Breast & Body Procedures

We provide plastic surgery in Lake County, Libertyville IL.

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Dr. Tijunelis in Lake County, Libertyville IL.

Meet Dr. Tijunelis

We provide plastic surgery services to the Libertyville, IL area. If you would like more information on tummy tucks, liposuction, face lifts, breast enlargements, or any other plastic surgery services, please contact us.

Abdominoplasty “Tummy Tuck”

At a Glance:

Description:	Flatten abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening muscles of abdominal wall.
Length:	2 to 3 hours.
Anesthetic:	General, or local with sedation.
Outpatient vs. Inpatient:	Mostly outpatient; individual cases may be admitted for overnight observation.
Side Effects:	Temporary discomfort. Swelling, soreness, numbness and/or bruising of abdomen.
Risks:	Blood clots. Infection. Bleeding under the skin. Poor healing resulting in conspicuous scarring or skin loss. Need for a touch-up operation.
Recovery:	Back to work: 2 weeks. Exercise: 4 to 6 weeks or more.

Abdominoplasty, or a “tummy tuck,” is designed to correct a protruding abdomen resulting from weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy. Obesity causes the skin to lose its elasticity. These conditions may not respond well to diet or exercise if the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched. Please contact us for a consultation if you are considering getting a "tummmy tuck" in Libertyville, Illinois.

With abdominoplasty, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened and excess fatty tissue and skin are removed to improve the body contour. The goal is a narrower, flatter abdomen. Realistic expectations are important. Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss.

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that will not respond to diet or exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which frequently occurs with slight obesity, can also be improved. Patients who intend to lose a lot of weight should postpone the surgery. Also, women who plan future pregnancies should wait, as vertical muscles in the abdomen that are tightened during surgery can separate again during pregnancy. If you have scarring from previous abdominal surgery, your doctor may recommend against abdominoplasty or may caution you that scars could be unusually prominent.

Before Surgery

We will take a complete medical history and conduct a careful examination to evaluate your general, overall health. Photographs will be taken before and after surgery.

Antibiotics will be prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection, or you may receive them in the operating area prior to surgery. To minimize the possibility of excess bleeding, you will need to avoid taking drugs containing aspirin 2 weeks prior to surgery. You may also be asked to bathe with an antiseptic soap for several days prior to surgery.

The Procedure

Abdominoplasty is performed using general anesthesia. You may be given medication beforehand so you will feel relaxed. The surgery may take 2-5 hours, depending on your overall condition. You may be released after a few hours, or you may require a couple days of hospitalization.

The procedure is most commonly performed by making a U-shaped incision below one hipbone, across the pubic area and under the other hipbone. A second incision is made around the navel. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up to the hipbone, exposing loose tissue covering the abdominal muscle.

Loose, stretched out muscles are tightened with sutures, and excess skin and fat are removed. The skin is lowered over the abdomen and the navel is reconstructed. The incisions are then sutured together. Drains are often inserted to eliminate fluid buildup, and firm elastic bandages are applied to the area.

Recovery: What to Expect

You may also elect to use a pain pump catheter, which will be offered to you and discussed prior to your surgery. You may experience some discomfort immediately following surgery that can be controlled by pain pills. Some swelling and bruising is normal. You will receive your special instructions before you go home.

The speed of recovery depends on your physical condition prior to surgery; those with stronger abdominal muscles usually recover faster. Allow at least 2-4 weeks to recuperate before returning to work.

Some scarring is also normal. It often takes 9-12 months before the scars begin to fade.

Though the recovery period is longer than that of other cosmetic procedures, the rewards are great for a patient previously distressed by a protruding abdomen. Those who follow a proper exercise routine and healthy diet will benefit from abdominoplasty the most.