Do You Lose Weight After a Tummy Tuck?

The abdominal area makes many of us feel self-conscious. Accumulated fat and sagging skin can affect your confidence. Fortunately, a tummy tuck can restore your firm, flat abdomen. Many people wonder if a tummy tuck will result in weight loss. The important point to keep in mind is that a tummy tuck is not intended for weight loss. 

What is a Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty?

A tummy tuck is performed to correct sagging skin and other issues with the abdominal area. These problems often occur after pregnancy or weight loss. A tummy tuck is a customized procedure that may also repair separated abdominal muscles, a common post-pregnancy issue. You may have a tummy tuck alone or as part of a larger procedure, such as a mommy makeover.

How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

Dr. Aycock performs your tummy tuck under general anesthesia. He uses an incision along the lower part of the abdomen and removes excess skin and fat. He may reposition the belly button if the skin around it has sagged. He may also use liposuction to sculpt and shape the area. If your abdominal muscles have loosened or separated, he will use sutures to tighten and repair them, strengthening your core and giving your abdomen a more toned appearance. 

Do You Lose Weight After a Tummy Tuck?

Whether you experience a change in weight after your abdominoplasty depends on the details of your procedure. If your tummy tuck focuses on tightening loose skin, you may not notice much of a difference. Some people have a significant amount of loose skin and fat that hangs over the abdomen. All this skin and fat can weigh several pounds, so removing may cause you to lose that amount of weight. Liposuction during a tummy tuck is used for body sculpting, not weight loss. 

You should not approach a tummy tuck with the intention of losing weight. You will most likely be disappointed if you expect significant changes on the scale. Dr. Aycock will discuss the details of your procedure during your consultation and explain how much skin and fat he plans to remove. A tummy tuck will also not stop you from regaining fat in the area if you do not lead a healthy lifestyle. 

What is Recovery Like After a Tummy Tuck?

You will spend the first few days after your abdominoplasty resting and recuperating. Although we encourage you to get up and walk around the house, you should avoid putting any stress on your incisions. A compression garment will help smooth and slim the area. Most people with low-activity jobs can return to work within two weeks. Your swelling can take several months to resolve, revealing your full results over time.

Take the Next Step

To schedule your consultation, please fill out the form on this page or call Dr. Aycock’s office at (925) 937-8377 (Walnut Creek) or (415) 903-8463 (Greenbrae).