Tummy Tuck
in Phoenix, AZ
Abdominoplasty (also known as a tummy tuck) is a procedure in which a plastic surgeon removes fat, tightens skin, and gives your belly a more sculpted and firmer look. Whether it is stubborn fat that does not respond to diet and exercise, or simply the aftereffects of pregnancy and childbirth, a tummy tuck at Regency Specialties in Phoenix will help you achieve a tighter and more contoured appearance. Schedule a consultation to receive a personal consultation and an informed decision about your aesthetic goals.
Table Of Contents
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
As one of the most popular surgical cosmetic procedures, a tummy tuck removes fat, eliminates excess skin, and restores the abdomen after pregnancy or significant weight loss. This transformative surgery addresses the loose, drooping tissue that often makes patients self-conscious. A tummy tuck can significantly improve confidence and quality of life.
What Causes Loose Stomach Skin?
What Causes Loose Stomach Skin?
The abdominal muscles separate and become very weak when the stomach goes through a considerable change, such as pregnancy or significant weight loss. When this happens, a diet and exercise regimen cannot do much to improve the area. This can be disheartening for an individual who wants his or her body to look its absolute best.
Types of Tummy Tucks
Full Tummy Tuck
Full Tummy Tuck A full tummy tuck is a comprehensive surgical procedure designed to tighten and reshape the entire abdominal area. This procedure involves removing excess skin and fat while also repairing separated abdominal muscles, which often occur after pregnancy or significant weight loss. By addressing these separated muscles, a full tummy tuck restores core strength and improves the overall contour of the midsection, resulting in a flatter, firmer stomach and enhanced body proportions.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Mini Tummy Tuck A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive option focusing primarily on the lower abdomen below the belly button. This procedure is ideal for patients with minimal skin laxity who do not require muscle repair. The mini tummy tuck typically involves a smaller incision and a shorter recovery time, targeting localized fat and skin removal to achieve a more toned and tightened lower belly without the extensive intervention of a full tummy tuck.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Extended Tummy Tuck An extended tummy tuck is a more extensive variation of the tummy tuck procedure, designed for patients with excess skin and fat that extends beyond the abdomen to the flanks or lower back. This procedure combines the benefits of a traditional tummy tuck with additional contouring of the sides, dramatically improving body shape. The extended tummy tuck procedure is especially effective for those who have undergone significant weight loss and seek a smoother, more sculpted torso.
Full Tummy Tuck
Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck is a comprehensive surgical procedure designed to tighten and reshape the entire abdominal area. This procedure involves removing excess skin and fat while also repairing separated abdominal muscles, which often occur after pregnancy or significant weight loss. By addressing these separated muscles, a full tummy tuck restores core strength and improves the overall contour of the midsection, resulting in a flatter, firmer stomach and enhanced body proportions.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck is a less invasive option focusing primarily on the lower abdomen below the belly button. This procedure is ideal for patients with minimal skin laxity who do not require muscle repair. The mini tummy tuck typically involves a smaller incision and a shorter recovery time, targeting localized fat and skin removal to achieve a more toned and tightened lower belly without the extensive intervention of a full tummy tuck.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is a more extensive variation of the tummy tuck procedure, designed for patients with excess skin and fat that extends beyond the abdomen to the flanks or lower back. This procedure combines the benefits of a traditional tummy tuck with additional contouring of the sides, dramatically improving body shape. The extended tummy tuck procedure is especially effective for those who have undergone significant weight loss and seek a smoother, more sculpted torso.
Consultation &
Preparation for Plastic
Surgery
Consultation & Preparation for Plastic Surgery
Preparation for a tummy tuck begins with a thorough consultation where our surgeon reviews the patient’s medical history to ensure safety and suitability for the procedure. This step is especially important for weight loss patients, who may have unique considerations related to skin elasticity and overall health.
During the consultation, our surgeon discusses the patient’s goals, including the removal of unwanted fat and the possibility of muscle tightening to restore abdominal tone. For those with less extensive concerns, a mini-abdominoplasty might be recommended as a more targeted approach. Careful planning helps tailor the surgery to achieve the best possible results while minimizing risks.
Tummy Tuck Surgery
Anesthesia
Our custom tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia to ensure complete comfort and safety throughout the procedure. The surgery typically lasts between one and five hours, depending on the extent of work required. A tummy tuck is an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day with proper post-operative care instructions.
Incisions
The incisions made during the tummy tuck are strategically placed within the bikini line to keep them as discreet as possible. This careful placement helps minimize visible scarring while providing adequate access to underlying tissues. The length and shape of the incision depend on the specific type of tummy tuck performed.
Excess Skin Removal
Our surgeon carefully disconnects the skin from the underlying tissue to access the abdominal muscles. Excess skin is then removed to create a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. This step is crucial for patients with significant skin laxity following weight loss or pregnancy.
Liposuction
Liposuction may also be performed (this will be discussed during your consultation). Using a specialized cannula, the surgeon breaks up and removes unwanted fatty tissue from the abdominal region. This combination approach enhances body contouring by addressing both skin and fat layers.
Muscle Repair
The patient often requires muscle repair to correct separated or weakened abdominal muscles. Our surgeon uses permanent internal sutures to restore these muscles to their proper position, improving core strength and abdominal shape. This muscle tightening is essential for achieving a flat and toned midsection.
Belly Button Repositioning
When excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen, the natural position of the belly button can shift. To maintain a natural appearance, our surgeon repositions the belly button through a small, precise incision. This step ensures the belly button remains centered and proportional to the newly contoured abdomen.
Incision Closure
After all adjustments, the incisions are carefully closed with sutures designed to promote healing and reduce scarring. Our surgeon may use layered stitching techniques to support the tissue beneath the skin for better long-term results. Finally, the area is dressed and bandaged to protect the surgical site during the initial recovery phase.
Anesthesia
Our custom tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia to ensure complete comfort and safety throughout the procedure. The surgery typically lasts between one and five hours, depending on the extent of work required. A tummy tuck is an outpatient procedure, allowing patients to return home the same day with proper post-operative care instructions.
Incisions
The incisions made during the tummy tuck are strategically placed within the bikini line to keep them as discreet as possible. This careful placement helps minimize visible scarring while providing adequate access to underlying tissues. The length and shape of the incision depend on the specific type of tummy tuck performed.
Excess Skin Removal
Our surgeon carefully disconnects the skin from the underlying tissue to access the abdominal muscles. Excess skin is then removed to create a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. This step is crucial for patients with significant skin laxity following weight loss or pregnancy.
Liposuction
Liposuction may also be performed (this will be discussed during your consultation). Using a specialized cannula, the surgeon breaks up and removes unwanted fatty tissue from the abdominal region. This combination approach enhances body contouring by addressing both skin and fat layers.
Muscle Repair
The patient often requires muscle repair to correct separated or weakened abdominal muscles. Our surgeon uses permanent internal sutures to restore these muscles to their proper position, improving core strength and abdominal shape. This muscle tightening is essential for achieving a flat and toned midsection.
Belly Button Repositioning
When excess skin and fat are removed from the lower abdomen, the natural position of the belly button can shift. To maintain a natural appearance, our surgeon repositions the belly button through a small, precise incision. This step ensures the belly button remains centered and proportional to the newly contoured abdomen.
Incision Closure
After all adjustments, the incisions are carefully closed with sutures designed to promote healing and reduce scarring. Our surgeon may use layered stitching techniques to support the tissue beneath the skin for better long-term results. Finally, the area is dressed and bandaged to protect the surgical site during the initial recovery phase.
Tummy Tuck Recovery
You will receive detailed home care instructions to help with your recovery. You will also be given a compression garment to wear for up to six weeks. Our surgeon may place surgical drains to help avoid fluid accumulation in the treatment areas. This will be talked about during your initial consultation.
Generally, a tummy tuck requires certain aftercare, and it is very important that you arrange for someone to help you for at least a week after your operation. Many patients schedule their operation when a friend or family member can help them.
Patients are usually fully recovered from a tummy tuck at six weeks, and most are able to return to light work after about two weeks. Exercise should be greatly limited for six weeks, and you must avoid lifting over ten pounds for the first 4 to 6 weeks after your surgery. This includes pets and children.
Ready to get started?
Book your consultation today and let’s talk about how we can help you reach your goals.
How to Minimize Tummy Tuck Scars
How to Minimize Tummy Tuck Scars
A tummy tuck is a highly effective body contouring procedure, but like any surgery, it does leave scars. Fortunately, there are ways to promote healing and reduce the appearance of these marks over time. Most patients find their scars fade significantly with proper care and are easily concealed.
Scar care tips:
- Follow all post-operative instructions to support healing and minimize swelling around the incision sites.
- Keep the incision area clean and protected to prevent infection, which can worsen scarring.
- Wear compression garments as advised to improve circulation and aid in skin retraction, especially in cases of skin laxity.
- Avoid direct sun exposure on healing skin to prevent darkening of the scar tissue.
- Use silicone sheets or scar-reducing creams if recommended by your surgeon as part of your body sculpting recovery plan.
- Attend all follow-up appointments to ensure the healing process is on track and address any concerns early.
Tummy Tuck Candidates
People consider tummy tuck surgery for many reasons, often related to changes in the body caused by life events, weight fluctuations, or aging. A consultation will help determine whether this body contouring procedure is appropriate based on each patient’s health, goals, and physical condition. The following groups often qualify as candidates for a tummy tuck:
- Individuals with significant skin laxity after pregnancy
- Weight loss patients with loose abdominal skin
- People with separated abdominal muscles
- Adults at a stable, healthy weight
- Those with stubborn, unwanted fat in the midsection
- Patients in overall good health and without conditions that impair healing
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit before surgery
- Individuals not planning future pregnancies
Key Benefits of a Tummy Tuck
- Improves loose, sagging skin left over from pregnancy or weight loss
- Restores weakened or separated muscles
- Provides a more sculpted stomach
- Improves the “C-section scar bulge” that can appear underneath clothing
- May also help with medical issues, such as hernias, urinary incontinence, bloating, posture, and back pain
- Helps make workouts more effective
Cost of Tummy
Tucks in Phoenix, AZ
Tummy tuck cost in Phoenix, AZ, ranges from $7,000 to $15,000, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the extent of correction needed. Factors such as the amount of excess skin, whether liposuction is included, and the need to repair weakened abdominal muscles can all influence the final price. During the consultation, a personalized surgical plan is created to match the patient’s goals and anatomy, ensuring both aesthetic improvement and long-term core support.
Tummy Tuck FAQs
Why doesn’t diet and exercise improve the appearance of my abdomen?
Sometimes, even with a healthy lifestyle, excess skin and stubborn fat around the abdomen persist due to factors like aging, genetics, or past pregnancies. A tummy tuck can address these concerns by removing loose skin and tightening muscles for a smoother, firmer look.
Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?
A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure but rather a body contouring surgery. While it removes excess skin and may involve some fat removal, its primary goal is to create a toned abdominal appearance rather than reduce body weight.
How can I determine the best type of tummy tuck for my needs?
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is the best way to determine which tummy tuck type is right for you. We will assess factors like the amount of excess skin, muscle laxity, and your aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable option, whether it’s a mini, full, or extended tummy tuck.
Why is traditional tummy tuck the most common abdominoplasty procedure?
The standard tummy tuck procedure is the most common form of abdominoplasty because it effectively addresses excess skin and the repair of underlying abdominal muscles. It offers comprehensive contouring results, making it ideal for patients who have experienced pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations after bariatric surgery. This procedure delivers a more defined and balanced silhouette by tightening and reshaping the entire abdominal area.
Is it possible to combine a tummy tuck with other cosmetic surgeries?
Yes, many patients choose to combine a typical tummy tuck with procedures like liposuction or breast enhancement as part of a “mommy makeover” to achieve more comprehensive results. Discuss your goals with your surgeon to explore safe combination options.
I have a tattoo on my abdomen. Will a tummy tuck affect it?
A tummy tuck may impact an abdominal tattoo depending on its placement and the extent of the skin removed. If preserving the tattoo is important, talk to your surgeon to see if it can be repositioned or minimized during surgery.
Is it possible to remove stretch marks through a tummy tuck surgery?
Yes, most tummy tuck patients see a noticeable reduction in stretch marks, especially those on the lower abdomen. During surgery, removing excess abdominal skin often eliminates many of the marks in that region. A tummy tuck can provide both aesthetic and functional improvements for individuals with a stable weight who want a flat stomach and a more toned appearance.
What happens if I gain weight after abdominoplasty?
Gaining weight after surgery can impact your tummy tuck results by stretching the skin and potentially creating new pockets of excess fat. While moderate fluctuations are common, significant weight gain can compromise the long-term outcome. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to preserve your investment and the aesthetic benefits of the procedure.
Why is it crucial to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon?
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential for safety, precision, and optimal results. Our tummy tuck surgeons are trained to tighten abdominal muscles properly while ensuring the entire surgical procedure is performed with advanced skill and attention to detail. They also provide comprehensive care, including appropriate pain medication management, to support a smooth recovery.
Is there a more long-lasting solution for loose skin in the abdominal area?
No, tummy tuck is the most effective cosmetic surgery for removing excess skin in the abdominal area. Each tummy tuck performed by our skilled surgeons is designed to deliver a smoother abdominal contour by addressing both the skin and the underlying abdominal wall. Surgical tummy tuck options remain the most effective and lasting solution for patients at a healthy weight who want to eliminate stubborn fat deposits and achieve a toned abdomen. Unlike non-invasive treatments, this approach offers transformative results for those with significant laxity and low skin elasticity.
Why doesn’t diet and exercise improve the appearance of my abdomen?
Sometimes, even with a healthy lifestyle, excess skin and stubborn fat around the abdomen persist due to factors like aging, genetics, or past pregnancies. A tummy tuck can address these concerns by removing loose skin and tightening muscles for a smoother, firmer look.
Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?
A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure but rather a body contouring surgery. While it removes excess skin and may involve some fat removal, its primary goal is to create a toned abdominal appearance rather than reduce body weight.
How can I determine the best type of tummy tuck for my needs?
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is the best way to determine which tummy tuck type is right for you. We will assess factors like the amount of excess skin, muscle laxity, and your aesthetic goals to recommend the most suitable option, whether it’s a mini, full, or extended tummy tuck.
Why is traditional tummy tuck the most common abdominoplasty procedure?
The standard tummy tuck procedure is the most common form of abdominoplasty because it effectively addresses excess skin and the repair of underlying abdominal muscles. It offers comprehensive contouring results, making it ideal for patients who have experienced pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations after bariatric surgery. This procedure delivers a more defined and balanced silhouette by tightening and reshaping the entire abdominal area.
Is it possible to combine a tummy tuck with other cosmetic surgeries?
Yes, many patients choose to combine a typical tummy tuck with procedures like liposuction or breast enhancement as part of a “mommy makeover” to achieve more comprehensive results. Discuss your goals with your surgeon to explore safe combination options.
I have a tattoo on my abdomen. Will a tummy tuck affect it?
A tummy tuck may impact an abdominal tattoo depending on its placement and the extent of the skin removed. If preserving the tattoo is important, talk to your surgeon to see if it can be repositioned or minimized during surgery.
Is it possible to remove stretch marks through a tummy tuck surgery?
Yes, most tummy tuck patients see a noticeable reduction in stretch marks, especially those on the lower abdomen. During surgery, removing excess abdominal skin often eliminates many of the marks in that region. A tummy tuck can provide both aesthetic and functional improvements for individuals with a stable weight who want a flat stomach and a more toned appearance.
What happens if I gain weight after abdominoplasty?
Gaining weight after surgery can impact your tummy tuck results by stretching the skin and potentially creating new pockets of excess fat. While moderate fluctuations are common, significant weight gain can compromise the long-term outcome. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is essential to preserve your investment and the aesthetic benefits of the procedure.
Why is it crucial to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon?
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is essential for safety, precision, and optimal results. Our tummy tuck surgeons are trained to tighten abdominal muscles properly while ensuring the entire surgical procedure is performed with advanced skill and attention to detail. They also provide comprehensive care, including appropriate pain medication management, to support a smooth recovery.
Is there a more long-lasting solution for loose skin in the abdominal area?
No, tummy tuck is the most effective cosmetic surgery for removing excess skin in the abdominal area. Each tummy tuck performed by our skilled surgeons is designed to deliver a smoother abdominal contour by addressing both the skin and the underlying abdominal wall. Surgical tummy tuck options remain the most effective and lasting solution for patients at a healthy weight who want to eliminate stubborn fat deposits and achieve a toned abdomen. Unlike non-invasive treatments, this approach offers transformative results for those with significant laxity and low skin elasticity.
Why Choose Regency Specialties?
If you are interested in a tummy tuck in Phoenix, Buckeye, Surprise, or the nearby areas, put yourself in the skilled hands of artistic and experienced professionals. We are a patient-centric, multi-specialty group delivering the very best treatments in dermatology, plastic surgery, breast oncology, reconstruction, and dermatopathology, all in one practice. This offers a convenient solution for our patients. We provide the highest level of care and availability, with experienced specialists. You will feel completely welcome from the moment you enter our door to your very last follow-up appointment. If you are considering receiving an abdominoplasty in Buckeye, Arizona, or the nearby areas of Phoenix or Surprise and would like to learn more, please call 623-243-9077 or contact us online.
Our Credentials
- National leader in dermatology and Mohs treatment of skin cancer
- Arizona Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Society Board Member since 2017
- In practice for over 20 years
- Over 50,000 Mohs surgeries performed
- “Top Performer Clinic — Overall Patient Experience” 2013 from Health Stream
