Pregnancies, dramatic weight loss, time and gravity can lead to undesired sagging and a “bulge” around the tummy and midsection. A tummy tuck can dramatically improve the shape of the abdomen and slim down the waist by removing excess fat and skin from the abdomen while tightening the muscles on the abdominal wall. The clinical term for a tummy tuck is an abdominoplasty. There are also similar, but limited procedures of this type called a mini-tummy tuck or partial abdominoplasty.
General aesthetic goals of abdominoplasty include the following:
- Tighter and firmer abdominal skin, preferably without stretch marks and scars
- Better muscle tone and a flatter abdomen
- Contouring to reveal the central depression of the upper abdomen
- A non “hooded” navel
Who is a proper candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
If you exhibit excess skin and tissue of the abdomen, with a limited amount of fat, you may be a candidate for abdominoplasty. Other criteria for patient selection include the following:
- Willingness to accept the risks and responsibilities of surgery
- General good health – non-smoker, not obese.
- Not expecting a future pregnancy
Tummy Tuck Surgery
A tummy tuck is done under general anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon will identify a proper incision location based on your anatomy. The main incision is placed across the waist, in between the navel and pubic hairline. Every effort is made to ensure easy concealment of the residual scar, including a consideration of the patient’s typical clothing choices. Excess tissue, fat and skin are lifted or removed. Non-dissolvable sutures placed to repair the weakened abdominal muscles and the incisions are closed. In some cases, a separate incision is made to remove excess fat surrounding the upper abdomen. Some procedures may also involve liposuction.
After Tummy Tuck Surgery
Most patients recover from a tummy tuck 2-3 weeks after surgery. While an immediate difference (after 48 hours) will be evident, we tell our patients that the final results can be seen after about 4-6 months. Swelling can occur in the abdomen, back, hips and even the legs and ankles. Patients report that most swelling occurs within the first 5-7 days. At that point, your body releases the fluid it has retained and the majority of swelling disappears. The abdomen will have some puffiness and firmness for 4-6 weeks, but it will continue to get better every day.
After recovery is complete, you can expect a slimmer, tighter abdomen that can be further improved through regular exercise and a healthy diet.
To learn more about a tummy tuck, contact Chicago plastic surgeons Dreyfuss and Gelman.