Tummy Tucks Portland, Oregon

A flat stomach and a trim waist are often associated with youth and fitness. But for many, no amount of diet and exercise can eliminate the loose skin and fatty deposits that accumulate in the midsection. Some people are genetically inclined to store fat around the waist, while others have excess skin and lax muscles due to pregnancy or significant weight loss.

Abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck surgery, can eliminate excess skin and fat and repair separated muscles to create a slimmer, tighter midsection. For tummy tuck patients from Portland, Oregon to Vancouver, Washington, plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Chung performs abdominoplasty to re-shape the abdomen and create an attractive waistline. He also offers other body contouring options such as liposuction for women and men who want a more comprehensive body makeover.

If you would like to learn more about abdominoplasty, click here to request your complimentary consultation with Dr. Chung, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in tummy tucks for patients from Portland, Oregon to Olympia, Washington.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty is an effective option for anyone who is unhappy with a protruding, sagging stomach. However, this surgery is particularly popular among women whose abdominal skin and muscles have been overtaxed by pregnancy, and those who have experienced significant weight loss, such as post-bariatric patients. The procedure eliminates the rolls of excess skin and fat, and also tightens the lax muscles of the abdomen, resulting in a smaller waist and a flatter, smoother stomach.

Your Abdominoplasty Procedure

Tummy tucks are performed as outpatient procedures with the patient under general anesthesia. The incision for a full abdominoplasty runs horizontally between the two pelvic bones, and is carefully placed so that it is hidden beneath underwear or a bathing suit.

During surgery, the separated abdominal muscles are bound back together, and excess skin is removed. As part of a tummy tuck procedure, a more youthful, natural looking belly-button is created. In the majority of abdominoplasty surgeries, liposuction is used to remove fat and enhance the contour of the waist.

Recovery and Results

Following your tummy tuck at our Vancouver, Washington area surgery center, your activity will be limited for approximately 7 to 10 days. Although you may be unable to stand fully upright for the first day or two, you will be instructed to walk around to avoid the formation of blood clots. You will have dressings on your incisions as well as a compression garment. A drainage tube is often used to prevent the accumulation of fluid which is typically removed during your first or second office visit.

After approximately 2 weeks, you will be able to resume light activities. Dr. Chung will monitor your recovery and advise you as to when and to what extent you may begin exercising. After a few weeks, you may begin to show off your new, tighter, more toned abdomen.

To minimize scarring and maximize surgical outcomes, Dr. Chung incorporates laser treatments at Flourish Skin & Laser as a part of your aftercare. Beginning approximately 6 weeks after surgery, you may undergo a series of spa treatments to improve both the color and elevation of your scars.

To find out if you are a good candidate for abdominoplasty, click here to request your complimentary consultation with Dr. Christopher Chung, a board-certified Olympia area plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring procedures. Or you can call our office at (360) 430-8431 to schedule your appointment.