TUMMY TUCK
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is used to treat loose abdominal skin at fat. This procedure is also used to tighten muscles that have been weakened or separated due to pregnancy. In some cases, a tummy tuck can even improve the appearance of stretch marks. The causes of these issues are sometimes inherited but can also be due to significant weight loss.
We provide no drain tummy tuck surgery in Chicago with top rated plastic surgeons.
We provide the best tummy tuck plastic surgery, abdominoplasty surgery by best tummy tuck surgeons in our tummy tuck clinics in Chicago, South Barrington, Oak Brook, Orland Park.
The difference in procedures is the extent of scarring. Flaps are used during a simple lift procedure. Fat transfer is used for patients who desire a more fullness over their buttock area. During the fat transfer procedure, the removed fat is placed deeply within the muscle and in many different layers to create a smooth surface without irregularities. It is common for surgeons to perform liposuction as well to enhance the shape of the buttocks.
Fat grafting has changed buttock enhancement to be a simpler procedure, performed within 1.5 hours, with minimal pain, discomfort, and recovery time. Candidates for this surgery are usually 18 years or older and in good physical health.
BRAZILIAN BUTT LIFT PRE-OPERATION
If you are a smoker, your surgeon will strongly urge you to quit at least six weeks before your surgery as smoking can interfere with the healing process and the viability of the fat grafts. Also, medications that can increase the risk of bleeding should be stopped. As this surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia, it’s important to arrange for transportation.
Recovery timeline
An extended tummy tuck recovery typically involves an initial, intense healing phase for the first few weeks, with patients gradually returning to light activities, but it can take 8 to 12 weeks for a full recovery and up to a year for scars to fully fade. During this time, a compression garment is essential, and patients must avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least six to eight weeks, gradually increasing activity as approved by their surgeon.
Timeline Breakdown
Weeks 1-2: Initial Recovery
- Pain and Swelling: Discomfort is common, and swelling and bruising are at their peak.
- Activity: Rest is crucial, but gentle walking to promote circulation is encouraged.
- Compression Garment: Wearing a compression garment is vital for support and to reduce swelling.
- Work/Driving: You may be able to return to a sedentary job and driving, depending on your comfort level.
- Posture: You will likely be in a slightly bent position, which can cause temporary back pain.
Weeks 3-4: Increasing Activity
- Movement: You can increase your walking and slowly return to a normal diet and routine.
- Heavy Lifting: Heavy lifting and strenuous activities, including most core workouts, are still prohibited.
Weeks 6-12: Gradual Return to Normal Life
- Full Recovery: The majority of recovery is complete by 6-8 weeks. Strenuous
- Activity: You may receive surgeon approval to slowly return to vigorous exercise.
- Swelling: Lingering swelling may persist for up to three months.
6 Months to 1 Year: Scar Healing
- Scar Fading: Scars will continue to flatten and fade over several months.
- Final Results: Final results become apparent as swelling and numbness resolve.
have a question?
Quick answers to questions you may have
What areas does an extended tummy tuck target?
An extended tummy tuck addresses excess skin and fat from the abdomen, flanks, and lower back for a more comprehensive body contouring solution.
What is involved in the procedure and recovery?
The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat and tightening abdominal muscles, with an incision that extends from the low pelvis to the lower back. Recovery typically requires several weeks off work, and full healing can take several months.
Will there be a noticeable scar?
Yes, an extended tummy tuck results in a more substantial scar than a standard tummy tuck, which wraps from the low pelvis to the lower back. However, with proper care and an experienced surgeon, the scar should fade over time and can often be concealed with undergarments or a bathing suit.
What should I ask my surgeon during the consultation?
During your consultation, discuss your medical history, concerns, and expectations, and ask about the location of the incision, the potential for combined procedures, and strategies for long-term results.
How is it different from a regular tummy tuck?
A standard tummy tuck focuses on the front of the abdomen, while an extended tummy tuck addresses a wider area, including the sides (love handles) and sometimes the lower back, for a more balanced contour.
YOUR TUMMY TUCK PROCEDURE IN HOFFMAN ESTATES, OAK BROOK, BARRINGTON, & CHICAGO
A tummy tuck is performed in plastic surgery clinic by making an incision, usually within or just above the pubic area. The length of this incision depends on the amount of skin that is to be removed. The incision site is where the surgeon will remove the fat. If the procedure is to tighten the muscles, the surgeon will bring the muscles of the abdominal wall together with sutures. In regards to stretch marks, if it’s the lower skin that contains the stretch marks it will be removed as well. It’s important to remember that you shouldn’t expect a dramatic change in the appearance of stretch marks.
TUMMY TUCK RISKS
As with all surgeries, there are risks involved. However, complications during or following a tummy tuck procedure are rare. Possible risks include:
- Infection
- Reaction to anesthesia
- Scarring
To further prevent these complications, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s instructions for before, during, and after the procedure.
TUMMY TUCK PRE-OPERATION
If you are a smoker, your surgeon will strongly urge you to quit well before your surgery as smoking can interfere with the healing process. Also, medications that can increase the risk of bleeding should be stopped. As this surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, it’s important to arrange for transportation.
TUMMY TUCK PROCEDURE DAY-OF
Your tummy tuck procedure will be performed at an outpatient surgical site. You will be given general anesthesia for this procedure so you will be asleep. You will be hooked up to machines that will monitor your vitals during and after the procedure to ensure your safety.
Once your surgery is complete, you will be placed in a recovery area for a few hours where you will be monitored closely. Drain tubes will be placed within the abdominal tissues in order to avoid fluid accumulation. Gauze will be applied to the surgical site area.
RECOVERY FROM A TUMMY TUCK
Recovery from a tummy tuck procedure varies from person to person.
Following your tummy tuck procedure, you’ll be encouraged to get up from bed and take short walks; this is done to promote blood circulation. You’ll be advised to avoid bending, straining, and lifting for the first several days following your procedure as doing those things can cause increased swelling and even bleeding. While recovering, you will need to sleep on your back with a pillow placed beneath your knees. Within the first week after surgery, your drains will be removed and your gauze will be changed. It’s important to avoid abdominal binders after your tummy tuck because this can hinder your healing. Your stitches will be removed about two weeks following the procedure. Some swelling is expected and while bruising is uncommon, it also can occur. Any swelling or bruising should subside within several weeks. However, it may be months before the swelling is completely gone and you’re able to see the full results of your tummy tuck. It is also normal for your abdomen to feel numb at first. As far as your incisions are concerned, they may be red or pink, and may even look worse, before they begin to fade.
You should be able to return to non-strenuous work within 1 to 3 weeks following your surgery. Normal daily activities and light exercise can usually be resumed within 3 weeks. Sexual activity should be avoided for a minimum of 2 weeks after your tummy tuck.
Remember, it’s perfectly normal to experience some discomfort following this surgery.
Dr. Dhaval Patel is an accomplished Double Board Certified Aesthetic & Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon, who is skillful enough to restore your youthfulness which has been lost with the effects of aging & gravity. He is the man behind the famous Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery.
FREE CONSULTATION WITH PLASTIC SURGEON DR. PATEL
If you are interested in a tummy tuck, contact our plastic surgeon, Dr. Patel, at (224) 238-3816 for your free consultation.
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is used to treat loose abdominal skin at fat. This procedure is also used to tighten muscles that have been weakened or separated due to pregnancy. In some cases, a tummy tuck surgery in Oak Brook can even improve the appearance of stretch marks. The causes of these issues are sometimes inherited but can also be due to significant weight loss.
We provide no drain tummy tuck surgery in Chicago with top-rated plastic surgeons.
We provide the best tummy tuck plastic surgery, and abdominoplasty surgery by the best tummy tuck surgeons in our tummy tuck clinics in Chicago, South Barrington, Oak Brook, Elgin, Naperville, Schaumburg, and St. Charles.
Dr. Dhaval Patel is one of the best tummy tuck surgeons in Schaumburg who is very talented in restoring your youthful looking and achieving your body desired goals.
TUMMY TUCK RISKS
As with all surgeries, there are risks involved. However, complications during or following a tummy tuck procedure are rare. Possible risks include:
● Infection
● Reaction to anesthesia
● Scarring
To further prevent these complications, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s instructions before, during, and after the procedure of abdominoplasty surgery in Chicago.
Recovery From A Tummy Tuck
Recovery from a tummy tuck procedure in Barrington varies from person to person.
Dr. Dhaval Patel is an accomplished Double Board Certified tummy tuck plastic surgeon in Chicago, who is skillful enough to restore your youthfulness that has been lost with the effects of aging & gravity. He is the man behind the famous Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery.
