Alexandrina Saulis, MD, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Hinsdale, IL 120 E. Ogden Avenue Suite #204
Hinsdale, IL 60521
630-920-9404

When dieting and crunches do nothing to firm up your flabby stomach, it's time to consider abdominoplasty. The procedure, commonly abdominoplastycalled a tummy tuck, not only gets rid of excess fat and skin, but also tightens the muscles in your stomach. Our Hinsdale, Oak Brook and Elmhurst, IL area plastic surgeon, Dr. Alexandrina Saulis, shares a few facts about the procedure.

Who can benefit from abdominoplasty?

Your abdomen may no longer be flat if you've been pregnant, particularly if your abdominal muscles separated during the pregnancy. The problem is more likely to occur as you get older, whether you've ever been pregnant or not. Take a look at your relatives. If their stomachs look like yours, your protruding abdomen may be a result of genetics, not anything you did or didn't do. You may also notice sagging if you've had abdominal surgery, or you've lost a lot of weight. Abdominoplasty is an excellent option in all of these cases.

Abdominoplasty may not be a good choice if you smoke, haven't yet reached your goal weight or plan to become pregnant.

What happens during an abdominoplasty?

Before the procedure begins, you'll receive either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation. A horizontal incision will be made between your pubic hair and your belly button. After your abdominal muscles are repaired and skin and fat are removed, the incision will be closed with stitches or clips. In most cases, abdominoplasties in the Hinsdale, Oak Brook and Elmhurst area are outpatient procedures, which means you'll get to go home a few hours after your procedure.

What is the recovery period like?

Prescription pain medication will help keep you comfortable during the first several days after your surgery. You may also notice some abdominal swelling initially. You'll probably need to take about two weeks off from work, although the amount of time may vary based on the type of work you do. Wearing a binder for a few months can reduce swelling and help support your abdominal muscles. Most people can resume their normal activities, including exercising, about six weeks after surgery.

Abdominoplasty can give you a flatter, more sculpted abdomen. Call Hinsdale, Oak Brook and Elmhurst, IL area plastic surgeon, Dr. Saulis to schedule an appointment to discuss the procedure.