Excess fat in the midsection can be a great source of insecurity for many. Weight loss, weight gain, pregnancy or surgery can add extra skin and fat to the abdomen creating a bothersome belly, both in appearance and, in some cases, uncomfortable or even painful medical issues. 

Tummy tucks, also known as mommy makeovers, target loose skin and diastasis, a condition that occurs when abdominal muscles do not properly reshape after naturally separating during pregnancy. Diastasis can lead to a rounded or enlarged appearing midsection in some cases due to these weak abdominal muscles. In addition to skin removal, tummy tucks involve restoring or repairing the weakened or separated muscles, hernia repair and strengthening bladder control. However, the most obvious “cure” that a tummy tuck provides is recontouring the body’s shape providing a more flattened and toned midsection. 

While tummy tucks are often referred to as just one procedure, there are 3 different types of tummy tucks, each of which is appropriate for different patients depending on their needs. The 3 types of tummy tucks include partial or mini-abdominoplasty, complete abdominoplasty and circumferential abdominoplasty. Depending on a patient’s goals, liposuction may be included with a tummy tuck or suggested as an alternative to a tummy tuck procedure. 

With the elimination of excess fat and skin, many patients wonder if they’ll notice a need to go down a size after a tummy tuck. While a patient will not lose much in terms of overall weight, inches will be lost. Most patients can expect to go down 2-3 dress or pant sizes after a tummy tuck procedure. 

If you are considering a tummy tuck procedure, David W. Allison, MD would love the opportunity to discuss your expectations and any questions you may have. To schedule a consultation, you may contact our friendly office team at 703-754-8228 or by WEBSITE.