What is stomach overhang?
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The condition can cause physical discomfort and self-consciousness and can also make it difficult to find clothing that fits properly. Treatment options for stomach overhang include lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, as well as surgical options, such as tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty).
It’s important to note that tummy tuck surgery can only remove excess skin and fat, it does not address weight loss or muscle weakness. Additionally, tummy tuck surgery is not recommended for patients who are planning to have more children or have significant weight fluctuations in the future.
Overall, it is important to consult a qualified plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery to determine the best course of treatment for stomach overhang, taking into account individual factors such as overall health and personal goals.
What causes stomach or belly overhang?
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of stomach and belly overhang, also known as a pannus or apron belly. Some of the most common causes include:
- Weight gain: Excess weight gain can cause fat to accumulate in the abdominal area, resulting in stomach and belly overhang.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause the abdominal muscles to stretch and separate, as well as the accumulation of fat in the abdominal area, which can lead to stomach and belly overhang.
- Ageing: As we age, the skin loses elasticity, and the muscles in the abdomen can weaken, which can contribute to stomach and belly overhang.
- Genetics: Some people may be more prone to developing stomach and belly overhang due to their genetic makeup.
- Previous surgical procedures: Certain surgical procedures, such as gastric bypass surgery, can cause stomach and belly overhang as a result of the rapid weight loss that follows the surgery.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes in the body can lead to the accumulation of fat in the abdominal area and can contribute to stomach and belly overhang
- Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle, lack of exercise and physical inactivity can also lead to stomach and belly overhang.
- Poor diet: Consuming an unhealthy diet high in calories and processed food can lead to weight gain and contribute to stomach and belly overhang
It’s important to note that stomach and belly overhang can have both cosmetic and health implications. There is a range of both surgical and non-surgical treatments which are effective for stomach overhang. This could include a combination of diet, exercise, and surgery if necessary.
Can a tummy tuck get rid of stomach overhang?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that can help to improve the appearance of a stomach overhang, or pannus. During a tummy tuck, excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen, and the underlying muscles are tightened to create a firmer and flatter abdominal contour.
A tummy tuck can be effective in removing excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, which can improve the appearance of a stomach overhang. However, it’s important to note that a tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure and should not be considered a substitute for diet and exercise. The best candidate for the procedure is someone who has already achieved a stable weight and is at a healthy weight.
It’s also important to note that tummy tuck surgery does not address the underlying causes of stomach overhang, such as muscle weakness or separation. If these underlying issues are present, the surgeon may recommend additional procedures such as a diastasis recti repair.
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Tummy tuck surgery can also have risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, and anaesthesia complications, so it’s important to carefully consider the potential risks and benefits before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Overall, a tummy tuck can be an effective way to improve the appearance of a stomach overhang, but it should be considered only after a thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon in London. The surgeon will take into account individual factors such as overall health and personal goals before recommending the best course of treatment.
What are the non-surgical treatments for belly overhang?
- Diet and exercise: Losing weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help to reduce belly overhang by reducing the amount of fat stored in the abdominal area.
- Cardio exercise: Aerobic exercises such as cycling, running, swimming, or brisk walking can help to burn calories and reduce belly fat.
- Strength training: Building muscle mass can help to increase metabolism and burn calories, which can help to reduce belly fat.
- Abdominal exercises: Specific abdominal exercises such as crunches, planks, and leg raises can help to strengthen the muscles in the abdominal area, which can help to improve the appearance of belly overhang.
- Healthy diet: Eating a diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help to reduce belly fat and improve overall health.
- Lifestyle changes: Quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, and getting enough sleep can also have a positive impact on overall health and can help to reduce belly overhang.
- Wear a compression garment: Compression garments worn around the abdominal area can help to support the abdominal muscles and reduce the appearance of belly overhang.
It’s important to note that non-surgical treatment options for belly overhang can take time and dedication, and it may be necessary to consult with a nutritionist or personal trainer to develop a personalised plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals.
It’s also important to note that non-surgical treatments may not address the underlying causes of belly overhang, such as muscle weakness or separation, and may not provide the same results as surgical options such as tummy tuck.
Get rid of a stomach overhang with a tummy tuck at Centre for Surgery
Consulting with a specialist plastic surgeon is recommended to determine the best course of treatment for belly overhang, taking into account individual factors such as overall health and personal goals. Centre for Surgery is a specialist plastic surgery with years of expertise in treating people with stomach overhang. Call us today on 0207 993 4849 or complete the contact form below to schedule an in-person consultation at our advanced surgical facility in Marylebone.
