Abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck, is a primary focus at our Denver, Colorado practice. When you visit us for a consultation, we’ll take all the time you need to address any questions or concerns you may have. To provide you with a bit more information beforehand, please see the list below for some of our patients’ most frequently asked questions.
When you’re ready, you can request a consultation or call 303-345-7476 to meet with board-certified plastic surgeon and abdominoplasty specialist Dr. Francesco Campanile.
Q: What Is a Tummy Tuck?
A: A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that tightens the underlying muscles in the abdomen and removes excess skin and fatty tissue for a firmer, smoother lower body profile. Dr. Campanile offers three different surgical approaches for his patients:
- A traditional tummy tuck repairs lax or separated muscles while eliminating excess skin and tissue for a slimmer profile.
- A mini tummy tuck specifically addresses appearance concerns in the lower abdomen, and offers a less invasive approach that still delivers beautiful results.
- Dr. Campanile’s exclusive C.L.A.S.S.® technique combines the benefits of traditional abdominoplasty with the finesse of liposuction in a revolutionary lipoabdominoplasty procedure that creates more natural contours with a faster, easier (and drain-free!) recovery.
Q: Am I a Candidate?
A: Abdominoplasty is ideal for those men and women who are at or near their target weight and have maintained that weight steadily, but still have a noticeable paunch around their midsection. A tummy tuck isn’t an alternative to diet or exercise, and shouldn’t be considered if you’re still planning on significant weight loss in the future. Women who plan on becoming pregnant should delay surgery until after their pregnancy. The best abdominoplasty candidates are in good health mentally and physically, and should maintain realistic expectations about their results.
Q: Will a Tummy Tuck Get Rid of My Stretch Marks?
A: In some cases, abdominoplasty can improve the appearance of stretch marks, while in other cases they may remain visible after surgery. The outcome depends on the placement of the stretch marks themselves; those that appear lower on the belly may end up removed during surgery if they’re on the skin that is ultimately excised. Stretch marks that run along the flanks or upper abdomen may change in position or become less apparent with the skin pulled taut, but will remain visible. If the appearance of stretch marks is a concern for you, be sure to discuss this priority with Dr. Campanile.
Q: Doesn’t Liposuction Slim Down the Tummy Too?
A: While it’s true that liposuction is another body contouring procedure, the same results aren’t really possible through liposuction alone. That’s because abdominoplasty addresses skin and muscle while lipo only removes fat cells. As a result, lipo is best for men and women with isolated problem spots, while a tummy tuck is better for those who’ve noticed significant changes in their abdominal muscle tone or have noticeably loose or hanging skin throughout the abdomen, both of which are common following pregnancy or rapid weight loss.
Q: If Lipo and a Tummy Tuck Both Help Improve My Figure, Can’t I Combine Them?
A: Absolutely. In fact, that’s the philosophy behind Dr. Campanile’s distinctive C.L.A.S.S.® technique, which combines liposuction and abdominoplasty together in a single procedure that really brings out the best in both body contouring options.
Q: What Should I Expect During Surgery?
A: The surgical technique will vary slightly depending on which approach Dr. Campanile feels will best meet your expectations. All three options start with an incision that’s made across the lowest part of the belly, running from hip to hip. For a mini tummy tuck, this incision may be a little shorter. Next, the abdominal wall is surgically tightened using internal sutures; the skin is then redraped and any excess skin and tissue is removed.
Q: What Should I Expect During Recovery?
A: You’ll feel sore at first, especially when you’re standing upright, and you’ll have dressings on your incision. There will be some swelling initially, but this should resolve within the first month. After a week or two, you can return to normal light activities, but wait until you feel more comfortable and have Dr. Campanile’s approval before resuming your normal workout routine.
Q: When Will I See Results?
A: You’ll notice a difference in your silhouette right away after surgery, although it may be disguised by early post-operative swelling. In general, you’ll notice improved contours throughout your upper and lower abdomen. If you had loose or hanging folds of skin through the lower belly, the area will now be firm and smooth.
Q: Will My New Look Be Permanent?
A: Abdominoplasty is a permanent procedure, and you should enjoy your new look for many years to come. However, if a large amount of weight is gained in the future, it’s possible for the abdominal muscles to stretch out again. Future pregnancies can also impact the results of your tummy tuck.
