TUMMY TUCK SURGEON | ABDOMINOPLASTY | CHICAGO, IL
Tummy Tuck surgery is a life-changing procedure that will transform your figure.
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the stomach area and tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall following significant weight loss or pregnancy. The goal of the procedure is to create a smoother, flatter, more toned abdominal profile.
Our team of skilled and certified plastic surgeons at Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics will work with you to achieve the best outcome and help you to achieve a tight, toned and contoured abdomen. With our advanced surgical techniques and extensive experience, we take pride in providing our patients with beautiful, natural-looking tummy tuck results.
What is a tummy Tuck Procedure?
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure in which excess skin and fat are removed from the upper and lower abdomen, and the underlying abdominal muscles are pulled together and tightened. This procedure is designed to restore and enhance the appearance of the abdomen, or “stomach” area. When done correctly, a tummy tuck can completely transform a person's figure.
Although viewed primarily as a cosmetic procedure that is performed for appearances rather than due to medical necessity, a tummy tuck can offer both physical and psychological benefits, particularly for women after pregnancy and either men or women who have lost a significant amount of weight.
Tummy Tuck Benefits
- Improves Appearance: Removes extra sagging skin and fat after pregnancy or major weight loss.
- Improves Posture & Risk of Injury: Repairs and strengthens loose, weakened abdominal muscles, or rectus diastasis. A tummy tuck can help to strengthen the abdominal muscles, reducing the risk of injury.
- Improves Self Confidence: You'll be proud of your smoother, flatter and toned abdomen.
You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck procedure if you have experienced pregnancy or changes in your weight that have resulted in loose skin, bulging fat, or weak muscles in the abdominal area. In some cases, your surgeon may recommend liposuction with your tummy tuck to achieve optimal results. Although tummy tucks are considered elective cosmetic procedures, there are many functional benefits as well.
A tummy tuck can be performed as a stand-alone procedure, or combined with additional procedures to further enhance your overall figure including:
As more men and women learn about the benefits of tummy tuck surgery, the procedure is becoming one of the most popular body contouring options. If you’re interested in improving your midsection, you may have questions about what a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) can do for you.
At Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics, our board-certified tummy tuck surgeons will take the time to answer any concerns you might have so you can feel positive about moving forward with your abdominoplasty procedure.
TUMMY TUCK recovery TIMELINE
- Time off Work: 10-14 days
- Surgery: 2-4 hours
- Mobility: next day
- Shower: after 1st post-op
- Breast Massage: begin after 1st post-op
- Exercise & Gym: 6-8 weeks
- Garment: wear for 6-8 weeks or as directed
- Full Recovery: 6-12 months
*Please note this is just a general guide. Times may vary from patient to patient. Please talk to your surgeon or patient care team if you have any questions during your recovery.
Lymphatic Drainage Massages After Tummy Tuck
We offer lymphatic drainage massage packages for our tummy tuck patients. Getting lymphatic massages after your surgery is recommended due to its benefits and can help optimize your recovery. It is usually best to have 2-3 sessions per week for about 5 weeks. We have different options available to fit your needs and can make them just right for you.
Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
The best candidates for a tummy tuck have loose skin around their abdomen, as well as loose abdominal muscles or excess fatty deposits. Most frequently, abdominoplasty patients are women who have been pregnant, but the procedure can also benefit men or women who have lost a significant amount of weight that left them with baggy skin and an unflattering midsection.
A consultation with your surgeon will help you better understand the results you can expect to see from a tummy tuck and whether you might be a good candidate.
Why Choose Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics
Award-Winning Top Cosmetic Surgeons. Voted "Best of Plastic Surgery" In Chicago, Illinois
Dr. Truong holds three board certifications including the American Board of Surgery, the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, and the American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery. Dr. Truong is the founder and CEO of Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics and is considered one of the Top Breast & Body Surgeons in Illinois.
Dr. Pey-Yi Kevin Lin is a board certified plastic surgeon in Chicago who emphasizes tailored care and treatment to each individual patient. Dr. Lin is skilled in both Plastic and Reconstructive surgery trained under nationally renowned aesthetic and reconstructive surgeons, gaining valuable insight and an unparalleled experience with stunning results.
Dr. Vagotis is a leader in cosmetic procedures of the face and body, with over 33 years of experience in the field of plastic and cosmetic surgery. She trained under Dr. Connel is also known as “the father of the modern facelift”. Because of the training Dr. Vagotis received under Dr. Connell, she possesses special techniques and skills that set her apart from other plastic surgeons in the Midwest.
VERIFIED PATIENT REVIEWS
I Couldn’t Be Happier with my Results and Couldn’t Have Selected a Better Plastic Surgeon!
I recently had a tummy tuck procedure which was performed by Dr. T only about 3 weeks ago. I feel & look great! I can’t express how ecstatic I truly am! I’m in my 30’s with no kids, struggling with weight since I was a teenager. My weight fluctuating over the years caused me to have a pouch (very unattractive). I’m still on the plus size but a hanging belly made me look even heavier and impacted my self-esteem. Before I went to Dr. T for a consult. I reached out to several of the popular Instagram doctors aboard. I watched countless videos of other girls who shared their experiences having surgeries in other countries. I received several cheap quotes compared to the prices in Chicago and other U.S cities. But I just couldn’t risk traveling aboard and jeopardizing my health to save money. I’m writing a long review because prior to my surgery and even before my consultation. I searched endlessly, for honest reviews from other patients who had gotten a tummy tuck and were in the same predicament as myself. It’s only been 3 weeks but my body has transformed and my self-confidence has increased. I’m looking forward to the final results which do take several months.
The recovery has been really easy! Please don’t be disheartened by the scary and painful experiences shared on social media and YouTube. I understand everyone’s body is not the same and each of us will have a different experience with our recovery. With that being sad, having an experienced, board certified, and a gifted plastic surgeon makes all the difference. Honestly, hardest part of the recovery was not being able to drive for the first 2 weeks. Driving restrictions will be given by all plastic surgeons who perform tummy tucks. I was hesitant because it was my surgery and also because of the cost, but Dr. T’s prices are fair, affordable and competitive in the Chicago market. I was not pressured into getting the surgery, my questions were thoroughly answered with kindness and patience by Dr. T, and his wonderful assistant Monika. I asked countless redundant questions and spent a great deal of time with both of them before finalizing my decision. The entire staff is so professional, nonjudgmental, genuinely kind and caring.
Final thoughts, it might be cheaper to travel aboard but it’s not worth the risk. I made decision to undergo my surgery ever with Dr. T, not only because of his merits, academic accomplishments and amazing procedure results and also his swag, but because of his of aura. It’s hard to explain but you will sense it when you meet him, he’s honest, patient, kind and most importantly he’s ethical. He doesn’t recommend unnecessary procedures or enforces changes he wants to see on you. He will help and guide you in achieving the body you have envisioned for yourself. My only regret is not getting a tummy tuck sooner with him. It’s embarrassing but I’m sharing my pictures because I had desperately searched for body types like my own, who had gotten the procedure and wanted to see their results. I hope my very long review helps anyone considering tummy tuck. If you’re in Chicago meet Dr. T if you’re interested in the tummy tuck, it’ll be totally worth it! Always read others review on Realself, never thought I’d be writing one too! 🙂
Dr Truong changed my world!
Dr Truong changed my world! I went to Dr Truong for a tummy tuck, got 2 other opinions and felt Dr Truong was the right Doctor and office. I had (more than 20 years ago) several stomach surgeries and was left with an “Apron” on one side, add to weight gain and it was positively unseemly. Dr Truong did my Surgery in June 2013. I can tuck in my blouse!! The change in looking in the mirror is awesome – I am very happy with my decision and the outcome. The staff and the Doctor are really wonderful – I had poor Suzie on my speed dial and she was the epitome of kindness and courtesy. If you are thinking of surgery – go see DR TRUONG!!
Dr. T and his team are absolutely amazing.
Dr. T and his team are absolutely amazing. I had my initial consultation with Monika and she was so supportive and never once made me feel pressured. After deciding Dr. T was going to be the perfect choice for giving me the results I wanted, I met with him and his nurse Lauren to finalize things before surgery. Again, Dr.T and Lauren made me feel so comfortable. Surgery was a breeze and Lauren and Monika were there for me for any questions I had during healing! Dr. T is a true artist. I have super natural results and a better belly button than my mama gave me. I don’t regret a thing. After two pregnancies and weight fluctuations, I was so unhappy in my own skin. Dr. T has made me look and feel beautiful again.
Dr T. is an artist!
After many, many consultations with numerous surgeons, I came across Dr. T and I instantly knew he was the one I would trust with my body transformation! I had a Tummy tuck, lipo 360 and BBL done. While other doctors were ready and willing to do all 3 at once, Dr. T explained why he wouldn’t do it all at once and they would have to be separate procedures. He took the time to explain the risks and that made it so much easier to choose him. My safety was important to him than making money! I love my body, my confidence is at a level it never has been all thanks to the magic of Dr. T’s hands! His staff is amazing, super friendly and patient! From the receptionist to the patient coordinator, Monika, to the nurses and anesthesiologist at the surgery center! ALL ARE AMAZING! I will be back soon for my breast augmentation! You guys rock!
I was immediately in love with Dr. Troung Tummy Tuck procedures
First of all I’m going to start with OMG!!!! I am living proof that dreams do come true!!! I lost 102 pounds and was happy that I lost the weight but still not completely happy with the way my body looked. I had so much loose skin. I decided to browse the internet and I typed in Best plastics surgeons in Chicago and Chicago Breast and body came up. I went thru all the pics on the website and looked at the reviews. I was immediately in love with Dr. Troung Tummy Tuck procedures. He made the best belly buttons lol. I decided to call and get a consultation and from the moment I made that call. My dream started to manifest. I spoke with Monika who was the sweetest and walked me the all the steps of what I would be going thru. She made me feel so comfortable I instantly took a liking to her. Then I met with Dr Troung who also made me feel more comfortable as well. I already did the research on him so I knew he was very knowledgeable and took pride in his work. He evaluated me and told me what he can do. I was so nervous but the nurse Nikki was so awesome she was very friendly, answered every question that Had and was very supportive in reassuring me that everything will be fine. Well surgery came and Dr Troung did a amazing Job.😍 The staff called and checked on me afterwards to make sure I was okay. My experience was so amazing from start to finish. If you looking for any cosmetic/plastic surgery done. Chicago Breast and Body is definitely the place to go. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾#Tummy Tuck/ Lipo 360 /BBL
Tummy Tuck Before & After Photos
Seeing is believing and our before & after gallery is second to none, with thousands of surgeries, and zero serious complications, it’s no wonder our Chicago Breast & Body surgeons are among the Top Tummy Tuck surgeons in Chicago.
What causes loose skin?
Your skin is designed to be elastic in order to compensate for the changes in the body that occur with growth, weight fluctuation and pregnancy. However, when those changes occur very quickly, as in the case of pregnancy or rapid weight loss, the stretched-out skin may not “snap back” to its former appearance the way it should. This can lead to a flabby appearance caused by extra skin around the tummy that remains behind even when living an active and healthy lifestyle.
Can I get rid of diastasis-recti without surgery?
Can a tummy tuck help reduce my stomach fat?
A tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss and patients should reach their goal weight prior to undergoing surgery. However, if you have subcutaneous fat around your abdomen that persists despite your best weight loss efforts, your surgeon can include liposuction in your abdominoplasty procedure to better contour and further slim your abdomen.
What is the difference between a "full tummy tuck" & "mini-tummy tuck"?
Is your loose skin above or below the belly button?
A Full Tummy Tuck is a complete reconstruction of the abdominal area which includes full removal of the loose skin and fat from the belly button down, a full repair of loose muscles or rectus diastasis if needed, and a reconstruction of umbilicus or belly button.
A mini tummy tuck is a less extensive version of a Full Tummy Tuck. Candidates for a mini-tummy tuck usually:
- Do not require as much skin removed
- The belly button is not detached or reconstructed
- Do not need abdominal muscle repair
If your skin laxity is primarily focused in the lower abdomen, below the belly button, and any abdominal separation is minimal, you may be a good candidate for a mini tummy tuck, which uses a less aggressive approach to address only the lower abdomen.
On the other hand, if you have skin laxity throughout your upper and lower abdomen or more pronounced abdominal separation, a full tummy tuck might be the best option for you.
How do I prepare for Tummy Tuck surgery?
Follow your surgeon's orders
To prepare for your tummy tuck procedure you should always follow your doctor’s pre-and post surgical instructions including:
- Maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated by drinking lots of water
- You should be free of any illnesses or infections
- Do not smoke, use nicotine or other drugs for several weeks prior to your surgery and several weeks after for best chance of proper healing.
- Avoid certain medications such as aspirin, over-the-counter pain killers that can cause excess bleeding.
- Stop taking certain supplements and vitamins unless approved by your surgeon.
- Make sure you have someone to take you home and care for you during your recovery period
Your surgeon’s priority is your SAFETY and giving you the results you desire, so it is very important to follow your doctor’s orders. If you have any questions about how to prepare for surgery don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon!
How long does the surgery take?
Less than 1 hour and up to 4 hours
Because a tummy tuck is such a personalized procedure, the exact duration of your surgery depends on the approach that Dr. Truong uses for you. In some patients whose needs are minimal, a tummy tuck can take less than an hour. For others, the procedure can last 4 hours or more. The best way to gain a better understanding of how long your particular abdominoplasty will last is to come in for a consultation with Dr. Truong so that he can assess your needs.
What type of anesthesia is required for a tummy tuck procedure?
Most Tummy Tuck surgeries are performed under general anesthesia.
Abdominoplasty surgeries are done most safely under general anesthesia. This is because the procedure involves removal of extra skin, tightening of abdominal muscles, and reconstruction of the umbilicus. Tummy Tucks can take 2-3 hours to perform and patients are kept most comfortable under general anesthesia. In most cases however, Tummy Tucks are outpatient procedures and patients can go home the same day as their surgery in order to recover at home.
Will I need drains after a tummy tuck?
Yes.
You will most likely need drains following your tummy tuck. Drains are temporary tubes that are placed during surgery to help drain excess fluid which can build up under the stretched skin. In most cases, the drains can be removed easily in the office after 5-7 days. You will be instructed on how to care for your drains including how to clean them and empty them.
How long does it take to recover?
The average downtime for a Tummy Tuck is 10-14 days.
You should take at least 1 week off from work and other responsibilities to rest and recover. You may be provided with a compression garment to wear, which can help speed up the tummy tuck recovery process by promoting blood flow and reducing swelling.
While everyone’s recovery experience is different and your recovery will vary depending on the type of abdominoplasty you get, you can expect to feel some soreness around the site of your incision accompanied by some degree of discomfort in the abdominal area.
You may download our complete tummy tuck post-operative instructions.
You can read more tips on how to prepare for your Tummy Tuck recovery.
Tummy Tuck Recovery Time
- 1 week – You will be instructed to rest at home and care for your drains. You will not be completely bed-ridden, but you will be moving slow and may need extra help at home.
- 2 weeks – Your drains will be out, and you should be able to walk, perform daily functions, drive, and most patients are able to return to work given your job is not physical. You may still have some discomfort, but most patients are no longer taking pain medication.
- 4-6 weeks – You should be able to resume most activities including light to moderate exercise.
- 3 months – You should be back to essentially full activity and your scars should be mostly healed and feeling mostly normal. You may still have tightness and your scar may still be red or purple.
- 6 months – Your scar should be starting to fade, your sensation should be almost normal again, and the skin and tissues are soft and natural-feeling.
- 1 year – You should feel completely normal and your scar should be fading and will continue to fade over time.
Will a tummy tuck leave bad scars?
As with all surgeries, the scarring from an abdominoplasty is permanent but the scar should fade over time. An experienced tummy tuck surgeon will take special care to place the scar below your bikini line, meaning your scar shouldn’t be visible even if you’re only wearing a bathing suit. Scar cream or scar treatment may be recommended to help reduce the appearance of your scar.
How long will I have to wait before seeing my final results?
Immediate results! Full results after 6 months...
Your abdominoplasty results will be noticeable immediately after your surgery and continue to improve once the swelling and bruising subsides. While post-operative swelling should decrease significantly over the first several weeks, your final results may not be apparent for up to 6 months after surgery.
How much does a tummy tuck cost in Chicago?
The average cost for a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure in Chicago, Illinois by an experienced surgeon can average between $10,000 – $15,000 or more. Your Tummy Tuck pricing is considered a reconstructive surgery and will vary based on your specific case, your surgeon’s experience, who administers your anesthesia, and where you get the surgery. While price is important, it shouldn’t be the only deciding factor. Just because a doctor offers this procedure does not mean he is qualified or board-certified in performing abdominoplasty surgery.
We offer several financing options such as CareCredit and Alphaeon. You may apply at home or talk to your coordinator about options available to you.
You can call our office 312-846-1529 or check out our specials page to see if one is going on now.
Think about how good it will feel to no longer
have all that loose skin...
Imagine your clothes fitting just right . . .
Imagine being comfortable in your bikini at the beach or the pool!
