Losing weight is a major achievement. It takes time, dedication, and effort. For many people, though, weight loss leaves behind excess skin that doesn’t shrink back.
You aren’t alone if you’ve reached your goal weight but feel frustrated by loose skin. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, from board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Brooks and his team at Brooks Plastic Surgery in Hollywood, Florida, can help complete your transformation and restore confidence in your body.
A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and often tightens the underlying abdominal muscles. After major weight loss, these muscles may be stretched or weakened, and surgery can help restore core strength and stability.
It isn’t a weight loss procedure. Instead, tummy tucks can refine your results after you’ve already done the hard work to lose weight.
You’re likely a good candidate if you’ve reached a stable weight and maintained it for several months. Ideally, you should be in good general health, not smoke, and have realistic expectations about recovery and results. If you’re planning to lose more weight or become pregnant in the future, it might be best to wait.
A consultation with Dr. Brooks is the best way to know for sure.
Skin has amazing elasticity, but it isn’t limitless. When it’s stretched too far, like during obesity or pregnancy, it can lose its ability to bounce back. After significant weight loss, the skin may sag or fold, especially in the lower abdomen.
Excess skin can cause chafing, irritation, and hygiene issues, all of which a tummy tuck can help resolve.
Recovery from a tummy tuck requires patience and planning. Most people need two to four weeks off from work, depending on their job and how their body heals. You’ll initially have swelling, soreness, and limited mobility.
But recovery doesn’t last forever. By following Dr. Brooks’s instructions and giving your body time to heal, you’ll be able to enjoy the full results in a few months.
Yes, there will be a scar. Most tummy tuck incisions run from hip to hip, low enough to be hidden by underwear or swimsuits. Over time, the scar usually fades, but it won’t disappear completely.
For many, the trade-off is worth it. A smoother, firmer abdomen often boosts self-esteem and comfort that outweighs concerns about the scar.
Some patients combine a tummy tuck with other body contouring procedures, like a breast lift or liposuction. These can offer more comprehensive results and help balance overall proportions. However, combining surgeries may also increase recovery time and risk.
Talk to Dr. Brooks about your goals and whether a single or staged approach is right for you.
Reaching your weight loss goal is something to celebrate, but true transformation doesn’t stop at the number on the scale. A tummy tuck can help align your outer appearance with how strong and healthy you feel on the inside.
If excess skin is holding you back from fully enjoying your success, it might be time to take the next step. Call our office or schedule your consultation online for a personalized consultation. We can help you understand your options and decide if surgery is the right move for you.
