Posted: April 1, 2019
The purpose of tummy tuck surgery is to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal region while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. This procedure is often beneficial for women who have gone through pregnancy or individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight. However, many Beverly Hills patients wonder if this procedure can also correct stubborn stretch marks.
Stretch Marks and Tummy Tuck
During a tummy tuck, Dr. Orringer removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal region. Some stretch mark removal often occurs during a tummy tuck as stretch marks happen to be located directly on the excess skin that is removed. However, a tummy tuck will not address stretch marks outside of that area.
For example, stretch marks on your hips will remain after your procedure. If stretch marks are partially located within the treatment area, they will not be removed entirely. Some stretch marks may be moved or lowered during surgery as well.
Eliminating stretch marks is usually not the main purpose of tummy tuck surgery. However, patients who desire the aesthetic and potentially functional benefits of a tummy tuck may experience a decrease in stretch marks as an additional benefit.
Patients who are concerned about scars should be aware that tummy tuck surgery, like other surgery, creates scars. However, the main scar is often positioned under the bikini line, so it may be hidden under underwear or a bathing suit. If you undergo a full tummy tuck, there will also be a scar around the belly button. Scars typically fade with time and scar appearance is often helped following surgery with consistent topical scar care. Many people feel that a well-positioned scar looks better than the often extensive stretch marks that are removed with the excess skin.
Ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery:
- Have loose, hanging skin and excess fat of the abdominal region
- Have stretched or separated abdominal wall muscles
- Are generally healthy, eat a healthy diet, and exercise
- Don’t smoke or are willing to quit
- Have realistic goals and expectations for the procedure
Schedule Your Beverly Hills Tummy Tuck Consultation
As a double board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Orringer understands that everyone has unique reasons for pursuing cosmetic surgery. He will determine if a tummy tuck could potentially accomplish your specific goals during an individualized consultation.
Call 310-273-1663 today to schedule your consultation. We welcome patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica, and Hollywood, California, as well as nationally and internationally.
