How does a tummy tuck effect abdominal strength and core athletic ability in high level athletes? (Photos)

Question

I'm planning to have the BBL wihin the next 3 months. A few Drs suggested that I have tummy tuck as well. As an athlete compete in Brzilian Jiu Jitsu on a regular basis. [BJJ is a grappling sport where you are trying to choke your opponent or attack their joints to get them to tap out. It is a very aggressive sport that relies heavily on core strength. I'm not sure I really need the tummy tuck but if I do get it, how will it effect my abdominal muscle strength and athletic performance?

Lisa Cassileth, MD, FACS · Answer

doctors, did you look at the photos? You don't need a tummy tuck. Tummy tucks are for loose or overhanging skin. I can't appreciate a rectus diastasis, which is a muscle split after pregnancy, in your photos, but if you have that it can be fixed independently of a tummy tuck by surgeons through a csection type incision. And while we are at it why are you getting a bbl? Sheesh!

Adam David Lowenstein, MD, FACS · Answer

There are two reasons that many women have a tummy tuck- one is that there is extra skin to be removed, and the second is that there is a separation of the rectus muscles (the six-pack) that causes a protrusion of the abdominal wall, like a mild pot belly.  When the abdominal muscles are separated, there is only a thin tissue connecting them in the midline, and this tissue is a weak region that does not add, and in fact detracts from abdominal strength.Repairing the abdominal tissue, or diastasis, re-connects the abdominal muscles to each other and re-establishes the strong cylinder which is what a solid "core" requires.  While the immediate postoperative period will require a few weeks of healing, after this period a successful tummy tuck often leaves patients stronger than they were before their operation.Best wishes, Dr. L

Ali Mosharrafa, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck will not interfere with any athletic activities once you are fully healed.  This may take up to 6 months, however.
Hope this helps.
Dr. Ali Mosharrafa

David Finkle, MD · Answer

A tummy tuck is a wonderful operation which typically includes skin removal, fat removal and muscle repair.  Every procedure is individualized to each patient.  A thorough examination and consultation is necessary before any recommendation, but it does appear that liposuction alone (not a tummy tuck) would be adequate and provide a quicker recovery time.A formal tummy tuck would not weaken core body strength, in fact it probably would improve it!Good Luck!

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!Thanks for the question and provided information as well.Based on your photos i don't think you need a tummy tuck (maybe in a person to person evaluation it's different), but in case you need it, the recovery time will depend on each patient. And the time recommended to start doing exercises involving the abdominal muscles is 1 year.Remember to look a board certified plastic surgeon for a good evaluation and to talk about your goals and concerns.Good luck :)

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

I think you should consider having high definition liposuction using a)vaser ultrasound technology; b)power x liposuction cannulas c)Cool Helium plasma skin tightening which will remove all of your fat and tighten you skin. This alternative will not affect your musculature and will literally provide you a four pack and more. Please make a consultation with a Vaser specialist.

Jon A. Perlman, MD (retired) · Answer

If you've had one or more pregnancies, it's safe to assume that you have some muscle separation that would be improved with a tummy tuck.  If this is confirmed during a face to face consultation, I would expect that it would help your core strength to some degree and not hurt it.Meet with an ABPS Bd Certified plastic surgeon for an exam and consultation.  Remember though that after surgery you will need to rest your stomach and stomach muscles to allow for strengthening of the muscle repair and complete healing.  Also keep in mind that it becomes more difficult during recovery when you need to protect both your tummy tuck and BBL from trauma during the healing period. Only you can decide whether the flattening of your stomach will be worth the time taken off from working out.Best wishes,Jon A Perlman MD FACS 
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
  
Member, ASAPS, ASPS
  
Extreme Makeover Surgeon, ABC TV 
  
Best of Los Angeles Award 2015, 2016 
  
Beverly Hills, Ca

How does a tummy tuck effect abdominal strength and core athletic ability in high level athletes? (Photos)

Answers (7)

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