What Type Of Tummy Tuck Eliminates Abdominal Stretch Marks?

By: Dr. J. Timothy Katzen

8/20/2020

Suppose you’ve had children or have experienced a significant weight fluctuation. In that case, you probably have some stretch marks to show for it. In fact, men and women develop stretch marks simply as their bodies age naturally. Having stretch marks can be frustrating and embarrassing, often leading a person to cover up with oversized clothing or avoid certain situations altogether – like going to the beach.

Internationally renowned plastic surgeon, Dr. Timothy Katzen, and the expert team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills’ fully understands the negative impact that stretch marks can have on a person’s appearance, happiness, and overall quality of life. Utilizing the most advanced and effective procedures and treatments available, Dr. Katzen is proud to help patients improve the appearance of stretch marks and feel confident and comfortable in their skin once again. Learn more about a well-known procedure, the tummy tuck, and how it may be useful in addressing your abdominal stretch marks.

What causes stretch marks?

Believe it or not, stretch marks are a form of scarring. Stretch marks occur when the skin changes significantly over a short time. Stretching of the skin causes small ruptures of the collagen and elastin within the skin. Common causes and risk factors of stretch marks include:

  • Exceptional weight fluctuation over a short period, including weight loss

  • Rapid muscle gain

  • Pregnancy

  • Genetics

How are stretch marks treated?

Most stretch marks start as red or pink lines, then fade to a more neutral, white hue over time. As stretch marks continue to fade, they often become less noticeable. However, these constant skin reminders can still be a source of frustration for many men and women. Most people first turn to over-the-counter products to try and treat their stretch marks at home. Unfortunately, the vast majority of topical stretch mark treatments and creams are ineffective or inconsistent. It is essential to keep in mind that a stretch mark is a scar, meaning topical ointments are unlikely to impact its appearance. The best way to find out what options you have for stretch mark treatment in Beverly Hills is to consult an experienced, plastic surgeon, like Dr. Katzen.

Should I have a tummy tuck to get rid of stretch marks?

You’re probably familiar with some of the fantastic enhancements a tummy tuck can make. However, you may be surprised to learn that it can also be a solution for stretch marks. The primary component in tummy tuck surgery is excess abdominal skin and fat removal and abdominal muscle tightening. In many cases, stretch marks from pregnancy and weight loss are present on the excess abdominal skin removed during a tummy tuck, meaning they are removed right along with it! Additional benefits of tummy tuck surgery include:

  • Achieve a flatter, slimmer, smoother midsection

  • Reposition belly button

  • Tighten separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)

  • Improve pooch or pouch appearance

  • Correct hernia

  • Achieve an hour - glass figure

  • Eliminate C - section scar

Which type of tummy tuck do I need?

Tummy tuck surgery is a highly personalized procedure. During your consultation, Dr. Katzen will carefully examine your areas of concern, including your abdominal stretch marks, to determine which tummy tuck method can help you most closely achieve your goals. The three main types of tummy tuck surgery include:

  • Full tummy tuck: In a full tummy tuck, Dr. Katzen will place a horizontal incision on the lower abdomen that extends nearly from hip to hip. The precise length of the incision will depend on how much skin needs to be removed, and if any other issues need to be corrected. Often, liposuction will be utilized to eliminate small pockets of fat and create an even smoother final contour. The loose skin is then excised, and the remaining skin is pulled tightly over the abdomen. The lower abdomen stretch marks on the removed skin will be gone, and any remaining stretch marks will likely be less noticeable on a more taut abdomen.

  • Extended tummy tuck: For patients with an abundance of excess, hanging skin, an extended tummy tuck may be recommended. This procedure involves a lengthier incision. The extended tummy tuck incision extends around the hips. This extension allows Dr. Katzen to address concerns on the hips and upper outer thighs.

  • Mini tummy tuck: When patients have a mild amount of loose skin or a moderate pooch-like shape on the lower abdomen only, a mini tummy tuck can be a fantastic option. A mini tummy tuck requires a smaller incision compared to a full or extended tummy tuck. To patients, a mini tummy tuck means less scarring, than a full or extended tummy tuck.

When it comes to choosing the tummy tuck that can best help with stretch marks, excess skin, and other concerns, a full tummy tuck is often a good fit for many men and women. However, the best way to determine which procedure is right for you is to seek a knowledgeable and experienced plastic surgeon, like Dr, Katzen.

Say goodbye to stretch marks with tummy tuck surgery in Beverly Hills, CA.

Don’t spend another day or dollar on expensive creams and potions that aren’t working. Get rid of your stretch marks once and for all with tummy tuck surgery. If you are ready to finally be able to show off your skin with pride, call the friendly team at J. Timothy Katzen, M.D. Beverly Hills, to schedule your private consultation with world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Timothy Katzen today!

Call TODAY to schedule a consultation. For your convenience, Dr. Katzen has offices in Beverly Hills, CA, Las Vegas, NV, and Dubai. 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.