Can I Gain Weight Again After A Tummy Tuck?

When you make the decision to invest time, money, and your emotions into undergoing plastic surgery, it is only natural to wonder how long your results will last. Fortunately, many cosmetic procedures performed today offer patients the ability to transform their bodies – and lives – with results that can be enjoyed for years to come. However, it is important to understand that the longevity of your surgical outcome can depend heavily on the choices you make before and after the procedure. In addition, patients must have realistic expectations for their surgery and remember that the aging process will continue even after a procedure.

The tummy tuck is arguably one of the most transformative and in-demand cosmetic procedures in America year after year. Board-certified plastic surgeon and Chief of Plastic Surgery at VIP Plastic Surgery in Las Vegas, NV, Dr. Christopher Khorsandi, understands the level of commitment that goes into having a tummy tuck and is dedicated to helping his patients maintain their results for as long as possible. One of the most common questions from tummy tuck patients is whether or not they can gain weight after their surgery and what will happen if they do. To better understand this, it is important to first establish some basics about the tummy tuck procedure itself, including how it works, what to expect, and how you can ensure the best results possible.

What is a tummy tuck?

The tummy tuck, formally known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the abdominal contour by removing excess skin and fat from a patient’s midsection. In cases where a patient’s underlying abdominal muscles have separated – a common occurrence during pregnancy – Dr. Khorsandi is also able to tighten the underlying abdominal fascia during a tummy tuck, which corrects the telltale “pooch” that many women have after childbirth.

Oftentimes, a tummy tuck is combined with a breast augmentation, a breast lift, or a labiaplasty as part of a larger mommy makeover procedure. Additionally, Dr. Khorsandi may choose to add liposuction to your tummy tuck procedure to eliminate stubborn pockets of fat and further enhance your results.

Are the results of a tummy tuck permanent?

As with any invasive cosmetic surgery, the potential results are more dramatic and longer lasting than those that are possible with noninvasive alternatives. However, patients must have realistic expectations for their procedure and understand that the results of a tummy tuck can be compromised in some situations. The most common things that negatively affect the results of a tummy tuck include:

• Future pregnancy
• Weight fluctuation
• Poor diet and exercise routine

During your initial one-on-one consultation, Dr. Khorsandi will discuss your goals and concerns with you at length and will advise you on how to prolong the potential results of your tummy tuck for as long as possible.

What if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

It is always recommended that women be certain they are done having children before pursuing a tummy tuck, but Dr. Khorsandi and the caring staff at VIP Plastic Surgery understand that life doesn’t always go as planned. While pregnancy after a tummy tuck is perfectly safe, the results of your surgery can be compromised due to the weight fluctuation and other physical changes that your body will go through. This can require a second or subsequent surgery to restore the results of your original procedure, and this can be made more difficult because of the presence of scar tissue.

Is it possible to gain weight after a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck is not designed as a weight loss or fat loss tool, and it is certainly possible to gain weight after your procedure. Liposuction is often combined with a tummy tuck to remove small to moderate deposits of fat around the abdomen and further enhance your results. The fat cells removed during liposuction will never return, but future weight gain can cause the surrounding fat cells to swell and new fat cells can generate. With this in mind, it is imperative that patients maintain a healthy diet and regular fitness routine to avoid compromising the results of a tummy tuck.

Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?

While a tummy tuck is often performed on women especially after pregnancy, both men and women can benefit from the procedure, particularly as an after weight loss surgery. If you are interested in learning more about how a tummy tuck in Las Vegas, NV can help you restore or achieve a beautiful contour, the first step is to consult with a qualified, certified, and experienced plastic surgeon. Call VIP Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with Chief of Plastic Surgery Dr. Christopher Khorsandi today, and let us help you transform your look, boost your confidence, and change your life!