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Although tummy tucks have traditionally been seen as a feminine plastic surgery procedure, they are quickly gaining popularity for men.
Both men and women may feel self-conscious about a buildup of fat in their abdominal areas and a tummy tuck for men are customized to help men tone their figure while maintaining a masculine physique.
Traditionally, women have received tummy tuck surgery after pregnancy since the stomach stretches and leaves a buildup of fat and sagging skin. During pregnancy, the abdominal muscles are also stretched and may have been weakened so the strengthening of those muscles during surgery has an added health benefit.
The traditional tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic surgery that tones and strengthens the abdominal area. Excess skin and fat are removed through an incision along the bikini line or lower abdomen. The abdominal muscles are also tightened to strengthen the core and give patients a more toned appearance. Dr. Cruise offers many different types of tummy tuck surgery, including a full tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, extended tummy tuck, and male tummy tuck procedures.
Like the traditional tummy tuck, the goal of a male tummy tuck is to remove excess skin and fat from the stomach to create a more toned look.
Men often choose to have a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgery after weight gain that has caused excess fat and loose skin on the abdomen. During the procedure, an incision will be made along the lower abdomen below the belt line where the scar can be easily concealed. The excess tissue will be removed, and the abdominal muscles tightened to strengthen and tone them. Men will also choose to have skin etching to create the appearance of a “six-pack.”
There are a few differences between tummy tucks for men and women based on the different desired aesthetics of each gender.
Men often choose to remove fat in a pattern that enhances their six-pack while women prefer a toned, flat stomach. The curved cut along the bikini line may also look feminine so a straight incision is often made for male tummy tuck surgery. Similarly, Dr. Cruise will carefully reposition the belly button to fit the male aesthetic; female belly buttons often have softer edges and sit more vertically than male belly buttons.
Men often choose to have additional liposuction with their tummy tucks to eliminate love handles and trim down their waists. Love handles are a common term for the buildup of fat just above the hip and these are a common concern for both men and women. Eliminating this buildup of fat will help men more dramatically enhance their toned physique.
For both a traditional and men’s tummy tuck surgery, most patients can expect to return to most of their normal activities after 1-2 weeks. However, it can take several months for the swelling to completely go down and the scars to heal.
After surgery, your incisions will be covered with surgical dresses and small drainage tubes will be put in place to prevent fluid buildup. During the first few days, expect to be moderately sore and plan to rest at an elevated position. You should have a trusted family member or friend help you during these first few days since bending, lifting, and standing for long periods of time may be uncomfortable and hinder your healing process.
Before your tummy tuck, Dr. Cruise will have given you detailed instructions about caring for your incision site and dressings. You will also have several follow-up appointments during the first year of recovery so that he can monitor your recovery process.
If you are interested in a male tummy tuck and want to know whether you are a candidate, schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Cruise in Newport Beach, CA. He will be happy to discuss the tummy tuck procedure with you in more detail and answer any questions you might have.
