It is estimated that roughly 140,000 abdominoplasty procedures are performed in the U.S. each year, making it the 6th most common surgical procedure. Its ability to extract excess abdominal tissue and improve the body’s contours has helped it grow in popularity. While the surgery is most often performed to address cosmetic concerns, there is also a litany of medical benefits that patients can enjoy as well.
Men and women all over the world have experienced miraculous changes in their bodies thanks to abdominoplasty, otherwise known as a tummy tuck procedure. If certain criteria are met, this life-altering treatment can be covered by insurance policies. Understanding what a tummy tuck does and when it is considered a medical necessity can potentially help patients save big on their surgery.
What is the objective of abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is most often considered to be a cosmetic procedure. This is simply due to the fact that it works by removing excess skin from the midsection and tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall. In most cases, patients seek out this procedure after undergoing a pregnancy or losing a large amount of weight. While the procedure achieves major aesthetic improvements, there are also functional reasons for it.
For example, excess sagging skin in the midsection may prevent patients from carrying out everyday tasks.
Medical reasons for tummy tuck surgery
While most body contouring procedures are carried out to address cosmetic concerns, there are still various cases in which abdominoplasty is medically necessary. Here are just a few conditions that may call for the procedure:
Diastasis recti
After undergoing one or multiple pregnancies, it is not uncommon for women to struggle with loose abdominal muscles. This condition is referred to as diastasis recti and can lead to serious medical issues such as stress incontinence. Abdominoplasty can help by tightening and repositioning the underlying musculature.
Hernia
Pregnancy and childbirth can also cause hernias, which result in the intestines pushing through certain weak spots in the abdominal walls. Undergoing an abdominoplasty procedure can help prevent this from occurring by strengthening the abdominal wall.
Back pain
Patients who lose a significant amount of weight often struggle with heavy abdominal skin, which can result in bad posture and troubling back pain. Patients who are struggling to deal with the weight of excess sagging or hanging skin can rely on a tummy tuck procedure to restore their mobility.
What is the takeaway?
While tummy tuck procedures are often thought to be strictly cosmetic treatments, they can drastically improve a patient’s quality of life. Patients who are struggling with hernias, back pain, and loose abdominal muscles can finally feel relief by choosing to undergo this treatment. As with any treatment, it is highly recommended that patients seek out a skilled, experienced practitioner to perform their tummy tuck procedure. Prioritizing expertise is a surefire way to guarantee the best outcome possible.
At Engineered Aesthetics, we provide private consultations to help our patients get started on the road to an improved quality of life. Reach out to our office today to schedule an appointment.
