Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Denver

Abdominoplasty, often called a "tummy tuck," is a popular procedure used to flatten and shape the abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening muscles (the rectus muscles, also called the 6-pack muscles). Dr. Bershof has been performing tummy tucks with excellent cosmetic results for many years. Patients love the look of their new flat stomachs after surgery. A tummy tuck is a powerful operation accomplishing a great deal.

Candidates for a Tummy Tuck

The best candidates for a tummy tuck are in good physical condition with a burden of fat and/or loose skin that haven't responded well to traditional diet and exercise. It is also ideal for women who have stretched muscles from pregnancy, although anyone who was once over weight can have stretched muscles. This procedure can also benefit older, slightly obese people whose skin has lost some of its elasticity.

As mentioned, tummy tucks can be useful for women with stretched skin and muscles from pregnancy, even if they do not have a burden of fat. Results from the tummy tuck procedure will likely diminish if women continue to bear children, so we advise patients who plan to become pregnant to consider postponing this procedure until they are done having children.

We also encourage patients who intend to lose a lot of weight to wait before undergoing the procedure, since skin in the abdominal area typically loosens after substantial weight loss. The best results are when a person is within 20% or less of their ideal body weight.

Customized Treatment for Optimal Cosmetic Results

We take the time during every pre-operative consultation to learn what patients want to achieve from a tummy tuck both for their bodies and for their self-confidence. By listening to what patients have to say and closely examining them rather than performing a one-size-fits-all procedure on every person, we provide patients with a completely customized treatment that takes into account their specific goals. For instance, some patients might benefit from liposuction in other areas at the same time as the tummy tuck.

The Tummy Tuck Procedure

Tummy tucks take approximately 2-4 hours and are performed under general anesthesia. This operation is performed as an outpatient procedure but with an overnight stay (23 hours observation).

There will make two incisions: the main incision is from hipbone to hipbone close to the pubic area (an extended C-section incision), and another incision around the navel. The skin and fat is lifted off the underlying rectus muscles, the muscle are tightened, the excess skin and fat are removed and the incision closed. A new belly button site is created at the correct anatomic position and the navel sutured into position. An abdominal binder is placed and there are drains and stitches that are removed in about one week.

Recovery after Tummy Tuck

Recovery time ranges from 10-14 days for return to office type work, and a few months until patients feel back to normal. You should limit strenuous activities for at least 8-12 weeks. Dr. Bershof will give you specific instructions for your individual recovery. Following these instructions can help speed up your recovery and reduce the risk of any post-surgery complications.

Tummy Tuck Results

A tummy tuck leaves patients with a flatter, more toned abdominal area that fits the natural contours of your body. It can improve a patient's appearance and confidence by helping them look and feel younger and slimmer. The results of this procedure are visible right away and will continue to improve. With a balanced diet and regular exercise, results are long-lasting. Scars will fade a fair amount with time, leaving your stomach sleeker and more defined than ever before.

A tummy tuck will leave a scar spanning the lower abdomen from hip to hip. We are very careful to make the incision low enough for even a bikini to conceal the scar if that is a desire of the patient.

Risks of a Tummy Tuck

Though rare, post-operative complications from any surgical procedure are possible. They may include infection, blood clots, bleeding and poor healing, which may require further surgery.

Patients who have had previous abdominal surgery should know that their old scars might be removed with a tummy tuck, made less conspicuous or more conspicuous, depending upon where they are located.

Partial Abdominoplasty (Mini Tummy Tuck)

Partial abdominoplasty, or "mini tummy tuck", is similar to the regular tummy tuck procedure, except it involves a shorter incision and the skin is only lifted to the navel, which does not have to be moved. This procedure is ideal for patients who need just a little improvement in order to reach their desired results. You can discuss the differences between these procedures, as well as weigh their benefits and risks with Dr. Bershof in order to decide which procedure is best for you.