarments.

Recovery Time

In general, it usually takes 1-2 weeks for patients to return to most light, daily activities, including a return to work after a full tummy tuck. However, it can take up to 12 weeks for patients to be fully recovered. As such, patients with a busy lifestyle and mild skin laxity may instead benefit from undergoing a mini tummy tuck or BodyTite treatment, as this generally requires less downtime. 

Not a Weight Loss Solution

Although a tummy tuck can deliver a flatter and more toned abdomen by removing lax skin, it is not designed to be a weight loss solution. Patients seeking to lose weight may benefit from a dietician to ensure they are able to get the most out of their procedure and maintain the best possible results. 

At the CREO Clinic, we work with Racquel Britzke and her team of qualified nutritionists to help patients reach and maintain their ideal weight. This ensures that surgery can be conducted safely with long-lasting results. 

Weight Gain Impacts Results

Excess loose skin and fat are permanently removed during a tummy tuck. However, if patients go on to gain weight after surgery, they may develop skin laxity and fat deposits in the abdomen. This can cause the body to look disproportionate, and, as such, patients should seek to maintain a stable weight after their tummy tuck. 

Not for Everyone

Not everyone is suitable for a tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck procedure – people with BMIs of 30 and above (use our BMI checker if you are unsure) or certain pre-existing conditions that may not be the right fit for a tummy tuck.

In general, most adults experiencing lax skin on the abdomen and muscle separation will be a good candidate for the procedure, but if you are not sure, you can discuss your suitability with a board certifid plastic surgeon during your initial consultation.

Who is a Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck?

Prior to surgery, our surgeon will perform a comprehensive assessment to determine your suitability for a tummy tuck. Most men and women who wish to contour and flatten their stomachs are good candidates for a tummy tuck. To maintain results in the long-term, patients should, however, wait to undergo this procedure until they are at their ideal weight, and women should wait until after their final pregnancy.  

Is Tummy Tuck Worth It?

A tummy tuck is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures and can have numerous aesthetic and health benefits. Patients are able to tone and flatten their abdomen to a more desirable shape and can address concerns like back pain caused by a weaker core. For these reasons, many patients consider a tummy tuck to be a worthwhile endeavour. 

Schedule a Consultation with CREO Clinic Today

At the CREO Clinic, we pride ourselves on providing bespoke treatments tailored to your equally individualised need. If you are looking to tone your tummy and chisel your abs, an abdominoplasty may be right for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our body contouring surgeon, Dr. Omar Tillo.