A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that targets excess abdominal skin and fat while tightening the underlying muscles, resulting in a flatter and more toned contour.
Men can and should have tummy tucks if it will improve their self confidence or quality of life - fact. Unfortunately, there is an old-fashioned notion that only women can have a tummy tuck. While it is true that many women would greatly benefit from a tummy tuck post-pregnancy, to repair muscle separation and remove excess lax skin and stretch marks, more and more men are opting for tummy tucks to address excess skin as a result of weight loss, ageing, or genetic factors. In fact, recent statistics from The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (The BAAPS) reveal a remarkable 121% rise in male tummy tucks between 2021-2022.
It has to be said though that terms like male tummy tuck don't to much to help the cause with associations of tummy and mummy springing to mind, so instead let's replace all references to 'male tummy tuck' with 'gut tuck' for the remainder of this article (*just for fun lets count how many times we have to replace the word).
Despite the procedure's growing popularity, many male patients still face challenges in justifying their decision, both to themselves and those around them or finding the right care. To shed light on this, we present the inspiring stories of two male tummy tuck gut tuck patients: Lee (38), a weight loss enthusiast and aspiring body-builder, and Ethan Payne (27), (better known as Behzinga), a co-founder and member of the British YouTube Group, Sidemen. Their remarkable weight loss transformations and surgery journeys serve as a powerful example to anybody considering this procedure.
Why have a male tummy tuck Gut Tuck?
A tummy tuck effectively addresses issues such as sagging or loose skin and stubborn pockets of fat that resist diet and exercise. As a result, your abdomen becomes flatter and more contoured.
For individuals like Ethan and Lee, removing the excess loose skin left over after their massive weightloss journeys was the last remaining obstacle to feeling like their new selves. In a YouTube video titled 'I'm having surgery', Ethan described his loose skin as a constant reminder of his past self, stating, "no matter how hard I try or how well I eat, there is always a reminder of what I used to look like." Similarly, Lee agreed that his torso retained remnants of his old body and lifestyle that no longer resonated with him, leading him to explore surgical options.
What makes a male tummy tuck Gut Tuck Unique?
Male and female patients each have unique requirements and aesthetic goals when it comes to tummy tuck surgery. Therefore, it is crucial that every tummy tuck procedure is expertly tailored by a professional during and throughout the consultation and pre-surgery process.
Lee's experience at Bella Vou exemplified the challenges faced by some men seeking cosmetic surgery in what he initially felt was a ‘predominantly female-oriented’ environment. He shared: ‘finding a surgeon who truly believed in my journey and understood my aspirations proved to be a challenge. Among the three [surgeons I saw], one dismissed my goals as unrealistic, and another failed to acknowledge the progress I had already made…’. However, Lee was able to find solace in the understanding and personalised approach of Amir Nakhdjevani and the Bella Vou team, who catered to his specific needs.
Aesthetic goals differ between men and women undergoing tummy tuck surgery. Women typically strive for an hourglass figure with a narrower waist and defined contours, while men often desire an athletic, flatter and more sculpted abdomen without curves.
Bella Vou customises the surgical approach and technique to meet gender-specific aesthetic goals. Whilst incision placement is generally similar, running horizontally across the lower abdomen between the hip bones, adjustments are made based on individual anatomy, with the overall goal of disguising any future scars below the underwear line.
The Repositioning of the belly button is also considered, with women's belly buttons often placed slightly higher to enhance the waistline, while men's are repositioned to maintain a masculine appearance.
Muscle repair may be necessary for both men and women during a tummy tuck, but men typically have stronger and thicker abdominal muscles. As a result, men may require more extensive muscle tightening to achieve their desired contour.
Despite differing goals, both men and women can anticipate a tighter and more toned appearance, leading to increased self-esteem and confidence after a tummy tuck.
Benefits of a male tummy tuck Gut Tuck
After undergoing a tummy tuck, you'll immediately notice both aesthetic and physical improvements, which will continue to enhance over time. Your stomach will feel tighter and more toned as you leave the clinic. Beyond the cosmetic changes, male patients often experience a significant boost in confidence, resulting in improved self-esteem and self-image.
Lee plans to participate in a bodybuilding competition after his recovery. He will be taking part in the competition's transformation category, where his progress will be showcased alongside a picture of himself at his heaviest. Following the surgery, Lee told us that he is looking forward to feeling stronger than ever and is ‘determined to inspire others through [his] journey’.
As well as skin excision, men with separated or weakened abdominal muscles caused by weight fluctuations or ageing can have their muscles repaired. This result is a firmer and more defined abdominal contour. The procedure not only enhances self-esteem and body image but, for physically active individuals like Lee and Ethan, a tummy tuck can even improve exercise tolerance - most stating that they feel stronger and far more productive in the gym, post-recovery.
By maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery, the results of a male tummy tuck gut tuck can be long-lasting, ensuring ongoing satisfaction with improved body contours. Ethan emphasized the importance of self-care both before and after the operation, which contributed to his positive recovery experience. Despite some expected discomfort, he expressed feeling ‘surprisingly well and active’, with total optimism for a full recovery in the coming weeks.
Popular procedures to have with a male tummy tuck gut tuck
In addition to a male tummy tuck gut tuck, there are a number of procedures that men may choose to have concurrently to enhance their overall body contour and aesthetic appearance. Vaser Liposuction and Chest Surgery are among the most popular procedures performed in conjunction with a male tummy tuck gut tuck:
- Vaser Liposuction: Liposuction can be combined with a tummy tuck to further remove excess fat deposits from the abdomen as well as other areas of the body, such as the flanks (love handles), chest (gynecomastia), or back. This helps achieve a more sculpted and proportionate physique.
- Chest contouring: Men who have excess breast tissue or gynecomastia may choose to undergo a male breast reduction surgery alongside a tummy tuck. This procedure helps create a flatter and more masculine chest contour.
Takeaways
A male tummy tuck gut tuck offers numerous benefits to men seeking to improve their abdominal appearance and overall confidence.
- By removing excess skin and fat, tightening abdominal muscles, and enhancing body contours, a tummy tuck can provide a flatter, more sculpted abdomen.
- Alongside increased self-esteem and improved clothing fit, men can enjoy the long-lasting results and a rejuvenated physique.
- For those considering a
male tummy tuckgut tuck like Ethan and Lee, an essential first step is to consult with a skilled plastic surgeon, to discuss individual goals, assess suitability, and ensure the best possible outcomes. - With the transformative potential of a
male tummy tuckgut tuck, men can regain their confidence and achieve the body contours they desire.
*In case you've been counting along, there are a total of 15 times we've said 'male tummy tuck' on this page.
Read Ethan & Lee's Full Male Tummy Tuck & Weight-loss Transformation Stories Here:
Medically reviewed by
Last Updated: October 4, 2023
Published On: June 12, 2023