Chicago Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Surgeon – Dr. Gikas

An abdominoplasty, better known as a tummy tuck, is designed to give you a firmer and flatter abdomen. Abdominoplasty surgery is performed to tighten abdominal muscles that have become overly stretched and to remove excess, loose skin from the abdominal region. These undesired features can result from factors such as pregnancy, weight loss or weight gain and personal genetics.

Unfortunately, when stretched beyond the capacity to return to their normal state, abdominal tissues don't always respond to proper exercise and healthy dieting.

In these common cases, abdominoplasty can usually provide an immediate solution and pleasing appearance in the treatment of stubborn fat deposits of the abdominal area.

A tummy tuck can create a firmer and flatter abdomen as well as a smaller waist. In addition to the extent of the abdominoplasty procedure, factors such as the patient's skin tone, body build and the individual's personal healing process contribute to the surgical outcome of the procedure. An abdominoplasty is performed by making an incision from hipbone to hipbone, just above the pubic area to minimize the visibility of scarring. Excess skin is removed and the underlying muscles of the abdominal wall are tightened, enhancing the Chicago tummy tuck patient's figure and often their self-confidence.

For those not wishing to have a traditional abdominoplasty procedure, there is also the mini tummy tuck, which requires only a short horizontal incision above the pubic area, the extent of which depends on the skin laxity and amount of skin removed. The placement of the scar is well concealed by most bikinis and heals very well in most patients. This lower-scaled procedure is often combined with liposuction and the tightening of the lower abdominal muscles. Another alternative to a complete abdominoplasty is having liposuction to remove fat from the abdominal region. Liposuction can be performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck. During your consultation, your doctor will discuss with you the best options for your personal health and cosmetic goals.

Ideal candidates for an abdominoplasty procedure are men and women in good health and relatively good shape who have not been able to significantly diminish stubborn fat deposits and excess skin with proper exercise and dieting. For those planning to lose a significant amount of weight or women who plan to have further pregnancies, it may be best to postpone abdominoplasty surgery. It is important to start your plastic surgery process with a positive attitude and realistic expectations. While an abdominoplasty can dramatically improve your figure and reduce the appearance of a protruding abdomen, it is not a solution for weight loss or a replacement for exercise and a healthy diet. The abdominoplasty procedure is often received by Dr. Gikas' Chicago liposuction and mommy makeover patients in order to achieve their ideal body image.

For more information about having an abdominoplasty, contact renowned Chicago plastic surgeon Dr. Gikas at (773) 878-6525.

Be sure to view before and after abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) pictures in our photo gallery.