It is a common misconception that a tummy tuck, medically known as an abdominoplasty, is reserved for people who are unable or unwilling to shed pounds from their stomach. In reality, this procedure’s goal is less to do with overall body weight and is more about cosmetics and improving the area aesthetically.

A tummy tuck involves removing excess skin from the abdomen, tightening up the muscle and making it look firmer. If you are considering this procedure but are not sure enough to commit, below are reasons why a tummy tuck might be right for you.

1. Improved posture

Poor posture can be caused by a heavier stomach or weak abdominal muscles and not only looks undesirable but it can cause serious neck and back pain if not addressed. A tummy tuck will strengthen your abdominal muscles which in turn will allow the spine to be better supported. The stress will be taken off of your back and allow you to straighten up and be rid of the pain that may have forced you to avoid activities that you love. During the procedure, gaps in your muscles are also filled and repaired which will strengthen your core and allow you to maintain better posture.

2. Remove excess skin

If you have had a baby or have lost an incredible amount of weight, you may have excess skin on your stomach. Due to extra weight and the tummy area being distended for a period of time, the skin loses its elasticity. The bad news is no amount of diet and exercise will correct this problem. The good news is, tummy tucks can.

As mentioned, a tummy tuck can tighten the muscles in your abdomen, but it can also remove excess skin and fat, leaving your core looking toned and fit. If you have lost a lot of weight, you should be rewarded with a great-looking body, not excess skin that has left you unhappy and felling unattractive. If you have had a baby and cannot seem to shake that extra weight even after maintaining regular exercise and a healthy diet, you should be rewarded for your hard work. In each of these instances, a tummy tuck should be considered because you deserve it.

3. Reduce incontinence

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a condition where urine leaks out with pressure on the urethra and bladder. This usually occurs when the person who suffers from it sneezes, coughs, or laughs and in extreme conditions it can even happen when walking or standing up. Men can experience it but it is far more common in women especially those who have given birth. While interventions such as absorbent pads, exercises, bladder training, and other surgeries have been successful in treating SUI, tummy tucks are more appropriate for those who have not given birth.

With this procedure, soft tissue is used to obstruct the bladder near the pelvis, therefore blocking any incontinence that may occur. Many people who have undergone a tummy tuck to treat SUI have reported positive results, making it a great option if you are experiencing this condition.

4. Hernia relief

A hernia occurs when abdominal tissue or the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall, causing great pain and discomfort. While there is a common surgery to treat a hernia, the tummy tuck procedure can work in conjunction with it, strengthening the abdominal muscles and relieving pressure on the skin that the hernia has caused. Once you develop a hernia once, you are more prone to having another one. However, with your abdomen being stronger after the procedure, you more than likely will be able to avoid future issues.