With so many factors contributing to unwanted belly fat, it’s no wonder so many are turning to cosmetic surgery to achieve a flat tummy. A sedentary lifestyle or overeating are a couple of the main culprits of an ever-expanding waistline, but some midsections seem to be completely resistant to even the strictest diet and exercise regimens. Read on to see if your belly type qualifies you for the latest abdominal contouring procedures.
The Beer Belly
Men and women alike can experience a “beer belly,” a protruding midsection which feels hard rather than squishy. More often than not, these types of abdomens result from visceral fat, which is fat that resides deep inside the abdomen and surrounds the organs. For the best results with a tummy tuck, most surgeons recommend that these patients lose weight before surgery. A tummy tuck or liposuction can remove subcutaneous fat, which is fat located beneath the skin, but neither procedure will remove deep, visceral fat. The results from surgery on this type of abdomen would be good, but not excellent. Fortunately, visceral fat is much easier to lose through diet and exercise than subcutaneous fat.
The Post-Pregnancy Belly
Women who have finished having children are usually excellent candidates for tummy tuck surgery. Pregnancy stretches the skin and separates the abdominal muscles, and a tummy tuck specifically addresses these issues. Stretch marks from pregnancy can also be removed if they are located on the skin that will be trimmed away.
The Stubborn Lower “Pooch”
Many people – especially women – have trouble losing fat in their lower abdomen. Sometimes the fat is difficult to lose because the muscles beneath have been separated. Sagging skin can also cause unwanted volume in the area. A tummy tuck can address both of these issues. When a women has excess fat but not excess skin or stretched abdominal muscles in her lower abdomen, liposuction alone can easily achieve a flat and attractive tummy. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for liposuction or tummy tuck surgery is to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons here at Austin Plastic Surgery Institute. Our team has achieved successful and beautiful results for patients with many diverse body types and desired outcomes. Please call us today at (512) 327-3773 to schedule your appointment.
