Bloated Look and Hanging Skin? (photo)

Question

I am 39, 5'4", 148lbs with a history of two c sections with some deep stretch marks and some loose skin. When relaxed I can look about 5 months pregnant!! Is this corrected? I feel like even if the fat and skin were removed my belly would still stick out. I exercise regularly but cannot improve this area. Please tell me if the bloating look would be corrected and what type of surgery you would suggest. Thank you!!

James F. Boynton, MD, FACS · Answer

You are a great candidate for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). The loose skin and stretched out appearance will be corrected by a tummy tuck. I think you will be really glad you did it. Make sure to see a board certified plastic surgeon for this.

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

From your photos, you look like an excellent candidate for an abdominoplasty including tightening of your abdominal muscles. This will correct your excess skin and improve the loose muscle wall that is causing your pooch.

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

A tummy tuck (also called abdominoplasty) is a very popular cosmetic surgery procedure. A tummy tuck can be an effective tool for shaping and sculpting the body for better body appearance and improved self esteem.

	Sometimes no amount of diet and exercise can create a flat tummy. Tummy tuck plastic surgery actually tightens abdominal muscles and removes excess fat and skin from the stomach area to create a tighter, slimmer, smoother belly. A tummy tuck can be combined with other procedures such as liposuction of your waists or flanks (i.e. love handles) to fine tune your result

	Patients choose abdominoplasty cosmetic surgery for a number of reasons, including:

	Excess abdominal skin following weight loss; Weight gain (beer belly or spare tire) from a sedentary lifestyle; Abdominal fat that is resistant to diet and exercise; Stretched stomach muscles from pregnancy; Desire for a thinner profile; Desire to look younger and fitter; Desire to fit into clothes better.

	I recommend you visit with an ASPS member plastic surgeon to further explore your options and to find out if you are a candidate for this procedure.

	Best wishes!

	Dr. Basu

	Houston, TX

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Yes I agree with the tummy tuck + muscle repair to achieve the rersults you desire. Seek in person consults from boarded PSs in your city.

Brian J. Lee, MD · Answer

By your description and photos you are a good candidate for a tummy tuck. This will remove stretch marks below the umbilicus while tightening the laxity of the muscles. The most important aspect in your case is to tighten the muscles as this is the main cause of the "bloated" appearance you are experiencing.

Bloated Look and Hanging Skin? (photo)

Answers (9)