If you have found yourself wondering about getting your figure back to where you want it to be, but diet and exercise just haven't done anything for that last little bit around your tummy, you might start thinking about the option of tummy tucks. However, you will need to make sure that you are even a candidate for a tummy tuck before you get attached to the idea. This way, if you are not currently a candidate but really want a tummy tuck, you can work towards accomplishing some goals so you can get the procedure. Here are some of the things that make someone a good candidate for a tuck:

You Are At A Healthy And Stable Weight

It is important to know that tummy tucks are not meant to be used for weight loss. The tummy tuck is meant to get rid of excess skin and tighten up the stomach muscles. In turn, this does cause a few pounds lost, but that is not the goal. You need to already be at a healthy weight and you need to have been at that weight for a while, such as six months or a year.

You Do Not Smoke Cigarettes

You generally cannot be qualified for elective surgery if you are a smoker. The reason for this is that smokers are at high risk for complications during and after the surgery is completed. If you currently smoke and want a tummy tuck, you will need to quit the habit and stay smoke-free. Your plastic surgeon will explain how long they need for you to be smoke-free before they approve you for the surgery.

You Have Realistic Expectations

Most surgeons will not perform a tummy tuck on someone that does not have realistic expectations for their surgery. You will have an improved appearance, but everyone is different. There is no such thing as perfect and you will have some scars from the tummy tuck. The scars will fade a bit as years pass by.

Now that you have a better understanding of what it takes to be considered for a tummy tuck, you will want to think about whether this is something you are ready to move forward with it or not. You can always schedule a consultation with a plastic surgery clinic—such as Mansfield Plastic Surgery LLC—to discuss tummy tucks. This can give you more information about what to expect and what you need to do in order to make it happen should you decide you want to.