Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss in Bellevue, Washington

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a transformative procedure that can provide incredible results for those who have achieved significant weight loss. After weight loss, excess skin often remains, preventing people from enjoying their new physique.

The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery specializes in tummy tucks tailored to patients who have experienced major weight changes. With a team dedicated to exceptional patient care, The Gallery offers advanced techniques to help patients look and feel their best.

Understanding a Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss

A tummy tuck after weight loss is designed to remove excess skin and tighten the abdominal area, restoring contour and firmness. During significant weight loss, the skin and underlying muscles can become stretched, leaving behind loose, sagging skin that often does not respond to exercise or further weight loss.

A tummy tuck procedure reshapes the abdomen by removing this skin, tightening muscles, and creating a smoother, more contoured look. The surgery benefits those who have lost weight through diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery and want to refine their results.

Benefits of a Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss

An abdominoplasty after weight loss offers several physical and psychological benefits, allowing patients to enjoy the rewards of their hard-earned weight loss. Here are some of the primary benefits:

Enhanced body contour: Removes loose, excess skin for a tighter, more defined look.
Improved muscle tone: Tightens and strengthens abdominal muscles, improving core stability and posture.
Reduced skin irritation: Eliminates discomfort caused by excess skin rubbing or chafing.
Boosted self-confidence: Many patients experience a significant boost in self-esteem and satisfaction with their appearance.
Better clothing fit: A more streamlined silhouette enhances clothing fit and comfort.
Long-lasting results: With a healthy lifestyle, the results of a tummy tuck can be enjoyed for many years.

Candidates for an Abdominoplasty After Weight Loss

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck after weight loss are individuals who have reached a stable weight and are in good health. The procedure is generally suited for those who:

Have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with loose or sagging abdominal skin.
Are non-smokers or patients willing to quit before surgery, as smoking can impede healing?
Have realistic expectations and understand the benefits and limitations of the surgery.
Are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle to preserve the results.

Dr. Craig Jonov at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery conducts thorough evaluations to determine each patient’s candidacy for abdominoplasty, ensuring personalized care and safe, satisfying results.

Interested in a Tummy Tuck after Weight Loss?

To schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Jonov or with questions at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery serving Kirkland, Bellevue, and Seattle, WA.

Types of Tummy Tucks for Weight Loss

Several types of tummy tucks address different degrees of excess skin and muscle laxity, allowing The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery to customize treatments based on each patient’s unique needs.

Traditional Tummy Tuck

A traditional tummy tuck removes skin and tightens muscles in the lower and upper abdomen. This procedure is ideal for individuals with moderate weight loss who still experience excess skin but have not experienced extreme skin laxity.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck targets the abdomen and flanks, making it suitable for patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight. The extended version involves longer incisions to address excess skin on the sides and front of the abdomen, creating a more contoured waistline and lower back.

Fleur-De-Lis Tummy Tuck

The Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is designed for patients with extensive skin laxity following major weight loss. This procedure combines vertical and horizontal incisions, allowing for significant skin removal from the abdomen and sides. The technique mainly benefits individuals who have experienced extreme weight changes, as it addresses extensive sagging and excess tissue.

Abdominoplasty and Liposuction

Combining a tummy tuck with liposuction can provide optimal contouring for patients with minor skin laxity but persistent fat pockets. Liposuction removes stubborn fat deposits while the tummy tuck tightens muscles and removes a moderate amount of excess skin, refining the abdomen for a sleek, toned appearance.

Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss: What to Expect

At The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery, the first step toward your tummy tuck journey is a consultation with Dr. Craig Jonov. During this initial visit, Dr. Jonov will discuss your goals, review your medical history, and assess the areas you’d like to improve.

This personalized consultation allows Dr. Jonov to recommend the best type of tummy tuck for your needs. Patients receive detailed pre-surgical instructions to prepare for the procedure, ensuring the best possible results.

Surgical Steps

A tummy tuck after weight loss generally follows these surgical steps, though the specifics may vary based on the procedure type:

Anesthesia: Patients are placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery.
Incision placement: Dr. Jonov makes incisions in the lower abdomen (and sides if performing an extended or Fleur-de-lis tummy tuck) to minimize visible scarring.
Muscle repair: The abdominal muscles are tightened and secured for a flatter, firmer appearance.
Excess skin removal: Loose skin is carefully removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned for a smooth, contoured effect.
Closing incisions: Incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings or a compression garment are applied to support the healing process.

The entire procedure can last from two to five hours, depending on the type and extent of the tummy tuck.

Recovery Process

Recovery is extremely important following a tummy tuck after weight loss. Patients at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery receive detailed aftercare instructions to ensure optimal healing and results. Here are some critical recovery steps:

Rest and limit activity
Wear compression garments
Sleep elevated
Keep incision sites clean
Take any medication prescribed to promote rest
Attend follow-up appointments

Patients can typically return to light activities within two weeks, and full recovery is expected within six to eight weeks.

Your Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery

If you’re ready to achieve a toned, contoured shape after your weight loss journey, a tummy tuck at The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery in Bellevue can help you reach your goals. With a team dedicated to patient satisfaction and safety, Dr. Jonov and his staff provide comprehensive, compassionate care from consultation to recovery.

To schedule your consultation, contact The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery at (425) 775-3561 or check our Price Simulator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck After Weight Loss Cost in Bellevue?

The cost of a tummy tuck after weight loss varies depending on the type of procedure and individual factors. During your consultation, Dr. Jonov will provide a detailed cost estimate, ensuring transparency and understanding of the investment in your transformation.

What Are the Risks?

While a tummy tuck is generally safe, potential risks include infection, scarring, bleeding, and fluid accumulation. Working with an experienced, board-certified surgeon like Dr. Jonov significantly minimizes these risks, as The Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery prioritizes patient safety and uses advanced techniques.

Does a Tummy Tuck Leave Scars?

Yes, a tummy tuck does leave scars; however, Dr. Jonov takes care to place incisions in discreet locations, often hidden by clothing or undergarments. Proper aftercare and scar management can help minimize their appearance over time.