Tummy Tuck Information

Enhancing Your Self Image With Abdominoplasty

A "tummy tuck" can reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen.

Abdominoplasty, known more commonly as a "tummy tuck," is a major surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and to tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall.

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won't respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved.

Before and After Pictures (Actual Patient of J. Eric Lomax, M.D.)

BEFORE
AFTER

Planning your surgery

Initial consultations would be with our board certified plastic surgeon and the plastic surgeons team will evaluate your health, determine the extent of fat deposits in your abdominal region, and carefully assess your skin tone.

If, for example, your fat deposits are limited to the area below the navel, you may require a less complex procedure called a partial abdominoplasty, also know as a mini-tummy tuck, which can often be performed on an outpatient basis. You may, on the other hand, benefit more from a partial or complete abdominoplasty done in conjunction with liposuction to remove fat deposits from the hips for a better body contour. Perhaps liposuction alone would create the best result.

In any case, the plastic surgeon will work with you to recommend the procedure that is right for you and that will come closest to producing the desired body contour. It is also at this time that expectations and risks will be discussed along with all questions answered regarding the procedure.

The Tummy Tuck procedure is performed in our Peoria Ambulatory Surgery Center. This outpatient surgical center is completely Medicare approved and accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care, Inc.

The surgery

Complete abdominoplasty usually takes two to five hours, depending on the extent of work required. Partial abdominoplasty may take an hour or two.

All surgical procedures carry the possibility of risk and uncertainty. Side effects and possible risks of abdominoplasty include infection, blood clots, scarring, bleeding under the surgical sight, pain, swelling, numbness to the area, bruising, lethargy, the possible need for a second surgery and possibly death. Without attention to weight maintenance or reduction, reoccurrence of fat pads may occur and scars could appear more pronounced. It is important to discuss your medical history during your initial consultation. A thorough discussion with your physician of risks and benefits as well as your expectations will be completed prior to your surgery.

Your new look

Abdominoplasty, whether partial or complete, has produced excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin. And in most cases, the results are long lasting, if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly.

All surgical procedures require an initial consultation appointment. For more information or to schedule your appointment please call Soderstrom Dermatology Center, S.C., at (309) 674-SKIN.