Does Tummy Tuck Get Rid of Stretch Marks?
Ever felt worried about those tiger stripes on your stomach? You are not the only one. Though this is an all too common dilemma for many women, it does not mean you have to accept them as part of your life. So, what are your options?
You could turn to topical treatments like lotions and creams. But let’s face it – we all know how disappointing those treatments can be. The results are temporary – if are even visible. Not to mention, they are often expensive and time-consuming to apply. So, what about a more permanent solution?
Tummy tucks is the cosmetic surgery that can help you achieve a flatter, firmer stomach. But does it get rid of stretch marks? Let’s have a look.
What Are Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks are a common side effect of pregnancy, weight gain, weight loss, or body-building. They occur when the skin is stretched beyond its normal capacity, causing the collagen and elastin fibers to break. As the skin heals, these proteins rebuild, but they often do so in a different way than the original tissue. As a result, stretch marks tend to be very narrow and have a red or purple hue, but they eventually fade to a whitish-silver color.
While stretch marks can occur anywhere on the body, they are most commonly found on the abdomen, breasts, thighs, and hips. Even though stretch marks are usually harmless, many people find them unsightly, which is why they turn to treatments like tummy tuck surgery.
What Causes Stretch Marks?
When your body grows quickly for any reason, stretch marks may appear on the skin. This is because the skin doesn’t have enough collagen, a protein that helps keep skin elastic, to keep pace with the rate of growth.
Without enough collagen, the skin stretches and breaks, resulting in the formation of stretch marks.
There are several reasons why you may get stretch marks:
- Growth during puberty
- Sudden weight gain or loss
- Pregnancy
- Bodybuilding
- Cushing’s Syndrome
- Marfan Syndrome
- Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
There is no cure-all treatment for stretch marks, but there are several ways to help improve their appearance, such as using moisturizers or exfoliating the skin. Some people also choose to get laser therapy or tattooing to help camouflage the marks.
Ways to Prevent Stretch Marks
The million-dollar question is if we can prevent stretch marks from ever appearing in the first place. Unfortunately, there is no surefire way to prevent stretch marks. However, there are a few things you can do to help reduce the risk of stretch mark appearance:
Maintain a healthy weight:
The best way to prevent stretch marks is to maintain the skin’s elasticity. Make sure that your skin stays hydrated by drinking plenty of water and following a healthy diet. Applying a topical cream or lotion that contains cocoa butter, shea butter, or vitamin E can also help to keep the skin moisturized.
Gain weight gradually:
If you are underweight or need to gain weight for any reason, do so gradually. Sudden weight gain is more likely to cause stretch marks. The skin stretches more when the weight gain is rapid, so it is best to gain weight slowly to give the skin time to adjust.
Follow a healthy diet:
Eating food rich in vitamins and minerals can help keep your skin healthy and prevent stretch marks. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Exercise:
Exercise can help improve the appearance of stretch marks by increasing blood flow to the area and helping to build up collagen.
Does Tummy Tuck Get Rid Stretch Marks?
While a tummy tuck can be an effective way to get rid of stretch marks, it depends on the location of the stretch marks in relation to the surgery. If the stretch marks are below the belly button, they will likely be removed; however, those above the belly button will still be visible. The marks in this area may potentially be less noticeable after surgery, but the results will vary from patient to patient. In general, patients who have lighter skin are more likely to see a significant improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks after a tummy tuck.
If you are considering a tummy tuck and would like to improve the appearance of your stretch marks, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and esthetic expectations. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your individual case and determine whether or not you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck surgery.
Stretch Mark Treatment After Surgery
Following a tummy tuck, many patients report an improvement in the appearance of their stretch marks. Though the surgery will not completely eliminate the marks, there are a few things that can be done to further reduce their appearance.
In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the medical treatment of stretch marks. Skin doctors and plastic surgeons now have access to lasers and other treatments that can help the skin make more collagen including:
- Laser Therapy
- Microdermabrasion
- Chemical Peels
- Radio Frequency
In addition, it is important for patients to avoid UV exposure, as this can cause the markings to become more visible. By being diligent in sunscreen application and staying out of direct sunlight, patients can help to keep their stretch marks from becoming permanent.
If you are interested in exploring treatment options for your stretch marks, be sure to consult with a qualified skin doctor or plastic surgeon. They will be able to assess your individual case and recommend the best course of treatment.
Remove Your Unsightly Stretch Marks Today!
Dr. Demetris Stavrou is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has helped countless patients achieve the toned and smooth skin they desire. Dr. Stavrou uses his extensive knowledge and experience in the field of plastic surgery to provide his patients with the best possible results.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Demetris Stavrou and his team at EIPS Clinic to learn more about how he can help you achieve your cosmetic goals.
Dr Stavrou is a board-certified and highly experienced plastic surgeon in Cyprus, Greece and Malta, with a keen interest in informing patients about the latest updates on reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery.
- University of Athens Medical School
- Residency in Plastic Surgery at the Chaim Sheba Medical Center at Tel-Hashomer, Israel
- Assistant Professor, St George’s, University of London / Medical School at the University of Nicosia
- Honorary Tutor at the University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, UK
- MSc with Distinction in “Wound Healing and Tissue Repair”, University of Cardiff, School of Medicine, U.K
- Fellow of the European Board of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery (EBOPRAS)
- International Member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS)
- ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) Instructor
- Fellowship in “Advanced Aesthetic Surgery” from the Melbourne Institute of Plastic Surgery – Monash University, Australia
- Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
- Brow Lift
- Chin Augmentation
- Facelift
- Facial Cancer Treatment
- Neck Lift
- Otoplasty
- Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
