Results are long lasting, usually more than ten years, as long as patients maintain their weight, and follow proper nutritional and exercise protocols.

Yes and no. The stretch marks on the skin that’s being removed will, of course, disappear, but stretch marks will remain on the portion of skin that is not removed. To put in another way, the stretch marks below are usually gone, but not those above the navel.

Once fat cells are removed by liposuction or direct excision, they are gone forever. However, the fat cells that remain behind may enlarge if you do not follow proper nutrition and gain weight after surgery.

A tummy tuck does not affect a woman’s future fertility, however, one must realize that getting pregnant after having a tummy tuck will result in stretching of abdominal skin and muscle, almost certainly requiring secondary revision of the original surgery.

If you are overweight, you should try to get as close to your ideal weight as you can prior to undergoing a tummy tuck. Weight fluctuation after a tummy tuck may result in loss of the contour and taught look that your surgeon so carefully created during the procedure. If you are at or close to your ideal weight, you may undergo a tummy tuck in Chicago as soon as you desire.

Typical amount of downtime after having a tummy tuck in Chicago is 5-10 days, with most patients returning to work within 11 days.

Yes, patients wear a special compression garment after their procedure for a minimum of 2 weeks.

About a week after your tummy tuck the drains are removed, and you may be allowed to walk around, but it will be 6-8 weeks before you can resume full exercise.

Temporary bruising, swelling and mild to moderate discomfort most common, but always self-limiting. Temporary loss of sensation in the operated area resolves within a few months after surgery.

Mini tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes a smaller portion of skin than a full tummy tuck. It results in a shorter scar, with similar location to that of the regular tummy tuck. Mini tummy tuck does not address the skin above the belly button, the shape of the belly button itself, or the abdominal wall diastasis. Not everyone is a candidate for the mini tummy tuck. Your experienced Chicago tummy tuck physician from the Liposuction and Cosmetic Surgery Institute will let you know during your visit if a mini tummy tuck is an option for you.

The downtime after a mini tummy tuck is typically around 2 weeks before patients feel up to participating in their standard routines. Following the mini tummy tuck procedure, patients can expect a firmer midsection and less loose abdominal skin, and patients can expect to see their final results 3-6 months following the procedure. The procedure itself consists of local anesthesia, a smaller incision and overall faster recovery time. The smaller incision also produces a smaller, more discrete scar compared to traditional tummy tuck procedures. Keep in mind that mini tummy tucks are not an ideal substitute for weight loss and patients should aim to achieve their goal weight before opting for this procedure.

Surgical fees depend on the extent of your particular procedure, but a typical abdominoplasty cost ranges from $7,000-$10,000. Additional operating room and anesthesia fees may apply.

Schedule your free, no-obligation consultation at one of our four Chicagoland locations in Chicago Gold Coast, Arlington Heights, Oak Brook or Naperville today online by going to LIPODOC.COM, or by calling 847-259-1000.

Our experienced team of surgeons and staff are here to meet all of your cosmetic needs!

Stop smoking completely one month before surgery.

No nicotine products, such as gums or pills are allowed.

Stop all blood thinners, coumadin, heparin, aspirin, herbal supplements, Omega 3, fish oils, Ibuprofen, Vitamin E, and all anti-inflammatory medications two weeks before your surgery. Drinking alcohol and smoking may contribute to bleeding and delayed wound healing. If you have high blood pressure or diabetes, they must be under proper medication control for at least a month prior to surgery.

Rest and avoid exertion for the first week. Sleep in a recliner, or with some pillows propped up under your back for at least a week after your surgery. Aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, drinking alcohol or smoking not allowed for two weeks after surgery. Avoid touching your incision, and keep your hands clean at all times. Wear protective clothing when outside to avoid contaminating any part of your body.