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A tummy tuck, also called an Abdominoplasty, is designed to sculpt the abdomen by surgically removing stubborn fat and excess skin. A tummy tuck can also be used to eliminate forward protrusion of the stomach caused by weak abdominal muscles that may result from pregnancy or obesity.
What is A Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess fat and skin, and tightening the abdominal muscles to produce a flatter, tauter stomach. As a result, stretch marks caused by pregnancy or weight gain in the abdominal area are also eliminated.
What Does It Treat?
Clients who have gone through pregnancy or extreme, rapid weight loss may find that their skin does not contract to fit their smaller frame. In these situations, individuals can undergo a tummy tuck to surgically and permanently remove the excess skin, creating a flat midsection.
A tummy tuck can also be used to remove stubborn fat. Even with proper diet and exercise, fat in the abdominal region can be difficult or impossible to shed. Many people find that after following a dedicated workout regimen and losing weight, a small layer of fat still remains on the lower belly.
With a tummy tuck, liposuction methods are used to eliminate fat cells. With natural weight loss they would only shrink, but liposuction permanently removes them from the body. This procedure is ideal for individuals who are already near their goal weight and simply need help targeting specific problem areas that don’t respond to diet and exercise.
Finally, a tummy tuck can also be used to surgically repair weakened or damaged abdominal muscles. The abdominal wall protects the stomach and tissues behind it, keeping them all in place. However, when this wall is pulled apart, which can happen due to obesity or pregnancy, supportive muscle called the fascia is stretched out.
Separated abdominal muscles result in a stomach bulge. This is addressed by repairing the weakened muscles. Tummy tuck surgery involves suturing the muscles back together to restore the supportive barrier.
The Procedure
To perform a tummy tuck procedure, your surgeon will place an incision below your belly button and above your pelvic bone, typically referred to as the bikini line.
After fat and excess skin are removed, the remaining skin will be pulled over your abdomen, creating a flat, taut appearance. If the procedure is extensive, the belly button may need to be repositioned to align properly with the altered midsection. This is generally not required with a mini tummy tuck procedure.
Good Candidates
Good tummy tuck candidates are individuals who are struggling to obtain a flat stomach after pregnancy, extreme weight loss, or even due to age. Candidates should be in good health, non-smokers, and have realistic expectations for the surgery results. They should also be near their goal weight prior to undergoing surgery, as weight loss after a tummy tuck can alter the final results.
Tummy Tuck Recovery & Results
The recovery time for a tummy tuck differs for each patient. You will need to rest for 7-10 days before returning to work after surgery, and avoid strenuous activity and exercise for 6-8 weeks. In the first week, your drains will be removed. You’ll need to wear a compression garment for at least 2 weeks. The full recovery period generally takes 3-6 months, which is also how long it takes to see the final results.
A tummy tuck should not be performed in place of natural weight loss. It does not create muscle definition, but it will leave you with a flatter abdomen. The results of a tummy tuck are permanent as long as you stick to a good diet and exercise regimen. Weight gain and fluctuations, or pregnancy after surgery can reverse the results of a tummy tuck.
Smoking, alcohol, aspirin, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs should be avoided for 2 weeks after surgery.
Other Procedures
Some other procedures that can be used to address excess skin and stubborn fat in the abdominal region include:
- CoolSculpting in Chicago
- BodyTite in Chicago
- Laser Liposuction
- Lipotherapy & Lipo-Dissolve
- Traditional Liposuction in Naperville
- VelaSmooth
- PDO Thread Stomach Lift
The Liposuction and Cosmetic Surgery Institute offers a number of body sculpting and skin tightening procedures that can improve the appearance of the abdomen. Contact us today to schedule an appointment at our office in Naperville, IL.
Top Surgeons in Naperville for Tummy Tuck Surgery
If you’re dealing with loose skin or stubborn fat in your abdominal region, schedule a consultation with our team at the Liposuction and Cosmetic Surgery Institute. Our trained and board certified plastic surgeons can help you reach your beauty goals with advanced cosmetic surgery procedures and non-surgical treatments.
Contact us online to schedule a consultation and take the first steps towards getting the body of your dreams.
