Considering a Tummy Tuck in Chicago?
Abdominoplasty, often called a “tummy tuck,” is a very popular surgery in America. This procedure shapes and flattens the waist and abdomen by eliminate excess skin and fat, as well as by tightening the muscles. We have performed a large number of tummy tucks with excellent results over the years. Our patients love the way they look when our expert surgeons are done with the procedure.
Who Qualifies for a Tummy Tuck?
Individuals who qualify for an abdominoplasty must be in good overall physical condition but have pockets of fat or loose skin that hasn’t improved with exercise or diet. The procedure also works well for aging individuals who are slightly obese and don’t have the same elasticity.
Women who have stretched skin and muscles due to pregnancy can also benefit, though the impact of a tummy tuck may be diminished after future pregnancies, therefore it’s important to wait until you’re done having children before undergoing the procedure.
Patients who anticipate losing more weight should also wait to have the procedure until after they have achieved their weight loss goals. This will prevent the need for a second tummy tuck in Naperville, Chicago, or Schaumburg, IL.
A Customized Treatment Solution
Our pre-operative consultation is designed to learn about what each patient expects from a tummy tuck, both for their self-esteem and their bodies. We listen to what you have to say and complete a thorough examination to ensure the best results from the procedure. We understand it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution; we will create a custom treatment plan to achieve your goals.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure
A tummy tuck procedure takes between two and five hours under general anesthesia. We make two incisions, one going from one hipbone to the other, close to the pubic bone. The second is placed around the navel. The skin is separated from the abdominal muscles. These muscles are then pulled back together and stitched to create a narrower waste and firmer abdomen. The skin flap is stretched over the muscle, excess skin is removed, and the navel is reattached in the appropriate position. Finally, the incision is closed and sterile dressing is applied to the sutured area.
The Recovery Process
We may need to insert a temporary tube to drain any excess fluid. Overall, you can expect tummy tuck recovery times between two weeks and a few months.
Your Results
Your tummy tuck procedures in Naperville, Chicago, or Schaumburg, IL, will leave a scar that spans your lower abdomen. However, we take care to make the incision well below the bikini line to ensure your scar is concealed at all times. When combined with regular exercise and a healthy diet, your results will last a long time.
The Risks of a Tummy Tuck
Post-operative complications are rare, but can occur, including blood clots, improper healing, and infection. Some of these complications may require additional surgery.
Patients who have previously undergone some form of abdominal surgery may find their old scars become raised, stretched, or more noticeable. Scar revision may help reduce the impact of the tummy tuck on these scars.
Partial Abdominoplasty (Mini Tummy Tuck)
Partial abdominoplasty is similar to abdominoplasty except that a shorter incision is made and the skin is only lifted to the navel, which does not have to be moved.
To learn more about our Abdominoplasty procedures, please call us today to schedule an appointment.