Locations (630) 439-7128
Concierge Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery Website Logo
Contact Us

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Life events and hormonal changes contribute to loose skin and excess fat in our abdomen as we age. Pregnancy and significant weight fluctuations can leave the abdomen with stretch marks, loose skin, areas of stubborn fat, and weakened abdominal muscles. Abdominal muscles that have separated or stretched out often cannot be improved by diet or exercise.

Also known as an abdominoplasty, the tummy tuck is a safe and effective method for dealing with stubborn fat and sagging skin in the abdomen. It is ideal when other non-surgical alternatives are not working, resulting in long-lasting and satisfying results. During this procedure, we will remove excess skin and fat, tighten the abdominal muscles, and sculpt a firmer and flatter stomach.

If you have trouble getting rid of stubborn belly fat or struggle with excess belly skin from weight loss or pregnancy, a tummy tuck can help. Our surgeons are leading abdominoplasty surgeons in Chicago, Illinois. During this procedure, your surgeon will remove any excess skin and fat. In addition, we will focus on tightening the abdominal muscles, leading to a firmer and flatter stomach.

Tummy Tuck Q&A

What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a surgery that helps remove extra fat and skin from your belly. It can increase your self-esteem and help you look and feel better about yourself. There are many benefits of a tummy tuck. One of the most important is how this procedure tightens and sculpts the stomach area. Some additional benefits of a tummy tuck include the following:

  • Firmer, flatter abdomen
  • Reduction in loose and sagging skin
  • Slimmer, more contoured waistline
  • Reduction in stomach pooch and fatty tissue
  • Better fit and appearance in clothing
  • High patient satisfaction
  • Increased self-confidence
  • Long-lasting results
  • Improvements to the appearance of stretch marks
  • A popular aspect of the “Mommy Makeover” treatment
  • Restored abdominal muscles
  • Improvements in lower back and abdominal muscle pain
Banner media
stylish on beach

What Causes Excess Fat and Sagging Skin in the Stomach Area?

As we age, life events and hormonal changes contribute to loose skin and excess fat in the abdomen. Pregnancy and significant weight fluctuations can leave the abdomen with stretch marks, loose skin, areas of stubborn fat, and weakened abdominal muscles. Abdominal muscles that have separated or stretched out often cannot be improved by diet or exercise.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck in Illinois?

An abdominoplasty is best suited for healthy men and women with a BMI of 32 or lower, whose weight has been stable for the prior six months. Candidates should be in good health and refrain from smoking. Candidacy for this surgery is best determined by a physical assessment from a plastic surgeon. Typically, clients who elect to have the procedure include the following:

  • Individuals who have excess skin and fat in their abdominal area that does not respond to diet and exercise.
  • Those who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with loose, sagging skin in the abdominal area.
  • Individuals who have experienced significant changes in their body due to pregnancy, massive weight loss, or aging.
  • Patients who have realistic expectations for the procedure's outcome.
  • Individuals who are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle after the procedure to ensure long-lasting results.

Schedule A Consultation Indulge in You

Contact Us
Reviews media Background media

Tummy Tuck FAQ

What causes excess fat and sagging skin in the stomach areas?

Will a Tummy Tuck help me lose weight?

How much does a Tummy Tuck cost?

What causes excess fat and sagging skin in the stomach areas?

Life events and hormonal changes contribute to loose skin and excess fat in the abdomen as we age. Pregnancy and significant weight fluctuations can leave the abdomen with stretch marks, loose skin, areas of stubborn fat, and weakened abdominal muscles.

Will a Tummy Tuck help me lose weight?

An abdominoplasty contours the body and is not considered weight loss surgery. For patients already close to their ideal weight, an abdominoplasty is used to sculpt and define the abdomen and does not cause dramatic weight change. However, since some fat and skin are removed, incidental loss of some weight may result.

How much does a Tummy Tuck cost?

Abdominoplasty is a customizable surgery. Therefore, tummy tuck prices vary per patient. During your consultation, the cost will be discussed in detail. We will also provide information on financing options and suggest ways to save on this popular cosmetic surgery.

Your Personal Consultation

At Concierge Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery, we believe that every patient deserves personalized care, which is why we offer customized consultations for tummy tuck procedures. During your consultation, our experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons will evaluate your medical history, discuss your goals and expectations, and perform a physical examination to assess the amount of excess skin and fat in your abdominal area.

We will provide you with detailed information on the different techniques that can be used to achieve your desired results and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that takes into account your unique needs and goals. We understand that your time is valuable, which is why we offer virtual consultations. Our team is committed to providing you with the highest level of care and expertise to help you achieve a slimmer, more toned abdomen.

The Day of Your Procedure

After arriving at our certified surgical center, you will meet with your surgical team and our board-certified anesthesiologist. Your surgical plan will be reviewed, and you’ll be able to ask any remaining questions. Once you are in the OR, you will be placed under general anesthesia. An incision is made horizontally on the lowest part of the abdomen just above the pubic area. The abdominal muscles are brought back together if they have separated and secured. This leads to a flatter stomach and longer-lasting results. Excess fat and skin are trimmed away before the incision is closed. The procedure typically takes one to four hours, depending on the type of abdominoplasty performed and the degree of complexity. It is often an outpatient procedure, but an overnight stay may be required in more complex cases.

Banner media

Types of Tummy Tucks 

We utilize different types of abdominoplasty techniques based on your individual needs. During your consultation, we will work closely with you to determine the best option for your unique concerns. Your surgeon will discuss the best options for you based on your current body type. They may suggest other procedures to optimize your abdominal results, such as liposuction, to get the sculpted appearance you are looking for. Typically, the most common types are:

Complete Abdominoplasty

A traditional abdominoplasty, or full tummy tuck, is the most common type of abdominoplasty. It can often be paired with liposuction for optimal results. This method is best suited for patients concerned about loose skin or weakened abdominal muscles above and below their navel. The incision typically spans the width of your hip bones to yield the best contour and remove all redundant skin. The full abdominoplasty technique will require a longer recovery time than a “mini tummy tuck” but yields more dramatic results. The full method is often used for women who have had significant weight loss.

Mini Abdominoplasty

The incision during the mini tummy tuck technique is usually smaller and rests along the bikini line. It is typically less than eight inches in length.

This technique is ideal for patients with a small area of loose skin or stubborn fat below the belly button but who are otherwise happy with their upper abdomen.

Recovery and Results

After your procedure, you will wear a compression garment for several weeks following your surgery. This will prevent swelling, improve blood circulation, and prevent any complications. A compression garment also helps contour your body as it adjusts to its new shape. A drain may be placed under the skin to prevent fluid buildup. These drains are typically removed within two to seven days after the procedure. Patients usually require 7-10 days to recover. Strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks following the surgery. Abdominoplasty results are visible immediately after surgery, although full results may not be realized until postoperative swelling dissipates, which can take a few months.

closeup of sign

Why Choose Concierge Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery for Your Tummy Tuck?

At Concierge Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery, our board-certified team has over 30 years of combined experience helping clients realize their aesthetic goals. We believe that everyone deserves to feel confident and beautiful, and that's why we're committed to assisting you in achieving a better quality of life and an elevated sense of self-image with natural and subtle results. Our surgeons specialize in procedures such as the tummy tuck and can sculpt your midsection for a flattering and firm stomach.

Many clients call it “the best tummy tuck” Chicago offers. As leading surgeons serving Chicago’s Gold Coast, Barrington, Naperville, Northbrook, and Geneva, Dr. Martin, and Dr. Epstein are frequently sought for their attention to detail and excellent results. When you choose Concierge Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery for your tummy tuck procedure, you can be sure that we will meet your needs with the highest level of care and expertise.

Schedule a Consultation Start Your Journey With Concierge

Contact Us
Reviews media Contact us media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (630) 439-7128.
Contact Us