Hello. I'm 18 years old I work out, eat right, and try so hard to lose the weight around my mid section. My skin has always been loose, and my belly button always seemed almost 'collapsed' in. Ive done everything I could from weight training, to binding, to change my waist. I'm 5'5, and about 180 pounds. My body overall is pretty toned, except for my stomach. I don't plan on having children for at least 7 years from now.(ive even saved 10,000 dollars for this)
Answer
It looks like you’d probably benefit from a tummy tuck to remove the loose skin and excess fat you have in your mid-section. However, you should carefully consider whether having a tummy tuck now before you have children is a prudent choice for you. As you know, the results from your surgery will be negatively affected with pregnancy.
Dr. Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Thank you for your question. Based on your photos you would benefit from removing the extra skin in the form of a tummy tuck. Sometimes Lipo will tighten some of the skin but because you have this problem in the first place I don't think your skin has good tone in that area so that it would bounce back to a tight level after Lipo alone. The question is are you willing to trade the scar that comes with a tummy tuck for the improved form? Also you most likely will need another tummy tuck down the line if you have kids. If you are ok with the scar then I think a tummy tuck might be the best operation. Best to speak to a board certified plastic surgeon in person. All the best,
Dr. Keshav Magge, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Thanks for your question and for the photos. From your pictures you appear to have enough skin laxity for a tummy tuck, but an in person pinch test would be needed to be sure.Timing and scars need to be strongly considered. The scar is forever which at 18 is a long time. Child bearing is a game changer and when you have kids you may need another tummy tuck. Liposuction will depend on your skin tone in the areas you are considering. Good skin tone and the skin will shrink up. poor skin tone and the skin will become looser. An in person exam can help your PS to guide you.In my own practice when I see patient your age for tummy tuck it is usually after massive weight loss. The trade off of the scars is usually very much worth it in making these patients feel normal again. It would have to be worth it to you as well.Final thoughts. Tummy tuck and liposuction streamlines people, but they are not weight loss tools. A tummy tuck can make you more streamlined at your height and weight but not make you rail thin. Best wishes.
Dr. Adam Tattelbaum, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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I would not recommend a tummy tuck at this young age especially if you have never had children. Although an in-person exam would be required to see if you have congenital rectus diastasis. At your age, with usually excellent skin elasticity, I think liposuction(with or wihtout laser) of your abdomen, will give you excellent results and make you happy. You can then think about getting a full tummy tuck after childbearing is completed. Please see atleast a couple of board certified plastic surgeons for opinions in your area. Good luck !
Dr. Shwetambara Parakh, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answer
Hello and thank you for your question. The best advice for you will come from an in-person consultation. Based on your
Dr. Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
