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Plastic Surgeon
Scottsdale
Plastic Surgeon
Scottsdale
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert and Scottsdale, AZ
An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin around the abdomen to sculpt a slim, toned torso. (1)
Excess pockets of skin and stubborn body fat around the abdomen are both common and frustrating experiences for many. Major weight loss, pregnancy, previous surgeries, genetics, and the natural aging process can all create a midsection that doesn’t reflect your overall fitness. If you are experiencing any of these issues, there are treatment options available, and you could be an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck.
Led by Dr. Robert Bonillas, Scottsdale Plastics has established itself as one of Arizona’s leading body sculpting practices. Dr. Bonillas specializes in tummy tuck procedures as well as a variety of other cosmetic procedures. Anyone looking to sculpt their midsection can rest assured that they are in good hands under the care of the Scottsdale Plastics team!
To get started on your journey to the sculpted, youthful abdomen you have been working toward, schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Bonillas by contacting our office online or by calling (480) 245-6380.
Contents
Before and After Photos
About Tummy Tucks
A tummy tuck primarily sculpts the abdomen by removing loose skin and tightening separated abdominal muscles. This procedure is highly popular among patients who have experienced weight fluctuations, pregnancies, or age-related skin laxity. In recent years, this treatment has seen a substantial rise in demand due to the increasing number of patients taking GLP-1 medications, which often results in significant weight loss and, subsequently, excess skin. (2)
Types of Tummy Tucks
Dr. Bonillas offers several different types of tummy tuck procedures to fit each patient’s unique circumstances:
- Full/Traditional Tummy Tuck: Ideal for patients with extensive skin laxity and muscle separation, with a hip-to-hip incision low on the abdomen for discreet scarring.
- Mini Tummy Tuck (Partial Abdominoplasty): Usually recommended for those with minimal loose skin below the navel and no significant muscle separation, offering a potentially faster recovery with a smaller incision.
- Extended Tummy Tuck: Suited for patients needing more comprehensive correction across the hips and lower back, often after massive weight loss or pregnancy.
Benefits
Undergoing a tummy tuck can provide you with several benefits. Under Dr. Bonillas’ expert care, patients regularly see improvements through:
- Excess Skin Removal: A tummy tuck effectively eliminates loose skin, resulting in a smoother abdominal contour.
- Muscle Tightening: It tightens separated abdominal muscles, creating a firmer core.
- Improved Comfort: Removing excess skin can lead to greater physical comfort, especially for those experiencing chafing from loose skin.
- Enhanced Body Contours: Tummy tucks create an improved overall body shape, enhancing your aesthetic appearance.
- Boosted Confidence: Many patients report increased self-esteem following the procedure, leading to a more positive body image.
- Post-Pregnancy Rejuvenation: Women who have undergone significant changes after pregnancy often seek this procedure to regain their pre-pregnancy figures.
- Addressing Weight Loss Effects: Individuals who have lost substantial weight can find tummy tucks effective for removing sagging skin.
- Combination with Other Procedures: A tummy tuck can often be combined with other body contouring procedures like liposuction or a breast lift for even more dramatic changes.
If you are interested in learning more about how you can benefit from a tummy tuck, schedule a consultation online or by calling (480) 245-6380.
Ideal Candidates
Tummy tucks are highly popular in the United States, (3) and they can appeal to a wide range of potential candidates. Patients who benefit most from treatment usually:
- Have loose or sagging skin around your abdomen that hasn’t improved with exercise.
- Struggle with muscle separation after pregnancy.
- Maintain a stable, healthy weight and are committed to a healthy lifestyle post-surgery.
- Are in good overall health and a nonsmoker (or willing to quit nicotine before surgery).
- Do not plan to have any children, as pregnancy can reverse tummy tuck results.
Dr. Bonillas will establish whether or not you’re eligible for a tummy tuck during your personal consultation.
Personal Consultation
Your journey to a flatter, more sculpted abdomen begins with a comprehensive personal consultation. Dr. Bonillas will take this time to understand your goals, review your medical history, and perform a physical examination of your abdomen. He’ll explain your surgical options and recommend the most suitable approach, whether it is a full, mini, or extended tummy tuck.
This consultation also offers an opportunity to ask questions about preparation, the surgical process, recovery expectations, and associated costs. Dr. Bonillas and his team are committed to making sure you feel fully informed and confident moving forward. Once Dr. Bonillas has obtained the necessary information, he will create a personalized treatment plan that is tailored uniquely toward your anatomy and goals.
To schedule your consultation, contact our office online or call (480) 245-6380.
Preparation
Dr. Bonillas will provide a customized list of preoperative instructions to prepare you for a successful surgery and recovery. Preparation may involve:
- Stopping smoking and nicotine use.
- Avoiding certain medications and supplements with blood-thinning properties.
- Arranging for someone to drive you home after surgery.
- Setting up a comfortable recovery space at home.
Adhering closely to Dr. Bonillas’ guidelines is a vital part of ensuring a successful tummy tuck treatment and recovery process.
Procedure
The details of each tummy tuck will differ depending on the patient and their unique anatomy, but all tummy tucks follow a series of uniform steps. To begin your tummy tuck, general anesthesia will be administered. Following this, Dr. Bonillas will make precise incisions around the abdomen. The incision is typically placed low enough to be concealed by underwear or swimwear. He will then remove excess skin and fat, repair separated abdominal muscles, and carefully redrape the remaining skin for a tight, natural look.
If needed, Dr. Bonillas might incorporate liposuction to enhance contouring results, especially if significant fat is present. Dr. Bonillas also gives special attention to ensure an aesthetically pleasing belly button placement. Procedure times will vary from patient to patient depending on the technique and the extent of correction needed, but you can expect the entire process to last somewhere between 2 to 5 hours.
Recovery
Recovery after a tummy tuck requires commitment to postoperative care, and Dr. Bonillas will provide you with detailed guidelines for navigating this process. While you will likely be up and walking the same day, full recovery can take several weeks. Most patients return to light activities within 2-3 weeks, though returning to strenuous workouts and activities can take 6-8 weeks with Dr. Bonillas’ approval.
Dr. Bonillas will likely have you wear a compression garment for a designated period following your procedure to reduce swelling and protect your new contours. Minor bruising, tightness, and swelling are normal for many patients and will gradually subside. You are encouraged to schedule follow-up appointments with Dr. Bonillas to allow him to track your progress and ensure your results match your goals.
Results
You will notice some initial improvements in the form of a flatter abdomen almost immediately after your procedure, though final results will continue to emerge over time as swelling diminishes over the next several months. Most patients enjoy a flatter abdomen with improved core appearance and a noticeable boost in body confidence.
Dr. Bonillas’ extensive experience and advanced surgical skills have led countless patients to be happy and excited about their tummy tuck results. It is important to maintain a stable weight and practice healthy eating and exercise to ensure your results last.
Corresponding Procedures
Many patients choose to combine their tummy tuck with other procedures for enhanced body rejuvenation. Common additions include thigh lifts, arm lifts, and various breast enhancement treatments.
Cost of Tummy Tucks in Scottsdale
Because tummy tuck procedures are highly individualized for each patient and are sometimes performed in conjunction with additional procedures, the cost of each tummy tuck at Scottsdale Plastics is subject to vary. Dr. Bonillas will provide you with a detailed cost estimate once your treatment plan is established. Scottsdale Plastics also offers financing options to qualifying patients.
Schedule your consultation today to begin planning your tummy tuck. If you have any questions, please call our office at (480) 245-6380.
FAQ
How long does a tummy tuck take?
Typically, a tummy tuck takes between 2 to 5 hours, depending on the complexity and whether additional procedures—such as liposuction—are incorporated.
Will a tummy tuck leave visible scars?
While a tummy tuck will result in scarring, Dr. Bonillas places incisions carefully to ensure that scars are discreet and can be hidden by clothing. Scars also fade significantly over time.
When can I return to work after my tummy tuck?
Most patients return to light, desk-based work within two to three weeks, but it depends on your healing pace and job demands.
Are tummy tuck results permanent?
Results can be long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight gain or pregnancy can alter results.
References
- Regan JP, Casaubon JT. Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck). PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431058/
- Toms JA, O’Neill E, Wiegmann AL, Adepoju J, Raj MS. Prevalence Patterns of Body Contouring Procedures Among Injectable Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonist Users. Aesthetic surgery journal. Published online April 15, 2024. doi:https://doi.org/10.1093/asj/sjae085
- ASPS. American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner.; 2023. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2023/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2023.pdf