A tummy tuck with repair of the separation or widening of the space between the rectus abdominis muscles can help relieve some types of back pain. Pain, itself, is sometimes difficult to correctly diagnose. Back pain relief shouldn’t be your primary goal when undergoing a tummy tuck, but many are pleased when it does, in fact, improve.

Think of the lower abdomen as an internal corset. The abdominal muscles are interconnected with the internal and external oblique muscles. It is this muscular arrangement that supports the back and properly rotates the pelvis. The type of back pain most frequently associated with a loose abdominal wall is that of the lower lumbar spine. The medical condition is known as kyphosis. After a fascial lift tummy tuck, patients literally have a more secure support structure.

It is well known that having strong and tight abdominal muscles improves low back pain and the tendency to lordosis (concave back and protrusion of the belly). Interestingly, after tummy tuck procedures, patients notice that they fill up more quickly after eating, probably also as a result of having a tighter abdominal fascia.

And, of course, after any plastic surgery it is necessary to follow a good diet and exercise program. Abdominoplasty will only improve the resting tone of the abdomen. It will not strengthen the muscles at all. With proper exercise, these core muscles can be toned and add to the benefits of the procedure. Patients should never rely on plastic surgery as a substitute for good exercise and eating habits.

There is good medical evidence to support the claim that a tummy tuck will help with back pain. It’s equally important to rule out any other causes of back pain, such as a ruptured disc or a pinched nerve. Clearly, if there is an anatomical problem in the spine or back, a tummy tuck will not help.

With a proper diagnosis and a good surgical plan, most patients can expect improvement. It is important to know what will be helped and what is beyond the scope of the operation.