Should an aerialist (circus arts performer) get a tummy tuck WITH muscle repair? (Photo)

Question

I am 5’ 11” 215 and have had 3 children. I was hoping to get a get a tummy tuck with muscle repair and a BBL. However, I heard if I got a tummy tuck I would no longer be able to perform Aerial silks or circus arts. It is ALL CORE strength. If I just got the TT without the MR then maybe that would be okay? I don’t mind not being able to perform for 6-12 weeks but not forever! I just want a flat stomach and waist.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Generally speaking, your strength should return once you’ve recovered. However, it is important that you take a few months off to allow your body to recover. This may be longer than three months depending on how you do and the opinion of your surgeon.

Luis A. Mejia, MD · Answer

Wanting a flat abdomen and defined waist without compromising your performance is completely reasonable.

In my opinion, a tummy tuck with muscle repair does not permanently reduce core strength. The repair restores muscles separated by pregnancy; it doesn’t weaken them long term. For high-demand activities like aerial silks, the limitation is temporary during healing and retraining.

A tummy tuck without muscle repair may allow earlier flexibility, but often won’t achieve the flatness or waist definition you’re seeking if muscle separation is present.

Whenever you’re ready:
Let’s make it better.

Warmly,
Dr. Luis Mejía, MD
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
CECILIP – Dominican Republic

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

You can definitely get it done with muscle repair. Having a TT WITHOUT MUSCKE REPAIR is not worth it in your case. You just have to respect the post op process and start slowly after about three months. 
Dr. Miguel Mota

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

I have never operated on a aerialist!  I have operated on many athletes though and universally they felt their core strength improve with muscle repair during a TT.  I think your flexibility would slowly return to normal (about 3-6months).  Best Wishes!!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jdowning,
based on your photos, you look like a good candidate for a TT. Full tummy tuck should tighten your abdominal muscles and remove the excess skin. Once you are fully healed, you should be able to continue with your activities. Flanks liposuction would give you a better shape. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon because only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You will be able to gradually return to exercise as you heal from your tummy tuck with muscle repair.  It will be need to wait a few months before doing dedicated core work, but over time you will be able to build back up to what you do now.  The key is listening to your body and your surgeon's instructions.  See a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.