Art in Form
Understanding Tummy Tuck Surgery
The midsection is one of the most challenging areas of the body for men and women to keep toned and smooth. Even healthy, fit individuals can struggle with pockets of fat, loose skin, and undefined tone. Worse, many postpartum women have weakened or separated abdominal muscles, contributing to a lower belly “pooch.”
When diet and exercise have failed, tummy tuck surgery remains. A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a transformative body contouring treatment that tightens the midsection. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Geoffrey Kim performs abdominoplasty in Denver, Colorado.
What Is Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Abdominoplasty targets loose skin, fat, and muscles in the midsection to create a slimmer, firmer, stronger core. There are many variations of tummy tuck surgery. Some address minor pooches; others address significant laxity following massive weight loss.
A consultation with Dr. Kim will help determine which tummy tuck technique is right for you.
Why Choose Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Women and men choose abdominoplasty to:
- Tighten loose skin after pregnancy or weight loss
- Remove stubborn pockets of fat
- Tighten separated abdominal muscles/Repair diastasis recti
- Strengthen the abdominal core
- Reduce stretch marks located on the excised skin
- Define the midsection contour
- Improve the balance of your figure
- Enhance your self-image and confidence
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What Are My Tummy Tuck Options?
Standard Tummy Tuck (Full Abdominoplasty)
The standard tummy tuck addresses laxity above and below the navel. This comprehensive surgery addresses loose skin, fat, and muscles to reveal a toned midsection.
During this surgery, an incision is made near the pubic hairline from hip to hip. An additional incision may be made around the belly button. From here, separated abdominal muscles are stitched back together like an internal corset, excess fat deposits are reduced, and skin is trimmed. A new belly button can be created with this variation.
This technique is preferred by many women after one or more pregnancies.
Mini Tummy Tuck (Mini Abdominoplasty)
A mini tummy tuck addresses laxity below the navel. This less-invasive option is ideal for women who desire minimal correction. It can remove excess skin and fat from the central lower abdomen but cannot address anything above the belly button.
During this surgery, a shortened incision is made low across the lower abdomen. It will stretch a few inches, but it will not extend from hip to hip like the traditional tummy tuck would. This option cannot reposition or create a new belly button.
As the name implies, this technique provides “mini” results compared to the other methods.
Extended Tummy Tuck (Extended Abdominoplasty)
An extended tummy tuck, sometimes called a lower body lift, extends past the hip bones to address the circumference of the midsection. This technique is particularly beneficial for women and men who have undergone significant weight loss.
During this surgery, an incision is made across the lower abdomen, extending past the hip bones. Excess fat and skin are removed above and below the navel, abdominal muscles are tightened and repaired, and a new belly button is created.
Am I a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
Women and men considering abdominoplasty should be:
- In good overall health
- Free of significant medical-related issues that can complicate the process or impair healing
- Realistic in their expectations
- Not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Not expecting to get pregnant any time soon
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How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
Tummy tuck surgery is often an outpatient procedure. While every tummy tuck is unique based on your needs and the techniques used, you can anticipate the following:
- You will have a final opportunity to discuss your abdominoplasty with Dr. Kim, and predetermined incisions will be marked across your abdomen.
- You will be given general anesthesia to make you comfortable and safe. A board-certified anesthesiologist (MD) conducts anesthesia for all cases.
- Your chosen incision will be made based on the tummy tuck technique selected.
- Excess fat is removed via excision or liposuction.
- Abdominal muscles are stitched close together.
- Excess or hanging skin is trimmed.
- The incisions are closed with layered sutures within the abdominal tissue and external sutures or skin adhesives.
- Your abdomen is bandaged, and you can begin your recovery.
Our patients are patients for life. We love to hear their stories.
Read Testimonials“Dr Kim and his staff was amazing throughout the whole process! They really took good care of me. My results are amazing. I have so much more confidence now thanks to dr Kim! Thank you!”
Cathy M.
Google Review“This was my first ever surgery, so I was obviously very nervous. However, the whole team was absolutely amazing in making me feel comfortable and eased my nerves. I’m one month post and I’m so happy with my results!”
K. S.
Google Review“I had the most amazing experience with Dr. Geoffrey Kim and his team. From the front desk , to the operating everyone on board for your surgery is there for you every step of the way .”
Angela T.
Google Review“Wonderful experience, I did breast augmentation. Dr. Kim did amazing and he listened to my wants and needs. Litzy the medical assistant was also amazing with any questions and with caring for your needs. and their anesthesiologist made me feel so comfortable and relaxed.”
Johanna L.
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What Is Tummy Tuck Recovery Like?
You will be taken to a recovery area immediately following your surgery and monitored closely for a few hours before you are released to go home. Your midsection will be wrapped in gauze dressings and a compression garment that will be worn around the clock for several weeks. This compression wrap will help support your new curves, reduce swelling, and promote circulation.
Following a tummy tuck, your midsection will be sore, swollen, bruised, and tender. Any post-operative pain can be alleviated with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication. Antibiotics may also be provided to help prevent infection.
Swelling and bruising will decrease gradually over the following weeks; however, it can take a few months for all residual swelling to disappear.
Most patients return to desk-type jobs within one to two weeks but should avoid strenuous exercise for at least six weeks after surgery.
When Will I See My Tummy Tuck Results?
While you will start to see your transformation soon after your surgery, your results will appear gradually as the bruising and swelling subside. Once your results have been finalized, you can appreciate a slimmer, firmer, more toned abdominal contour.
Your results will be long lasting if you maintain a stable weight with a healthy diet and exercise program. Future weight gain and pregnancies can impact or negate the quality of your results. Additionally, this surgery will not stop the natural aging process, and you can expect to see some changes over time.
Schedule a ConsultationHave More Questions About Tummy Tuck Surgery?
How much is a tummy tuck in Denver, CO?
Your tummy tuck cost varies depending on the type of tummy tuck chosen (mini, full, or extended) and factors like surgeon, anesthesia, and facility fees. Dr. Kim performs abdominoplasty in his state-of-the-art surgical facility.
You will be given a price estimate once your surgical plan has been established — including any combined techniques. Financing options are available.
How can I prepare for my tummy tuck?
Before your tummy tuck, you may be asked to:
- Get a blood test
- Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
- Avoid taking aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs, as they can increase bleeding
How will I know which tummy tuck technique is best for me?
The best way to determine the proper tummy tuck technique is to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Kim. He will evaluate your abdominal laxity to assess your needs. It is essential to choose the proper technique, as a less invasive option may not provide optimal results if a more comprehensive approach is needed.
Is a tummy tuck safe?
Tummy tuck surgery is an invasive surgical procedure, and risks of side effects exist. This includes but is not limited to the following:
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Infection
- Prolonged bleeding
- Seroma (fluid accumulation)
- Persistent pain
- Poor wound healing
Should I combine my tummy tuck with other surgical techniques?
Tummy tuck surgery is commonly combined with other body and breast enhancement procedures, such as liposuction, breast augmentation, and breast lift surgery. This combination is commonly referred to as a Mommy Makeover.
Can I have abdominal liposuction instead of a tummy tuck?
While liposuction can remove stubborn fat pockets from the abdomen, it cannot address loose skin or separated abdominal muscles. Liposuction alone will not provide the results you seek if you struggle with either of these.
Want to Learn More About Abdominoplasty With Dr. Kim?
For more information about tummy tuck surgery in Denver, Colorado, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Kim, call our offices at (303) 741-3131 or complete our online contact form.