Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin, restoring weakened stomach muscles to reveal a smoother, firmer abdomen.
About Abdominoplasty/Tummy Tuck
What is a tummy tuck?
The abdominal region can often be a problem when trying to lose weight and tone up. Abdominal weight can even lead to discomfort and lower back pain. Certain instances of excess fat and skin, weak abdominal muscles, or loose, stretched skin may no longer respond to diet and exercise. An abdominoplasty, more commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess fat and skin, restoring weakened stomach muscles to reveal a smoother, firmer abdomen.
Detroit Plastic Surgery plastic surgeons are experienced and the leaders in Michigan in abdominoplasty/tummy tucks and understand that no two bodies are the same.
A mini tummy tuck is a minimally invasive technique with a much shorter procedure time, less scarring, and quicker recovery. Candidates for this type of tummy tuck carry their excess skin below the navel. Your Detroit Plastic Surgery doctor will help you decide if this is an effective procedure for your desired results by scheduling a complimentary and personal one-on-one consultation with you in our Bingham Farms, Michigan office. Conveniently located off Telegraph Road the Detroit Plastic Surgery office is just minutes from Detroit, Birmingham, Ann Arbor, and Novi. Although many of our patients visit Detroit Plastic Surgery from across the state of Michigan and the greater Midwest area.
A tummy tuck is most commonly performed to achieve the following results:
- Remove excess fat and loose skin from the abdominal area
- Firm abdominal muscles
- Flatten and tone the abdominal area
- Smooth and tighten the contours of the stomach
- Improve the overall balance and proportion of the body
What to expect
- Step 1Consultation
- Step 2Preparation
- Step 3Surgery
- Step 4Recovery
- Step 5Results
Step 1 Consultation
Making the decision to have a tummy tuck is an important one. Rest assured, your consultation at the Detroit Plastic Surgery office in southeast Michigan will be the first step in your journey. A private meeting with our board certified plastic surgeon will review your desired results, health, specific medical background and your age. Together we will develop the right tummy tuck procedure for you. Our goal is to answer all of your questions and develop the right plan for your desired results.
Call today to schedule an appointment with one of our expert Michigan plastic surgeons in the area of tummy tucks.
Step 2 Preparation
Well before your procedure, let Detroit Plastic Surgery know of any medications you take. Three weeks prior and three weeks after, we strongly suggest limiting your alcohol and tobacco intake. Two weeks prior and two weeks after, you should not take any medication that may thin your blood such as aspirin or ibuprofen products.
The evening before your surgery, refrain from eating or drinking anything including water, and do not smoke. If you develop a cold, sore throat, fever or any other symptoms of illness before your surgery, let Detroit Plastic Surgery know right away.
The day of your procedure, refrain from wearing makeup, contact lenses, hairpins, jewelry, lotion or perfume. We also advise wearing comfortable clothing. Prepare to have a responsible adult provide you with transportation after your procedure and make arrangements for any care or assistance you may need 24 hours after surgery. If you are a minor, a parent or guardian must be with you at the time of your procedure.
Step 3 Surgery
Before your procedure, your surgeon will answer any questions that may have come up since your consultation. You will also have the opportunity to meet the Detroit Plastic Surgery staff assisting your surgeon during your procedure. Every effort is made to make certain that all of your concerns are addressed and you are as comfortable as possible.
When it is time to begin, you will be taken to our state-of-the-art surgical suite and comfortably fall asleep under general anesthesia. A mini tummy tuck typically takes one to two hours. A full tummy take can take two to four hours. If your tummy tuck is performed in combination with additional procedures, surgery time will be longer.
Step 4 Recovery
We strongly recommend avoiding strenuous activity and sleeping on your back for a few weeks after surgery. Most patients are back to work within two weeks, but everyone recovers differently and you may need more or less time before you feel 100% again. A few days after your surgery, your Detroit Plastic Surgery doctor will follow-up to see how you are healing and prescribe any necessary medication.
Step 5 Results
While results vary based on the individual, tummy tuck patients most often enjoy a flatter, tighter stomach, a slimmer figure and a nice boost of self-confidence. Often it can take several months to see full results, as your new body contours will continue to develop after surgery. During your consultation, your doctor will thoroughly explain what results to expect.
before & after gallery
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Tummy Tuck Before & After
Take a look at some of our beautiful patient transformations.
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FAQs
Q: Is a tummy tuck right for me?
If you are having a difficult time losing excess belly fat with diet and exercise alone, or if you have excess skin that you want removed from your abdominal area, a tummy tuck may be the right option for you. All tummy tuck candidates must be in good health with no pre-existing medical conditions that could create complications.
Q: What causes excess fat?
Despite having a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and a reasonable amount of exercise, some people still struggle with disproportionate body contours created by localized fat deposits. Sometimes these areas are the result of genetics or aging, as opposed to overeating and a lack of exercise.
Q: What causes cellulite?
Cellulite occurs when fat cells in the deepest layer of the skin become over-inflated, causing the fat cells to protrude up through the tissue creating a dimpling or “cottage cheese” appearance. Eighty percent of women have cellulite regardless of their shape or size.
Q: Why choose Detroit Plastic Surgery for my tummy tuck procedure?
When choosing a plastic surgeon to perform a tummy tuck, there are three important qualifications to consider: training, experience and personal attention. Dr. Hajjar is Board Certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Above all, your doctor should be someone you trust to deliver exceptional results and perform a safe and effective procedure.
Dr. Dr. Hajjar is Board Certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Surgery in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Our doctor spends the necessary time with every patient to answer any questions and address any concerns. We make it a priority to ensure our patients are well-informed and completely comfortable with their decisions. We know that your time is valuable, which is why we maintain an efficient procedure calendar and use the latest techniques and technology to minimize your recovery time and maximize your results.
Q: Will my insurance cover a tummy tuck?
Insurance companies commonly do not cover an elective or cosmetic surgery like a tummy tuck unless it is performed to correct a medical or health condition. If you plan to use insurance as payment, we strongly suggest consulting with your provider to discuss if the procedure is covered in part or in full by your current plan.
Q: Will my tummy tuck have a natural result?
Some tummy tuck techniques are less invasive than others and offer less chance of scarring. Regardless of what tummy tuck technique is used, we focus on creating the most natural results possible. Often it can take several months to see full results, as your new body contours will continue to develop after surgery. During your consultation, your doctor will thoroughly explain what results to expect.
Q: How long will results last?
Results vary based on the individual and are dependent on the amount of excess fat, the laxity of the skin and skin type. Typically, you can expect tummy tuck results to be long lasting, provided you maintain your weight and a healthy lifestyle.
Q: What are the risks of a tummy tuck?
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complication related to infection. Some people may wake up from surgery feeling groggy and experience an upset stomach, side effects of the anesthesia that are very temporary. We are happy to explain in detail any of the risks involved prior to your surgery. We carefully review your complete medical history and all medications you are on to prevent any complications.
Other risks associated with tummy tuck surgery may include:
- Unfavorable scarring
- Bleeding (hematoma)
- Contour irregularities
- Skin sensitivity
Q: Can I have additional procedures in combination with my tummy tuck to enhance results?
Yes, your Detroit Plastic Surgery doctor can recommend additional services to enhance your desired results such as liposuction, VelaShape or CoolSculpting. Detroit Plastic Surgery also offers the option of combining your tummy tuck with a skin resurfacing laser treatment. Lasers promote collagen growth under the skin for a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Trust our clients as
much as they trust us
I was highly recommended Detroit Plastic Surgery by a very good friend of mine to boost my confidence after having my baby. I made an appointment with Chris + form the moment I stepped inside the office, I felt extremely comfortable. She was SO friendly, knowledgeable, and honest while working with me on what I said bothered me. Chris was conservative in her approach with my face, and I can not be happier or recommend her enough! I am SO happy with the results, and will certainly be maintaining and visiting again very soon.
I couldn't be more happier with the entire process. Dr. Hajjar and his staff were extremely competent, professional, and caring throughout the procedure, and the follow up. His skills at suturing are top-notch, and after a couple of weeks I couldn't even see the incision. So thankful that my family doctor referred me to him.
I absolutely love Dr. Lumley!! He is an excellent plastic surgeon and his staff is awesome. I cannot say enough good things about him and the awesome revision job he did on my breast reconstruction surgery. I have recommended him to all of my fellow breast cancer cancer survivors as well as friends, family and coworkers that are looking to have elective surgery. You will not be disappointed.
Dr. Hajjar is highly respected, intelligent and undeniably talented. He worked around an existing condition that could have been a disaster for someone less qualified. He appears to be all business, but does have a good sense of humor and a kind heart. I am thrilled with his office, the procedure and the results 100 percent. Equally as impressive, one of his Fellows, Scott Kreitzberg is probably one of the kindest people I have ever met. He followed up in hospital after surgery and at the first office visit. He is compassionate, listens and truly makes one feel comfortable. I am so thankful for the recommendation of Dr. Raymond Hajjar.
Saw Dr. Hajjar for a breast reduction as I was having health issues due to the size of my breasts. I am now 15 days post op and I look amazing. The scars are healing amazing and they’ve been there for all the questions and concerns I have. I’m already feeling relief in my back and other parts of my body. Best decision I’ve ever made. Highly recommend!