Would a tummy tuck help with my scoliosis back pain and with my ab muscle flexibility?

Although it is conceivable that a TT may improve the ability to strengthen the abdominal musculature, chronic back pain should be addressed by a neuro or orthopedic surgeon. TT with diastasis repair is the only way to “re-tighten” the muscles. No PS can guarantee that the surgery will relieve back pain although some patients do experience improved core strength and pain relief.

If you are not planning future pregnancies, I recommend abdominoplasty with mesh reinforcement.  The mesh adds mechanical strength as well as increases the mechanical strength of the muscle by shortening the overstretched muscle.  The mesh also creates a more hourglass figure by compressing the abdominal wall resulting in early satiety and helps maintain a reduced weight.  Best Wishes,Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Thank you for your question!  A tummy tuck will address excess skin & repair of muscle.  The abdominal wall can be weakened after pregnancy and (or) significant weight gain & loss.  By repairing the muscle, not only does the appearance of your abdominal area improve, but your core strength as well.  The repair of the muscle will cinch your waist like an inner corset, which will accentuate your curves. Your expectations and health will dictate the best procedure(s) for you. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals.  Best of luck!
Dr Dhaval Patel
Double Board Certified
Plastic Surgeon
Chicago
Hoffman Estates 
Oakbrook 
Orland Park

Thank you for your question.It is difficult to say if surgery would change anything with the Scoliosis. I would assume that it is not going to change anything, unless you have a lot of excess weight/skin in the abdomen that needs to be removed, then that might help a little.

I don’t think anyone can predict whether a tummy tuck will affect your scoliosis or pain in any way. However there is often benefit from removing the excess weight and tightening the muscles. Hopefully you would get some relief if only partial.

Dear CoffeeAndCurls,
tummy tuck is not designed as a surgery to help with scoliosis. If your scoliosis is causing issues with back pain, then you should visit your orthopedic surgeon and get an examination. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. 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

Thank you for sharing your question.  Although a tummy tuck with muscle repair or tightening will likely improve your symptoms, but it would be impossible to promise that it will.  I would do the tummy tuck if you like the multiple aesthetic benefits it can provide with the possibility that it improves some of your discomfort.  Hope this helps.

Photos would help to provide a more detailed answer, however it sounds like you may be a good candidate for traditional tummy tuck with abdominal wall muscle placation. Pregnancy can play havoc on a woman’s abdomen and the muscle plication performed during tummy tuck acts like an internal girdle and greatly improves contour. I have seen this operation have a positive effect on individuals with chronic back pain, because the tightened abdominal wall muscles better support the lower back, improving pain and discomfort. Consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon in your area to greatly increase your chances for the safest and best result. Good luck.

It's hard to predict how a tummy tuck will influence your back pain from scoliosis.  It will definitely address the abdominal wall laxity that you have, giving you a tighter and flatter abdomen.  In addition excess skin and fat will be removed.  I encourage you to meet with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.