Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Dr. Michael A. Epstein – Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

An Abdominoplasty (commonly called a tummy tuck) is one of Dr. Epstein’s most often performed surgeries. It is a procedure designed to flatten a protruding abdomen by tightening the muscles in the abdominal wall and removing excess fatty tissue and skin. A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss. Patients who are close to or near their ideal weight will experience the best results.

A tummy tuck does not correct stretch marks, however they may be removed or somewhat improved if they are primarily located on the areas of the excess skin that will be excised.  Many patients combine liposuction or breast augmentation/lift with this procedure for a more complete contoured shape.

How is an Abdominoplasty performed?

Abdominoplasty is an outpatient surgical procedure performed at our facility, Northbrook Plastic Surgery. One incision is made around the belly button and another incision is made from hip to hip. The entire abdominal wall is tightened with sutures and the excess skin and fat are removed. The shape and size of the incision will be determined by the degree of correction necessary.  This procedure takes approximately 3-5 hours depending on the complexity of the case.

What to expect during the recovery period:

• Bruising and swelling are normal and to be expected. This will subside within 1- 2 weeks after surgery
• Discomfort and tenderness are normal and easily controlled with medication
• Numbness to the area of the abdomen is normal and may last as long as 6 months to 1 year
• If drains are used they will remain for 3-7 days after surgery, however Dr. Epstein does not typically use drains
• When Dr. Epstein performs an abdominoplasty no sutures will need to be removed
• A compression garment must be worn for 3-4 weeks after the surgery
• Return to light activity within 1 day post surgery
• Most patients return to work in 1 to 3 weeks after surgery
• Full physical activity may resume within 4 to 6 weeks after surgery
• Incision lines will continue to heal and refine for 1-year post surgery

In private practice since 1992, Dr. Michael A. Epstein has received critical acclaim for his exceptional results and advanced surgical techniques.  An active member of the prestigious American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, he has been featured on numerous television programs and quoted in dozens of newspapers and magazines nationwide. A trusted resource who is highly respected by both the media and his peers, Dr. Epstein’s training, education and surgical skills have made him one of Chicagoland’s leading and most gifted plastic surgeons. His offices are in Northbrook, Illinois.