Most people considering a tummy tuck already know that the goal of the procedure is to improve the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. But what you may not know is an abdominoplasty can have a surprising functional benefit: the potential to alleviate back pain.
How It Works
There are several ways in which a tummy tuck can improve back pain. One way is through the rebalancing of weight following removal of excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. When the abdomen is overly large or sagging, it can cause the pelvis to tilt forward, leading to poor posture and strain on the lower back. Removing excess skin and fat during a tummy tuck can help to restore proper alignment of the pelvis, reducing the stress on the lower back and relieving back pain.
Another way a tummy tuck can treat back pain is by tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. If the muscles of the abdominal wall are weak or separated (a condition known as diastasis recti), it can contribute to poor posture and back pain. Abdominoplasty can repair separated muscles and restore their strength, helping to improve posture and reduce back pain.
Is a Tummy Tuck an Ideal Treatment for Back Pain?Â
While a tummy tuck may relieve back pain for some people, that is not its intended primary benefit and it is not indicated as a back pain treatment itself. If you have considerable back pain, the procedure is unlikely to completely resolve this pain. Other underlying factors, such as degenerative disc disease or spinal stenosis, may also be contributing to the pain. In these cases, a tummy tuck may provide some relief, but other treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or even surgery on the back itself may be necessary to fully address the pain.
Overall, a tummy tuck can improve back pain, but it’s not a good idea to go into the procedure expecting that result. You should discuss all health concerns you have with Dr. Mariotti during your consultation so that he can advise on the most appropriate plastic surgery options.
Call our Concord office at 925-685-4533 or contact us online today to schedule your consultation.
