Posted by Laurence Weider on February 14, 2013
A study published in the February 2013 issue of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, the official medical journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, reveals that tummy tuck procedures (abdominoplasty) may contribute to significant and sustained weight loss for many patients. The findings shed light on the broader impacts of the surgery beyond aesthetic improvements.
Key Findings: Weight Loss Following Abdominoplasty
The study reported that nearly 75% of women classified as overweight or obese prior to undergoing a tummy tuck experienced substantial weight loss after the procedure. Furthermore, these patients maintained their reduced weight over the long term, suggesting a lasting impact of the surgery on weight management.
Possible Mechanisms Behind the Weight Loss
While the exact reasons for the observed weight loss remain unclear, increased satiety appears to play a crucial role. Many participants reported a diminished appetite following their tummy tuck procedure. Researchers speculate that the removal of fat during the surgery may influence hormonal levels associated with hunger, leading to reduced appetite and better weight control.
Implications for Tummy Tuck Candidates
The study’s findings align with the perspective that while patients should aim to be near their ideal weight before undergoing a tummy tuck, it is not necessary to have fully reached that goal. The potential for ongoing weight loss after the procedure can further enhance the results, allowing patients to benefit from both the immediate and long-term effects of the surgery.
Individualized Planning for Optimal Results
During an initial consultation, your goals and desired outcomes will be thoroughly discussed, and a personalized plan will be created to address your current weight and target weight. For more information about tummy tucks or other procedures, please call Weider Plastic Surgery at (972) 566-8444.
Dr. Weider, a native of Southern California, is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who has maintained a private practice in Dallas, TX since 1999. After attending Stanford University, he obtained his medical degree (M.D.) from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. He then completed a one year surgical internship in Los Angeles at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, followed by a four year general surgery residency in Dallas at Methodist Medical Center, and a two year plastic surgery fellowship in Cleveland at Case Western Reserve University.
