When people think of a “tummy tuck” – or abdominoplasty as it is properly known – they primarily consider the cosmetic benefits of the procedure. What many patients are astonished to find out are the many health benefits. This may be part of the reason that the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported an 87 percent increase in the procedure from 2000 to 2014.

The procedure that removes loose skin and fat from the abdomen so that it appears flatter and toner comes with at least three known other benefits.

Less Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI)

We’ve all heard women joke about “peeing a little” as they grow older. While possibly embarrassing or humorous, it is a natural side effect of vaginal birth and it’s known as SUI. SUI is a bladder issue that can cause women to urinate slightly when they cough, exercise, or laugh.

This can usually be treated without any surgery at all, but studies indicate that a tummy tuck can aid in healing. This is because the bladder is partially blocked slowing incontinence.

Ventral Hernia Correction

Ventral hernias are caused due to abdominal or intestinal tissue breaking through the abdominal wall and creating a pouch. This weakness can come from weight loss, appendectomies, or C-sections.

Unfortunately, when a ventral hernia is created they can come back again and again. Surgeon may consider a tummy tuck when correcting a hernia to add strength and prevent it from recurring.

Better Posture and Tone

Have you ever watched Extreme Weight Loss on television and notice the point at which they lose so much weight they need skin removal surgery? That is because with weight loss or pregnancies stomach muscles become weak. Surgery can help tighten those loose muscles and remove excess skin to flatten the tummy.

Weak muscles in your stomach can also lead to poor posture. The tightening of muscles from the procedure can assist support of the spine and lower the risk of back pain over time.

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Possible Surgical Concerns and Benefits

While abdominoplasty is quiet common it should not be considered a minor procedure. Patients may be under general anesthesia up to five hours for the operation and recuperation may take over a month.

Yet, the health benefits of a tummy tuck are quite attractive for many.