Tummy Tuck

Home > Body > Tummy Tuck

Quick Links

What is a Tummy Tuck?

There are many factors that can take a toll on the appearance of the abdominal region, including weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and genetics. An abdominoplasty, commonly called a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure to tighten abdominal muscles and skin to help achieve a flatter stomach. Plastic Surgery Associate’s unique approach to your abdominoplasty procedure is geared to achieve a beautiful abdominal contour. The abdominoplasty is the most common procedure for flattening the stomach and abdomen, and it addresses the problem for both women and men.

A tummy tuck can help to correct the following:

  • Excess skin and fat on the abdomen
  • Separated or weakened abdominal muscles

Who can Benefit from a Tummy Tuck?

Both men and women who are bothered by excess skin and tissue on their abdomen can often benefit from a tummy tuck. Ideal candidates will be physically healthy and at a stable weight and will have realistic expectations for the outcome of their procedure. To learn more about this procedure and if it is right for you and your aesthetic goals, contact our Grand Rapids office today to schedule a consultation appointment.

The Procedure

The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in our fully accredited facility. General anesthesia is administered by a physician anesthesiologist to maximize your safety and comfort during and after the procedure.

Overall, there are 3 main types of tummy tuck techniques, including a complete tummy tuck, a mini tummy tuck, and a circumferential tummy tuck.

Complete Tummy Tuck

The complete tummy tuck, also known as a classic tummy tuck, removes excess skin from the middle and lower abdomen and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. The resulting scar can be hidden below the bikini line. Along with the tummy tuck, your surgeon may recommend liposuction to remove excess fat deposits creating a more desirable body contour.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck focuses on removing loose skin on the lower belly and is the least extensive of the three tummy tuck techniques. A single incision is created through which excess skin is removed and loose muscles tightened.

Circumferential Tummy Tuck

A circumferential tummy tuck, also called an extended tummy tuck, involves a longer incision than a complete tummy tuck, and removes excess skin from the upper and lower abdomen, as well as the flanks. The abdominal muscles are also tightened. This technique is often used for patients who have a significant amount of sagging skin following weight loss or multiple pregnancies.

The time of the surgery will vary based on which procedure is recommended for you. Our surgeons can advise you on the choices that are best for you.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

There may be some bruising and swelling for a week or so following surgery. You may have slight pain or discomfort which can be treated with medication prescribed by your doctor. Your surgeon will usually use drains to remove excess fluid, and these may be in place for one to two weeks following surgery.

Most patients return to work about two weeks or more after surgery. Gradual return to activity over six weeks is expected; however, being up and walking around immediately after surgery is encouraged. We can discuss more details on the procedure and how to help the recovery process when you schedule your procedure.

Are tummy tucks dangerous?

When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in accredited facilities like the ones at Plastic Surgery Associates, the risk of complications and serious side effects from tummy tuck surgery is very low.

Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues?

Common side effects for several weeks after tummy tuck surgery involve abdominal pain, tenderness, and swelling, but these are to be expected. A tummy tuck does not affect long-term gastrointestinal health.

Can I walk after tummy tuck?

You are encouraged to move around regularly during tummy tuck recovery, although you should take care to avoid standing straight up shortly after surgery so as to not put undue tension on your incisions.

Can you get a tummy tuck if youre obese?

Obesity increases your risk of complications from any surgery, including tummy tuck. However, patients of many different weights and body shapes can still be eligible for tummy tuck surgery if the procedure is right for them.

Do you get a scar from a tummy tuck?

Yes, there is a necessary incision from hip bone to hip bone that is used to access the tissues of the abdomen and remove excess skin.

Do you have to be skinny to get a tummy tuck?

Not in the general sense. People should be near their ideal, stable weight when considering surgery like a tummy tuck so the results are as natural-looking and long-lasting as they’re designed to be.

Does a tummy tuck tighten muscles?

One of the benefits of tummy tuck is its ability to tighten muscles that have weakened or separated due to pregnancy or extreme weight loss.

How are tummy tucks done?

Tummy tucks are performed under general anesthesia during which excess skin from the lower abdomen will be removed, fatty tissue might be removed or repositioned, muscles can be sutured together, and the belly button can be repositioned if needed.

How long after a tummy tuck can you drink?

You should avoid drinking alcoholic beverages for at least a week if not longer before and after tummy tuck surgery. Your doctors will provide you with more specific directions during a consultation.

How long do tummy tucks last?

Tummy tucks are generally considered to be very long-lasting procedures that will benefit your proportions as long as you maintain your weight and continue a healthy lifestyle.

How long do you wear a binder after surgery?

Compression binders may be worn as long as a month after surgery, depending on your surgical plan and your doctor’s recommendations.

How long does it take to lose weight after a tummy tuck?

As long as you are fully recovered from surgery, you may resume a normal exercise routine and weight loss plan at any time.

How much does it cost for a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery is highly personalized and its final cost is influenced by many factors. We aim to make every procedure as affordable as possible for our patients, with multiple financing options available.

How much weight can you lose having a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck procedures are not weight loss procedures. It’s not about shedding excess pounds but rather about improving the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and tissue for a firmer, flatter look.

How painful is a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck recovery is not as painful as many people expect. Most patients are back to their normal, light activities within about two weeks, with heavier duties restricted for at least 4 to 6.

See All

Tummy Tuck Testimonial

Patient's Story

“The entire process was wonderful. The staff and Dr. Renucci truly care about their patients. I had a tummy tuck, liposuction to my flanks and a breast lift. I am beyond pleased with my outcome. Dr. Renucci is the only person I would consider for these procedures. This was 100% worth it.”

Patient reviews

State of the art Surgical Facility

Our operating facility is conveniently located on the sixth floor of the Exhibitor’s Building adjacent to the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan. Our surgical facility is accredited by the AAAHC, or the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc. This association is committed to improving quality care provided to patients by reviewing standards, performance, and safety of our facility.

Learn More

Contact Us Today

Contact Plastic Surgery Associates today to schedule your tummy tuck consultation! This is your first step toward treatment, during which you can have a conversation with one of our surgeons to discuss your unique aesthetic goals.

Contact us