Is 50 Too Old for a Tummy Tuck

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a plastic surgery procedure that is designed to remove loose skin, tighten loose or weak abdominal muscles, and firm the stomach area. Many patients have a tummy tuck procedure after pregnancy to get back their pre-baby body.

At Advanced Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa, we offer a couple of different types of tummy tucks: a traditional tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck. A mini tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen, while a full tummy tuck addresses the whole abdomen.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Full Tummy Tuck?

There are no tummy tuck age limits, but there are some considerations that will need to be made regardless of your age.

The best candidates for tummy tuck surgery are:

• Nonsmokers
• In generally good health
• Close to their goal BMI
• Able to take time to recover
• Willing to follow pre- and postoperative instructions
• Willing to take steps to maintain results

Having realistic expectations is also very important. Tummy tuck surgery can tone, trim, and define the midsection of the body and remove excess skin, but its transformative abilities are limited by factors including the natural anatomy of the patient.

During your initial consultation, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Levi Young will listen to your concerns, assess your problem areas, and provide honest information about what abdominoplasty can help you accomplish.

What Does Tummy Tuck Correct?

Tummy tuck surgery can address:

• Separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
• Loose and sagging skin around the belly, hips, and waist
• Stubborn fat deposits on and around the belly
• Stretch marks

With this cosmetic procedure, excess fat and skin are removed from the frame to reduce bulk and help produce a smooth and well-defined appearance. In doing so, stretch marks are often eliminated as well.

A Note on Diastasis Recti

Diastasis recti is common in women who have had more than one child. This condition increases risks for low back pain and can allow herniation. It can also produce a noticeable bulge in the belly that will not respond to diet or exercise.

When abdominal muscles are reattached during tummy tuck surgery, the waist is drawn in as well, helping to produce a slimmer and more attractive figure. Strengthening the abdominal wall also helps improve comfort and balance, and can help ensure ideal posture as you age. This is just as important for people in their 20s as people 50 and older, making tummy tuck a suitable surgical procedure for ideal candidates of all ages.

Tummy Tuck Results and Recovery

While you may see some results immediately, it can take several weeks for the swelling and bruising to dissipate. During this time, you will want to rest as much as possible, avoid strenuous activities, take any prescribed medication, and follow all aftercare instructions. In the first months of your healing process, you will have a visible tummy tuck scar at the incision site, but it will fade as you heal.

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