Your Guide to an Abdominoplasty in Bowling Green, Kentucky

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck surgery) is a great option for men and women who are bothered by sagging skin and excess fat on their stomachs. If you are considering a tummy tuck in Bowling Green, KY, these are a few things you should know about the procedure and how you can benefit.

What is Abdominoplasty? 

Abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape and firm the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat while tightening the abdominal muscles. First, the surgeon makes an incision along the bikini line (hip to hip, just above the pubic area). Next, excess fat and skin are removed, and the abdominal muscles may be tightened using sutures to create a firmer abdominal wall. Finally, the remaining skin is re-draped over the newly tightened contours for a smoother appearance. The procedure may also include liposuction to remove stubborn fat and further refine the abdominal area.

Who is a Good Candidate for Abdominoplasty?

Ideal candidates for abdominoplasty are healthy adults who are non-smokers with no underlying medical conditions. Women considering an abdominoplasty should not be planning for additional pregnancies, since the results would be affected. It is also important for patients to have realistic expectations about their results. At your consultation, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons will assess your medical history and goals to make sure this is the right procedure for you.

Benefits of Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty offers numerous benefits beyond cosmetic enhancement. For many patients, this procedure can:

Increase Mobility

Patients with a significant amount of excess skin that hangs below the groin may find exercise and daily activities more difficult. By removing excess skin and fat, abdominoplasty not only flattens the stomach to create a more toned appearance, but also helps patients take the next step toward a healthier lifestyle and better quality of life.

Enhance Self-Confidence

Patients often experience a boost in self-esteem and body image following a tummy tuck, which allows them to feel more comfortable in clothing and during social interactions. This confidence boost can have a tremendous impact on mental health and overall wellness.

Correct Abdominal Weakness

Pregnancy or significant weight loss can lead to weakened abdominal muscles, which can negatively impact posture and cause bladder incontinence. Abdominoplasty addresses these issues by tightening the muscles to improve core strength and stability.

Reduce Skin Irritation

Sagging skin can cause chaffing when it rubs up against the thighs and groin areas. By removing an “apron” of skin from the lower stomach, patients can find relief from this painful friction.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

There are a few misconceptions and myths about abdominoplasty and what it can achieve. Some common misconceptions we have heard, include:

It’s a Quick Fix for Weight Loss 

Abdominoplasty is not a weight loss surgery. However, it offers many benefits for patients who are at the end of their weight loss journey and want to accentuate their newly toned tummies and slimmer curves. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine after abdominoplasty for long-lasting results.

Results Are Immediate

While some improvements are visible immediately after an abdominoplasty, swelling will impact the results for several months. Although most of the swelling will reduce after two weeks, it can persist for six months or more. You will gradually see improvements in the tone and texture of your abdominal skin as the incisions heal and swelling goes down. 

It’s Only for Women

Many plastic procedures, like abdominoplasty, have recently grown in popularity for patients of all genders. Although a tummy tuck is a popular procedure for women who want to rejuvenate their pre-pregnancy bodies, men can also benefit from abdominoplasty, especially after significant weight loss.

Schedule a Consultation

Abdominoplasty is a transformative procedure for individuals in Bowling Green, Kentucky, looking to achieve a firmer, more contoured abdomen. To learn more about this cosmetic surgery, schedule a consultation today with Dr. Victor Atalla and Dr. Katie Duren at Atalla Plastic Surgery.