Can A Tummy Tuck Help Relieve Back Pain?

By: Dr. J. Timothy Katzen

9/23/2020

There’s no doubt that tummy tuck is one of the most transformative cosmetic procedures available today. You may be surprised to learn, however, that the benefits of tummy tuck surgery extend far beyond skin removal and body sculpting. From possible improved bladder function and pain relief, the functional benefits of a tummy tuck are, arguably, just as compelling as the cosmetic enhancements. Award-winning plastic surgeon Dr. Timothy Katzen and the exceptional team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills are proud to offer the most advanced and effective surgical tools and techniques to help men and women achieve their ultimate cosmetic and functional goals through a tummy tuck.

What does a tummy tuck do?

Formally known as an abdominoplasty, tummy tuck surgery is primarily used to create a slimmer, firmer, more appealing abdominal contour through skin and removal and abdominal wall reconstruction. Whether a patient has developed excess, sagging skin due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging, a tummy tuck provides the life-changing opportunity to rid themselves of the extra skin, and feel more comfortable and confident about their looks.

Does tummy tuck surgery help you lose weight?

Patients considering a tummy tuck in Beverly Hills should have realistic expectations for their results and understand that the tummy tuck procedure is not designed as a substitute for weight loss. In fact, patients should already be at or near their goal weight and have maintained that weight for at least three months prior to undergoing an abdominoplasty. In many cases, liposuction is performed during a tummy tuck to eliminate small pockets of stubborn fat and further enhance the final results, but most tummy tucks are not meant to be large-volume fat removal surgery.

What are the medical benefits of tummy tuck surgery?

In the majority of cases, the main objective for tummy tuck patients is to restore or achieve a more attractive abdominal core physique. However, many men and women are able to address or improve additional cosmetic, functional, or medical concerns during tummy tuck surgery. Some of the most common secondary benefits of tummy tuck surgery include:

  • Correct diastasis recti

  • Fix a hernia

  • Improved posture

  • Improved urinary continence

  • Boosted confidence

Can a tummy tuck relieve lower back pain?

While there is no guarantee that tummy tuck surgery will result in symptom relief, many patients report a dramatic improvement in their lower back pain following the abdominoplasty. This is often due to the strengthening and tightening of the abdominal muscles that can be performed during the abdominoplasty.

For patients who have undergone pregnancy and childbirth, or those that have experienced significant weight loss, a separation of the abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) is a common occurrence. When this happens, the patient’s midsection is often weakened, which results in poor posture and a number of other issues. During tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Katzen utilizes advanced surgical techniques to realign, tighten, and reinforce the abdominal fascia. Not only can a tummy tuck correct the classic abdominal pouch, but correcting diastasis recti may also dramatically improve posture and relieve chronic back pain.

However, it is important for patients to understand there are a variety of potential causes for back pain that aren’t treated with an abdominoplasty. Patients should first rule out nerve damage, herniated disk, arthritis, orthopedic problems, and other possible sources of their back pain before undergoing tummy tuck surgery.

Can tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?

In most cases, tummy tuck can safely and successfully be paired with complementary procedures to help patients achieve an even more dramatic transformation. For example, patients who have lost a great deal of weight often combine tummy tuck with arm lift, thigh lift, and upper body lift. Also, women who have had children may choose to undergo breast augmentation and tummy tuck together as part of a mommy makeover procedure. Common treatments and procedures that are combined with tummy tuck include:

During your initial consultation at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills, Dr. Katzen will thoroughly evaluate your concerns, discuss your goals, and recommend a customized surgical plan that best fits your needs.

Enhance your physique and improve your overall quality of life with an abdominoplasty in Beverly Hills, CA

If you are embarrassed about wrinkled, sagging abdominal skin, or if you are struggling with back pain related to poor posture or diastasis recti, tummy tuck surgery may be your solution. Call TODAY to schedule a consultation. Physical or virtual consultations can be arranged. Virtual consultation options include FaceTime, Zoom, Skype, and WhatsApp. Call TODAY at (310) 859 - 7770 to schedule your FREE consultation to achieve the tummy of your dreams.

BEFORE AND AFTER

* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.