Will Fat Return After Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Without question, tummy tuck surgery is one of the most in-demand cosmetic procedures year after year. For women who have had children or patients who have achieved extreme weight loss, a tummy tuck can truly be life-changing and may serve as the final step in their physical transformation. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi and the expert team at SSK Plastic Surgery take pride in helping men and women achieve or restore the body they deserve with tummy tuck surgery in Newport Beach, CA. If you are considering a tummy tuck, use this helpful information to learn more about what results you can expect and how long they may last.

What is a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery, formally known as abdominoplasty, is a transformative body contouring procedure that utilizes skin removal, muscle tightening, and other surgical techniques to sculpt a trimmer, firmer, more appealing midsection. Tummy tuck is notably popular among women who are hoping to restore their pre-pregnancy body after having children, as well as patients who have been left with excess skin after weight loss. However, tummy tuck can also be beneficial for men and women who have developed loose skin, stubborn fat, and other side effects simply as a result of the aging process. Common concerns that can be improved with abdominoplasty include:

• Loose, hanging skin
• Extra skin
• Tummy pooch
• Stretch marks
• Stubborn abdominal fat
• Diastasis recti
• Ventral hernia
• Stress urinary incontinence

How much fat can a tummy tuck remove?

Patients considering tummy tuck surgery should understand that abdominoplasty is not designed as a primary fat reduction surgery or weight loss tool. Oftentimes, however, liposuction is performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck in order to remove stubborn pockets on fat in the midsection and create an even smoother, more natural final shape. Still, tummy tuck patients should already be at or near their goal weight before undergoing surgery.

Will fat come back after liposuction and tummy tuck?

The fat cells that are removed via liposuction during a tummy tuck will not return, but this doesn’t necessarily mean the cosmetic results are permanent. Weight gain can generate new fat cells and cause the remaining fat cells to become enlarged. To maintain tummy tuck results for as long as possible, it is critical that patients follow a healthy diet plan and exercise regularly to avoid weight gain.

What happens if you gain weight after a tummy tuck?

During tummy tuck recovery, patients should get plenty of rest and avoid heavy lifting, straining, and other strenuous physical activities. After you have fully recovered from tummy tuck surgery and have been cleared for physical activity, it is important to begin or resume a consistent exercise routine and maintain a healthy diet. Weight gain after tummy tuck surgery can significantly compromise your cosmetic outcome and may even reverse your results completely. For this reason, women are encouraged to defer their surgery until after they have finished having children. Should you gain weight or get pregnant again after a tummy tuck, a second or subsequent revision procedure may be used to restore your original results.

With a healthy lifestyle, you can enjoy your Newport Beach tummy tuck results for years to come

It is only natural for patients considering cosmetic surgery to wonder how long their results will last and how they can preserve their gorgeous new look for as long as possible. In addition to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, choosing a highly qualified and experienced tummy tuck surgeon can play an important role in achieving long-lasting results. Call the knowledgeable team at SSK Plastic Surgery to schedule your private in-office or virtual consultation with renowned board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sean Kelishadi today, and learn more about the exciting possibilities of tummy tuck surgery in Newport Beach, CA!