What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a surgical body contouring procedure that:
- Removes excess abdominal skin and fat
- Tightens separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
- Improves abdominal contour and posture
- Enhances overall body proportions
This procedure is ideal for patients who struggle with loose skin or muscle laxity that cannot be corrected through diet and exercise alone.
Types of Abdominoplasty
1. Mini Tummy Tuck
- Targets lower abdomen
- Smaller incision
- Faster recovery
2. Full Abdominoplasty
- Treats entire abdominal area
- Muscle tightening + skin removal
- Belly button repositioning
3. Extended Tummy Tuck
- Includes flanks/love handles
- Ideal after major weight loss
Procedure Overview
Your journey at Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery includes:
- Personalized Consultation – Goals, anatomy, and expectations evaluated
- Anesthesia – General anesthesia for comfort
- Surgical Process:
- Incision made low on the abdomen
- Excess skin and fat removed
- Muscles tightened
- Belly button repositioned (if needed)
- Closure & Recovery Setup – Sutures, dressings, and compression
Duration: 1–5 hours depending on complexity
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
| After Procedure | What Happens |
| Day 1–3 |
|
| Week 1 |
|
| Week 2–3 |
|
| Week 4–6 |
|
| Week 6–8 |
|
Month 3–6 |
|
6–12 Months |
|
Most patients resume normal activities within 4–6 weeks, with full results developing over several months
Tip: Wear your compression garment as instructed and avoid heavy exercise during early recovery for best results.
have a question?
Common Questions
Is abdominoplasty painful?
You may experience mild to moderate discomfort initially, which is managed with medication.
How long is the recovery?
Most patients recover in 4–6 weeks, with gradual improvements over 3–6 months.
Will there be scars?
Yes, but they are placed low on the abdomen and fade over time.
When can I return to work?
Typically within 1–3 weeks, depending on your job.
Are results permanent?
Yes, with proper lifestyle maintenance and stable weight.
Can it be combined with other procedures?
Yes, often combined with liposuction or part of a mommy makeover.
Read More
Available at numerous places like Orland Park, Oak Brook, Hoffman Estates, Barrington, Lake Zurich, Streamwood, West Chicago, Hanover Park, Schaumburg, St. Charles, Elgin, Mchenry, Dundee, Fox Lake, Vernon Hills, Buffalo Grove, Rockford, Naperville, Auroroa, Crystal Lake, Joliet, Rosemont, Des Plaines, Wheaton, Addison, Hindsdale, Cicero, Geneva, Batavia, Mokena, Tinley Park, Downers Grove, Loves Park, Belvedere, Dekalb, Sycamore and In Indiana: Hammond, Merrilville, Munster.
