If you’re looking for a tummy tuck in Michigan, you should know: That there are many different types of tummy tucks. You can get a mini tummy tuck if you’re not ready for the full procedure yet or if you’ve had children and just want to smooth out some extra skin. You can also get a liposuction treatment at the same time as your tummy tuck to help improve the results even further.
-What kind of doctor you should see for your tummy tuck. We recommend seeing someone who is board certified and has experience with these procedures. In this guide, we review the aspects of Best tummy tuck in michigan, tummy tuck in michigan costs, tummy tuck grand rapids, and How much does a tummy tuck cost in the state of Michigan?
-Why getting a tummy tuck early is important. If you wait too long, it could lead to saggy skin that can’t be repaired by surgery alone—but if you do it before pregnancy or weight gain, then it’s possible that one procedure will change everything about your body and make it feel like new again!
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area. This procedure is often sought after by individuals who have experienced significant weight loss, women who have given birth and have excess skin and fat in the abdomen, or individuals who have excess skin and fat due to aging. The University of Michigan is a renowned institution known for its expertise in reconstructive surgery, and their team of board-certified plastic surgeons and medical specialists are highly skilled in performing tummy tucks to help patients achieve their desired results.
During a tummy tuck procedure, the surgeon will make an incision along the lower abdomen, remove excess skin and fat, and tighten the remaining skin to create a more toned and sculpted appearance. This procedure can also help to repair weakened or separated abdominal muscles, which can occur after pregnancy or due to significant weight fluctuations. The University of Michigan’s team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care to each patient, guiding them through every step of the process to ensure the best possible outcome.
One of the key benefits of a tummy tuck is the enhancement of the abdominal contour, creating a flatter and more toned appearance. This can help to improve self-confidence and body image, leading to a higher quality of life for many patients. Additionally, a tummy tuck can also help to improve physical discomfort that may be caused by excess skin and fat in the abdomen, such as back pain or skin irritation.
Recovery from a tummy tuck procedure typically takes several weeks, during which patients will need to avoid strenuous activity and follow their surgeon’s post-operative instructions closely. The University of Michigan’s team provides comprehensive post-operative care to ensure a smooth recovery process for each patient. Patients can expect to see final results within a few months after surgery, once swelling has subsided and the body has had time to heal.
In conclusion, a tummy tuck can be a life-changing procedure for individuals who are looking to improve the appearance of their abdomen and achieve a more toned and sculpted figure. The University of Michigan’s expertise in reconstructive surgery and their dedicated team of professionals make them a top choice for individuals considering a tummy tuck procedure. If you are interested in learning more about tummy tucks and whether this procedure is right for you, we recommend scheduling a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon at the University of Michigan to discuss your options.
Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?
An abdominoplasty will tighten the abdominal muscles/fascia, which may have become stretched out over time. This procedure can dramatically aid in the reduction of a prominent abdomen. Abdominoplasty can be done in conjunction with a buttock/thigh lift.(link is external)
Best Candidates
A tummy tuck is best for patients who are otherwise in good health without active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions. If you plan to become pregnant or to lose a significant amount of weight, you should discuss these plans with your doctor before surgery. Abdominoplasty is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for proper diet and exercise.
The Procedure
Typically, the surgeon will make two incisions. The first is a long incision from hipbone to hipbone, just above the pubic area. A second incision frees the navel from surrounding tissue. In a mini-abdominoplasty, the first incision is much shorter and the navel may not be moved, although its appearance may be slightly altered. After the incisions, the surgeon separates the skin from the abdominal wall all the way up to the ribs, then lifts a large skin flap, revealing the vertical muscles in the abdomen. The surgeon then tightens these muscles by pulling them close together and stitching them into their new position. This provides a firmer abdominal wall and narrows the waistline.
A complete abdominoplasty can take from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the extent of work required. A mini-abdominoplasty may take 1 or 2 hours.
Alternatives
During your initial physical examination, your plastic surgeon may find that you would be a good candidate for less invasive procedures that would still allow you to meet your appearance goals. Alternative procedures may include a mini-abdominoplasty, liposuction or a panniculectomy, a procedure that reduces hanging skin in the abdominal area. View all of our body contouring surgeries.
Your Consultation
If you’re interested in a tummy tuck, we’ll first have you come for a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and the long-term benefits. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation, you should expect to:
- Provide a complete medical history. Include information about any previous surgical procedures; past and present medical conditions; and all medications or herbal supplements you are taking.
- Have your surgeon examine your abdomen, including the quality of your abdominal skin; the location of any existing scars; the amount and location of any excess fat; and the status of the underlying muscles.
- Discuss the procedure’s possible risks and complications.
Surgery
Preparing for Your Surgery
After your consultation and decisions about surgery, we will give you pre-operative information that explains everything you should do and know before your procedure. Your surgical team will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery. You also may want to make arrangements for someone to help you for a day or two while you heal.
Anesthesia
We use general anesthetic so that you will sleep and remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
Recovery
It’s very important that you follow your surgeon’s instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it’s important that you attend all follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns
Miami tummy tuck specials
The tummy tuck procedure has become one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries in the last decade. Medically known as an abdominoplasty, this procedure ranks in the top five most requested cosmetic procedures. Approximately 209,571 tummy tucks were performed in 2017, 2% higher than 2016, and the numbers are projected to continue to climb.
A tummy tuck can improve an individual’s overall appearance by removing the unwanted skin from the abdominal area. Although tummy tucks are usually performed for cosmetic purposes, some patients seek this procedure to improve other medical issues, including back pain, which can be caused by weakened or loosened abdominal muscles. At times, a tummy tuck can serve as reconstructive surgery.
During this procedure, doctors tighten abdominal muscles that have been weakened, separated or loosened as a result of the fluctuation of weight or pregnancy. The abdomen is also reshaped and flattened by removing fat and skin that causes the belly to protrude. In some cases, a tummy tuck can even remove or improve the appearance of stretch marks located below the belly button.
The tummy tuck procedure is entirely different than liposuction. Liposuction is the removal of fat deposits through suctioning. However, combining these two cosmetic procedures can often provide more satisfying results.
Abdominoplasty is an invasive cosmetic surgery that cannot be substituted for exercise and regular dieting. Many patients choose this procedure after all other methods have failed and weight is relatively stable.https://www.youtube.com/embed/I1RF3BFzEBc?rel=0&controls=0&showinfo=0
Typically, tummy tucks are more costly than liposuction and require a slightly longer period of recovery. To achieve long-lasting results, patients should maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise routines. This is a procedure that is available to both men and women in need.
The ideal candidate for a tummy tuck procedure would be a physically and emotionally healthy individual within 25 pounds of his/her recommended weight. It is also crucial that the individual is a non-smoker with realistic expectations. Women and men with excess loose skin and fat in the abdomen area can benefit and be great candidates for this procedure. Patients that still plan to get pregnant in the future should wait until they are done having kids. If you plan on losing extra weight in the future, you may want to hold off until having reached your desired weight. Abdominoplasty has been successfully performed on patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and whose skin has lost elasticity.
TUMMY TUCK BEFORE AND AFTER PHOTOS
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Who should avoid getting a tummy tuck?
Patients that are regular smokers or are frequently exposed to secondhand smoke should quit smoking or avoid smoke exposure at least one month before surgery and one month after. Smoking causes decreased blood flow which can cause many complications including; extended wound healing, infection, skin loss, increased scarring, among others.
Patients who plan on losing weight in the future should also avoid surgery since more weight loss can result in more loose skin. A tummy tuck surgery can be postponed until the individual has reached the recommended or desired weight for the procedure. Women who plan on having more children in the future should also wait. Getting pregnant after having an abdominoplasty can alter the results of the procedure.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure
There are various forms and techniques for the abdominoplasty procedure. The time of surgery depends on which type of tummy tuck you choose to give you the best results. A tummy tuck can take between 45 minutes and 3 hours. The time depends on the patient’s size and body constitution. The process involves several steps:
- General anesthesia is administered to the patients when they are taken into the operating room.
- The complete abdominoplasty uses a technique that requires two incisions. The first incision runs horizontally, from hip to hip, right on top of the pubic region. The length and size of the incision depend on the amount of skin removed and the anatomy of the patient. If the patient has excess loose skin around the navel, an additional incision will be made around the belly button so that extra skin can be removed, and the remaining skin is pulled up to create a flatter and tighter look.
- The muscles are then sewed together and tightened. That will make the waistline smaller and the abdominal wall much firmer.
- Once the excess skin is removed and the skin is tightened, the surgeon will create a location for the belly button similar to the one before surgery.
- Some stretch marks may be removed while remaining stretch marks will be improved and flattened. It is essential to be aware that some stretch marks can stay and scarring will also be present. Although you may want your scar to be gone after a few years, this isn’t always possible.
- Once the procedure has been completed, drainage tubes will be inserted under the skin to remove the buildup of fluid. Compression garments will most likely be placed around the operated area as well.
It is important to note that all types of tummy tucks may address issues patients have differently. Every procedure differs in recovery time and complexity. Therefore, your plastic surgeon will recommend the best surgical approach for your body.
Top rated tummy tuck surgeons
As a popular body-shaping surgery at our San Francisco practice, a tummy tuck is designed to repair weakened abdominal muscles and get rid of saggy skin. Yet not all tummy tucks are created equal.
To get the best outcomes possible from a tummy tuck, finding a skilled, highly qualified plastic surgeon is a requirement rather than a luxury.
In a nutshell, find a surgeon who can help you make well-informed decisions, and recommend the appropriate tummy tuck variation based on your current needs and existing physique.
A Cautionary Tale Worth Retelling
Jane is a 28-year-old student and mother of one who was unhappy with her flabby belly following childbirth. After hearing a radio ad promising a safe, quick, and minimally invasive procedure that would remove her belly fat and tighten her sagging skin — two major issues that Jane has been struggling with — Jane decided to check it out. It turned out to be an ad about Smartlipo laser liposuction by a national liposuction chain.
Frustrated with the way her tummy looked even after eating clean and a consistent exercise routine, she eventually signed up for their consultation.
On her first visit, she was seen by a ‘patient counselor’ who performed a quick assessment, and assured her that she was a good candidate for the procedure. The counselor offered her a “special,” including $1000-off if she signed up that day.
Of course, the offer was “too good to pass up,” so she signed up for the procedure on the spot.
Jane didn’t meet her surgeon until the morning of the surgery, but he seemed like a nice guy. During the procedure, despite local anesthesia, she felt like she was being stabbed, even though the patient counselor had assured her that the procedure wouldn’t hurt.
In spite of the pain, Jane managed to get through the procedure. Unfortunately, the SmartLipo results turned out poor. After waiting almost six months to heal, Jane’s abdominal skin ended up uneven with horrible-looking dimples.
She went back to the clinic that performed the procedure, but was told that she was not an ideal candidate in the first place because of loose skin. Jane was upset that there was no mention of this when she initially talked to the patient counselor.
Sadly, this happens more frequently than you would think.
Jane eventually found out about Dr. Fan and came in for a consultation at our San Francisco practice.
Dr. Fan listened to her concerns, reviewed her history, performed a thorough examination, and personally spent over an hour talking with her about her options. She decided to undergo the recommended tummy tuck and was ultimately thrilled with the results!
What Makes A Great Tummy Tuck Surgeon?
If there’s one key lesson to glean from Jane’s story, it would have to be the importance of finding a reputable, board-certified plastic surgeon who can give you an honest appraisal of your condition and the necessary treatment rather than trusting in heavily marketed, unproven technology and non-expert doctors.
So how do you spot a well-versed, expert plastic surgeon from the inexperienced?
Four Things to Look For:
1. Board-Certification in Plastic Surgery
Find a surgeon who is Board Certified in Plastic Surgery by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Board certified plastic surgeons are the only doctors who have been rigorously educated, trained, and certified to perform cosmetic surgery of the face, breasts, and body. Evaluate your surgeon for outstanding credentials and track record in producing stellar results specific to the type of surgery that you’re interested in.
Be wary of anybody who calls themselves a “cosmetic surgeon” or any doctor who is not specifically board certified in plastic surgeon.
2. A Plastic Surgeon Who Performs A Full Range of Tummy Contouring Procedures
Most patients with sagging tummies need a tummy tuck, but others may be candidates for alternative treatments such as liposuction and/or CoolSculpting.
The only doctor who is qualified to give you a full and honest opinion as to what YOU need is a plastic surgeon who performs the full spectrum of tummy contouring treatments (ie. nonsurgical treatments like CoolSculpting, minimally invasive treatments like liposuction, and surgical treatments like tummy tucks).
Doctors who do not perform tummy tucks (eg. doctors who only perform liposuction, or doctors or medical spas that only perform non-invasive fat reduction treatments) do not have the expertise to give you a qualified assessment. Additionally, they have a vested incentive to steer you away from a tummy tuck because they don’t offer that service.
3. A Genuine Concern For Your Health, Needs, and Goals
Go for the surgeon who takes the time to understand your needs and preferences. A great tummy tuck surgeon will help you get the results you want rather than what they want.
To accomplish the best results possible without compromising safety, the surgeon of your choice should be thoughtful, detail-oriented, and have a keen sense of aesthetic artistry.
Unlike Jane’s unfortunate experience with the liposuction chain post-surgery, a surgeon who genuinely cares for your safety will stick with you even after the procedure.
4. Technical Finesse and Artistry Rolled Into One
As a prospective tummy tuck patient, take the time to find a surgeon who is a true artist and much more than just a technician. Renowned plastic surgeons have an innate eye for beauty and technical finesse in body sculpting procedures. Attention to the smallest of details and a commitment to excellence can make all the difference between an OK result and a GREAT result.
The Best Tummy Tuck Surgeons in the United States
Now that you’re aware of the qualities to look for in a great tummy tuck surgeon, your next step is to find the best tummy tuck surgeon in your area.
For starters, it can be overwhelming as just about every plastic surgeon’s website (including ours) claims they are the right choice for you.
To refrain from ending up like Jane, here’s a roundup of the best tummy tuck surgeons in the country’s major cities:
Dr. Alan Matarasso (New York City)
Dr. Alan Matarasso’s dedication to medical training, education, and scientific research are manifested in his membership and active participation in more than twenty regional and national medical organizations. In terms of tummy tuck expertise, Dr. Matarasso has edited a three-volume series on liposuction and body contouring techniques.
Dr. Todd Pollock, MD (Dallas, Texas)
Dr. Todd A. Pollock is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member in good standing of the American Society of Plastic Surgery. He has hospital privileges at several Dallas and Allen area hospitals to perform all of the procedures that are also offered in our accredited office surgical suite.
Dr. Eric Swanson (Kansas City, Kansas)
An advocate for evidence-based medicine, Dr. Eric Swanson is the founder of the Swanson center in Kansas. He is dedicated to staying at the leading edge of technological progress, so patients benefit from the most advanced treatments and techniques available.
Dr. Susan Downey (Los Angeles, California)
Dr. Susan Downey is a board certified plastic surgeon who has had a practice in the Los Angeles area for 22 years. She also has a particular interest in post massive weight loss patients especially after bariatric procedures and has over 20 years experience in the field.
Dr. Larry Fan (San Francisco, California)
Dr. Larry Fan is the founding director of 77 Plastic Surgery in San Francisco. He is known for his expertise in facial rejuvenation, body contouring, and Asian cosmetic surgery.
Dr. Fan has been named one of America’s Top Plastic Surgeons for the past seven years. He has been an invited speaker at numerous national and international meetings including the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Fan is also a recognized plastic surgery expert who is highly sought after by both industry and the media and has been featured on CNN, NBC, ABC, Bloomberg, and Refinery 29.
Patients often remark about Dr. Fan’s finesse in providing aesthetically beautiful and natural results. He is also known for incorporating non-surgical cosmetic treatments into his practice, as well as being open and honest with patients.
tummy tuck in michigan costs
The Hourglass tummy tuck developed and exclusively offered by Dr. Michael W. Gray (West Bloomfield, Michigan) helps patients feel much more confident in their appearance than a Traditional Tummy Tuck that is being performed. Making the trip to Michigan is well worth the experience as Dr. Gray performs his magic in a “state of the art” Out-Patient surgical facility. Also known as an abdominoplasty, it is important to understand that all Tummy tucks are not the same. Comparing a Traditional Tuck to the Hourglass Tuck is similar to comparing a Yugo to a Rolls Royce. The Hourglass being the Rolls Royce of Tummy Tucks but without the cost. Since this procedure is most commonly performed electively insurance will not cover the costs of the procedure. As a result, Dr. Gray does not charge a facility fee, so his fees are more reasonable that other surgeons. However, even if you are on a budget, there are a few ways to make the treatment affordable. Keep reading to learn all that you need to know about the financial side of obtaining an Hourglass tummy tuck.
Nationally, This procedure can range in cost up to $12,000. However, if you make a trip to Dr. Gray in Michigan, you can have the procedure for under $5000 or less.
The costs includes all except your garment and anesthesia. Your insurance will cover the cost of any medication you need.
Of course not all patients require a Traditional Tummy Tuck or an Hourglass tuck and may opt for a mini-tuck which has a lower cost but only tightens skin from the belly button down and does not flatten the tummy like the Hourglass Tuck. With the mini-tuck liposuction can be combined if desired.
What is best for you can be obtained with a complete consultation with Dr. Gray whether on-line or in person. Once you have had a consult, Dr. Gray can turn your dreams into reality.
Many insurance companies will not cover tummy tucks because they are considered cosmetic. Partial coverage may be possible if a hernia is being repaired at the same time.
You may be unsure if financial assistance from your insurance company is possible. Call them ahead of time to know how much you will be expected to pay out of pocket. Most insurance plans have the procedure as an option but often disqualify patients for coverage after the procedure has been performed. Financing options are available if you visit ANEWYOU.com and search “Financing” or call Dr. Gray’s staff at 248-538-3333
Your choice of a Cosmetic plastic surgeon can completely make or break the entire tummy tuck experience for you. So you must be sure that you are thorough in your decision-making process. At Michigan Cosmetic Surgery Center, we are committed to helping you discover a new you with fair costs.
We are fully committed to our clients, and we want everyone who utilizes our services to look and feel their best. As one of the leaders in mitigating tummy tuck cost in Michigan, we are ready to serve you. We have several different financing plans and payment options to make our procedures affordable. We accept all major credit cards and offer financing through MLEND, Care Credit and others.
If you have any further questions about tummy tuck financing or the process in general, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Michael W. Gray. We offer a free consultation to help you determine which tummy tuck or cosmetic plastic surgery procedure is right for your body and budget.
tummy tuck grand rapids
Tummy Tuck (abdominoplasty) is the single best surgical procedure for the removal of excess abdominal skin and tissue that diet and exercise alone can’t address. As an added benefit, an abdominoplasty may also include surgical tightening of the abdominal muscles that are commonly separated as a result of pregnancy or fluctuations in weight—a condition known as rectus diastasis.
Common reasons for patients wanting to discuss the benefits of a Tummy Tuck in Grand Rapids, MI include:
Whereas liposuction can only remove fat cells, a tummy tuck can remove fat and excess skin. It also usually tightens stomach muscles that have either become stretched or have even separated in the center of the stomach area.
Tummy tucks are especially good at reversing the changes made by the localized weight gain of pregnancy. Because the weight gain and stretching is so localized, the skin can become stretched to the point that it cannot tighten back down after delivery. A tummy tuck removes this overly stretched skin and achieves a slim contour again.
A tummy tuck is a great procedure if you have excess skin that has stretched due to weight gain and loss, especially due to pregnancy. In some cases of pregnancy, the muscles of the lower abdomen can actually separate and they cannot return to their former position. This creates a noticeable sagging and permanent pooch in the lower abdomen. Tummy tuck surgery removes excess skin and tightens underlying muscles. This surgery slims the contour both vertically and on the flanks.
However, if you mainly have pockets of fat and not stretched, sagging skin, liposuction can be a better option. Liposuction can remove the fat and your skin can tighten back down to a slimmer contour. But your skin still needs good elasticity for this to be a better option. In many tummy tuck procedures at Elite, we combine some liposuction with the tuck.
It’s important to note that a tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure. This procedure is meant for patients who are near their ideal body weight, but who are bothered by excess skin and sagging in their abdomen.
Before undergoing a tummy tuck in Grand Rapids, MI, patients receive detailed instructions that enable them to have the best possible experience and outcome.
Surgery is on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia and generally takes 2 to 3 hours. While all tummy tuck surgery requires an incision, the length of the incision is variable. This depends on the amount of skin that we will need to remove. In general, the incisions from the procedure hide well within swimsuit lines. In many instances, an additional incision made around the navel will allow your surgeon to reposition the navel to achieve a more youthful, aesthetically optimal result while excising more redundant skin.
“Dr. Armstrong is a true professional. Not only is he a talented and a skilled plastic surgeon, he’s also super kind and will take his time answering all of your concerns and questions. The whole staff at elite plastic surgery is wonderful and their patient care is beyond exceptional. You can’t go wrong with this team of professionals! Look no further than H&EPS!” – D.P
There is a recovery period after this procedure, and there will be some discomfort. This is due to the length of the incision with a tummy tuck. This incision usually stretches from hipbone to hipbone. Plus, in a full tummy tuck, another incision will be made around the belly button to tighten the skin above the navel. While the surgery, of course, is not painful thanks to the anesthetic, your recovery will take some time.
Complications following tummy tuck surgery are exceedingly rare, but your Elite plastic surgeon will inform you of these risks at the time of your preoperative consultation. Your result should be very long lasting, barring any dramatic fluctuations in weight.
You need to expect a recovery period with a tummy tuck, due to the size of the incisions and cutting and repairing the abdominal muscles. There will be some pain, but the amount varies by the individual. You’ll be encouraged to walk after your surgery and should take a short walk three or four times a day for just a few minutes each time. You’ll have to walk a little hunched over and the skin of your abdomen may feel tight.
If you have drains, they will be removed anywhere from four days to two weeks after your surgery. You’ll wear a compression garment to help your skin adapt to its new slimmer contour and to help with swelling. Most patients can return to work two weeks after their surgery, but this is an individual thing — it may take longer. If your job involves any lifting or being on your feet all day long, you may need more time. Any strenuous exercise or lifting will have to wait for at least six weeks.
Tummy tuck surgery may be performed as an independent procedure or in combination with other techniques. For example, abdominoplasty is often one aspect of a total Mommy Makeover, which also includes breast procedures. Many people who undergo a tummy tuck also include liposuction in their surgery to achieve the best outcome possible. These factors, as well as how a patient decides to recover (in-home or aftercare facility) influence the total cost of care. These factors can cause variations in cost from one patient to another. The best way to determine tummy tuck cost is to consult with a plastic surgeon. Discussion in the surgeon’s office can also explore financing options to facilitate prompt and efficient care.
Additional FAQs:
How Soon Can I Return to Normal Activities After a Tummy Tuck?
Because the large incision involved with a tummy tuck, patients need to be patient with their recovery. It’s important not to strain the incision by applying pressure to the abdomen. You’ll be able to walk after your surgery (it’s important to get the healing process started), but this is only for short lengths and you’ll be bent over a bit. In a couple of weeks, you’ll be able to get back to work if you have a desk job, and you’ll be able to walk normally by then. Most patients can return to driving in two weeks or so. Your Elite surgeon will discuss your individual goals for returning to normal activities and exercise. Don’t expect to return to strenuous exercise or any lifting for at least six weeks, however.
Should I Have a Tummy Tuck If I Plan On Losing Weight?
Because a tummy tuck involves removing excess skin and tightening loose underlying muscles, you should wait if you plan on losing more than 10 percent of your current weight. This is because losing weight (in addition to the weight you’ve already lost that created the sagging skin) will create more looseness. It’s a good idea to be at a long-term weight goal before having this surgery.
Is an Abdominoplasty Good For Weight Loss?
This is not a weight-loss procedure. In fact, we require our patients to usually be within 10 percent of their ideal body weight before considering a tummy tuck. This is not to be confused with weight-loss procedures such as gastro bypass surgery.
Can I combine tummy tuck surgery with other procedures?
You may have heard the term mommy makeover before. It is a combination of a tummy tuck with liposuction and a breast lift. While this creates a serious recovery, these procedures can be combined. With most tummy tucks at Elite Plastic Surgery, we include some degree of liposuction to remove unwanted fat.
Does Tummy Tuck Surgery leave a scar?
After their Tummy Tuck in Grand Rapids, MI, patients should expect to have a scar. However, there are strategies to reduce the visibility of the scar as it continues to heal. Wearing sunscreen and applying vitamin E oil or silicone sheets to the scar may help. These steps should only be taken once incisions have fully healed. Talking to the surgeon about concerns related to scarring opens the doors for meaningful discussion about when scar treatment may begin and what it can involve.
How Long Will My Abdominoplasty Results Last?
Tummy tuck results are considered permanent because the tissue that is trimmed and tightened will not naturally stretch out again. If liposuction is performed, the body will not grow new fat cells to replace those that have been removed. To enjoy long-lasting results from tummy tuck surgery, patients are advised to maintain a healthy weight and to exercise regularly to tone abdominal muscles.
How much does a tummy tuck cost in the state of Michigan
A tummy tuck or abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat that may have accumulated after pregnancy or due to obesity or age.
The University of Michigan is a nationally recognized leader in reconstructive surgery. Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons and medical specialists guides our patients through every step of the tummy tuck/abdominoplasty process to ensure the best results possible.
Is a Tummy Tuck Right for You?
An abdominoplasty will tighten the abdominal muscles/fascia, which may have become stretched out over time. This procedure can dramatically aid in the reduction of a prominent abdomen. Abdominoplasty can be done in conjunction with a buttock/thigh lift.
Best CandidatesA tummy tuck is best for patients who are otherwise in good health without active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions. If you plan to become pregnant or to lose a significant amount of weight, you should discuss these plans with your doctor before surgery. Abdominoplasty is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for proper diet and exercise.
The Procedure
Typically, the surgeon will make two incisions. The first is a long incision from hipbone to hipbone, just above the pubic area. A second incision frees the navel from surrounding tissue. In a mini-abdominoplasty, the first incision is much shorter and the navel may not be moved, although its appearance may be slightly altered. After the incisions, the surgeon separates the skin from the abdominal wall all the way up to the ribs, then lifts a large skin flap, revealing the vertical muscles in the abdomen. The surgeon then tightens these muscles by pulling them close together and stitching them into their new position. This provides a firmer abdominal wall and narrows the waistline.
A complete abdominoplasty can take from 2 to 5 hours, depending on the extent of work required. A mini-abdominoplasty may take 1 or 2 hours.
AlternativesDuring your initial physical examination, your plastic surgeon may find that you would be a good candidate for less invasive procedures that would still allow you to meet your appearance goals. Alternative procedures may include a mini-abdominoplasty, liposuction or a panniculectomy, a procedure that reduces hanging skin in the abdominal area. View all of our body contouring surgeries.
Your Consultation
If you’re interested in a tummy tuck, we’ll first have you come for a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon. You will have the opportunity to discuss your goals and the results you would like to achieve. Your surgeon will work with you to reach an understanding about what you can expect from this procedure and the long-term benefits. Every patient is different, and your surgeon will choose the surgical technique and treatment plan that is right for you. During your initial consultation, you should expect to:
Surgery
Preparing for Your SurgeryAfter your consultation and decisions about surgery, we will give you pre-operative information that explains everything you should do and know before your procedure. Your surgical team will instruct you on how to prepare for surgery. You should arrange for someone to drive you home after your surgery. You also may want to make arrangements for someone to help you for a day or two while you heal.
AnesthesiaWe use general anesthetic so that you will sleep and remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
RecoveryIt’s very important that you follow your surgeon’s instructions. This will promote healing and improve progress towards your new physical appearance. Also, it’s important that you attend all follow-up appointments so that your surgeon can assess your long-term results and answer any questions or concerns.
Location
Your procedure will take place in the University of Michigan Hospitals state-of-the-art surgical suites and recovery areas. Most tummy tucks are outpatient procedures.
We conduct all pre-operative and post-operative visits at Domino’s Farms where our patients enjoy personalized care in a private office atmosphere.