Will Tummy Tuck Surgery Get Rid of My Stretch Marks?

Tummy tuck surgery, also called abdominoplasty, is designed to shape the abdomen and tighten sagging skin that can’t be remedied with diet and exercise. The result is a more flat and toned stomach and abdominals. But for many patients, getting the ideal look also requires getting rid of troublesome stretch marks.

At Jeffrey LaGrasso M.D. in Miami, FL, patients considering a tummy tuck can get a customized consultation with board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso to understand what tummy tuck surgery can do for them.

Below, we’ll look at the benefits of a tummy tuck and what it may and may not be able to do when it comes to dealing with stretch marks.

What are the benefits of a tummy tuck?

A tight and toned stomach isn’t the only thing a tummy tuck can provide to patients in Miami, FL. Depending on the type of surgery performed (a mini tummy tuck vs. a full tummy tuck, for example) results can include:

• The reduction of stubborn fat pockets (especially when accompanied by liposuction)

• Improved posture

• A flat belly

• Tighter abdominal muscles

• Reduction in the appearance of stretch marks

• A boost in self-confidence

If you want to address other cosmetic issues, there are surgical procedures that can accompany a tummy tuck for some patients, such as liposuction. However, liposuction can sometimes worsen the appearance of stretch marks.

How can a tummy tuck get rid of stretch marks?

Pregnancy and any significant weight loss can sometimes result in minor scarring to the skin, referred to as stretch marks. That’s because sudden changes in weight cause collagen and elastin cells to rupture. As they heal, they leave behind stretch marks. Fluctuating hormones and genetics can also cause stretch marks. But the causes of these scars aren’t always clear.

Stretch marks are stubborn scars, and depending on where they appear on the abdomen, they may or may not be affected by a tummy tuck. This is largely dependent on how severe they are and their location on or near your abdomen. For example, a tummy tuck may drastically reduce the appearance of stretch marks if they are mild and occur between your bikini line and belly button. If they are severe and occur outside of this area, a tummy tuck is unlikely to help.

If you are genetically predisposed to stretch marks, a tummy tuck may help temporarily, but the scars can also return more easily.

Stretch marks aren’t dangerous, but they can affect a person’s self-esteem and mental health. They may appear as pink, purple, reddish, or dark brown scars, depending on a patient’s skin color. As the color of stretch marks fades, they can sink beneath the skin, causing a depression. That makes them even tougher to remove.

Dr. LaGrasso can discuss your unique situation with you and give you a straightforward assessment of if a tummy tuck surgery can get rid of your stretch marks. While the surgery does tighten skin, it may not be able to tighten it enough to remove the appearance of stretch marks entirely.

Getting rid of stretch marks in Miami, FL

?Board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Jeffrey LaGrasso is experienced in tummy tuck surgery and other cosmetic techniques that can help you get the slim look you want. Schedule a consultation at Jeffrey LaGrasso M.D. and find out more about your options.