The abdomen is an area where many of us experience changes in the texture and tone of the skin, either due to aging, weight gain or the big changes that occur to the stomach during pregnancy. In all of these cases, the skin of the stomach can be left loose and we may feel self conscious or unhappy with how it looks. While the skin is naturally elastic and resilient, it cannot always bounce back from such changes with diet and exercise alone. In this article we discuss some popular treatment options that can help you regain a firmer and flatter tummy and ultimately, a more positive body image.
Thermage® for skin tightening.
Sometimes, the quality of the skin of the stomach is our main concern. For patients with mild to moderate concerns with skin laxity on the abdomen, a Thermage® treatment is an excellent option to firm and tighten the skin. Thermage® uses focused radiofrequency energy to deliver heat into the dermis of the skin. The collagen fibres are remodelled in response and the synthesis of new collagen is activated. The treatment is completely non-invasive, requiring no anaesthetic as the delivered energy bi-passes the epidermis. Often one treatment is sufficient to achieve a desirable result. An immediate tightening effect is experienced with further improvements arising as collagen continues to develop over the weeks and months following the treatment.
Abdominoplasty.
When loose skin hangs in folds due to aging, pregnancy or weight loss, a surgical approach may be necessary to effectively address such concerns. An abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure to address loose skin and excess fat to reveal a tighter, firmer and lifted abdomen. A thorough consultation with Dr. Nancy de Kleer, plastic surgeon, will determine whether a full or mini (in which only the lower abdomen is treated) abdominoplasty is required. Depending on the cosmetic concerns that need to be addressed, liposuction may also be included in your procedure. The procedure involves a surgical incision just above the pubic area and at the navel to free it from the surrounding tissue. Once excess fat is removed and muscles have been tightened to produce the desired shape, excess skin is trimmed and redraped for a firm, smooth and lifted result.
For all of the treatment options we’ve discussed here, it is vital to have a stable weight and good nutrition and fitness habits in place to ensure that your treatment is successful and your results are lasting. A consultation with Dr. de Kleer will establish attainable goals as well as your treatment candidacy. Research has shown that procedures such as a tummy tuck benefit patients beyond the surface by helping them stay motivated to keep their weight in check. If you’d like to learn more about the procedures we’ve outlined here, or to book in for a consultation, Oakville Plastic Surgery and Advanced Skincare invites you to call 905.901.9545 or email [email protected].
