Fit and Trim...is a Tummy Tuck Crazy? (photo)

Hi Fairyrhea

If only more of our patients came to us in as good a shape!! I think you'll get a fantastic result from a tummy tuck. It will address the loose skin under your belly button (and the stretch marks) that you don't like.

Don't allow your age or the scar to deter you from chasing the shape that you really want. In patients your shape I try to place the scar along to top of the pelvic brim - feel from the pointy part of your pelvis under your jeans pocket and imagine a curved line that runs down to the top of your pelvic bone in the midline. The scar is easily hidden under all but the most brief swimmers and underwear. If you are keen on G-strings etc, it is useful to wear one to your consult with the Plastic Surgeon and check that they are comfortable in getting your scar underneath the outline.

The one caveat that I would add is to be prepared for the post operative discomfort (and time off the gym). Suturing the rectus (six-pack) muscles back in the midline is part of providing a solid base for your abdominal fat & skin. Even small divarications should be sutured back together. Being fit and having good core muscles means that you will have good tone in your obliques and transversus muscles. They will pull on those new midline stitches and you will be (temporarily) more uncomfortable than someone less fit. I have found using a catheter that drips local anaesthetic (lots of various trade names) over the sutures for a few days makes a profound improvement in post operative discomfort, especially in fit people like yourself.

I doubt you will regret the decision to proceed with a tummy tuck. Good Luck!

Dr Gavin Sandercoe

There is a misconception that if one is fit then they shouldn't have body contouring procedures. On the contrary, the effects of pregnancy are often irreversible and the is the rationale for having this type of surgery. I would say you are a perfect candidate for a tummy tuck.  The tradeoff is the  scar, but your PS should be able to make it low enough to hide under your two piece bottoms.