UTAH TUMMY TUCK

Before and after photos / mini tummy tuck video / full tummy tuck video

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A tummy tuck removes stretch marks, tightens and flattens the abdomen.  Dr. Yates serves the Salt Lake City, Utah area.

Abdominal stretching associated with childbirth and weight fluctuations can cause loose skin, stretch marks and separation of abdominal muscles (diastasis). Tummy tuck (Abdominoplasty) removes excess abdominal skin, while tightening and flattening the abdomen. This is performed using a “bikini line” incision in the lower abdomen. The abdominal muscles are tightened as indicated. Depending upon the degree and location of skin excess and stretch marks the patient may benefit from a full abdominoplasty or mini-abdominoplasty.

How do I know if I need a full abdominoplasty or mini-abdominoplasty?

At the time of your consultation, Dr. Yates will help you determine which would be best for you.

Generally, a mini-tummy tuck improves the lower abdomen whereas a full tummy tuck improves the entire abdomen. A “new” belly button is created with a full tummy tuck, whereas the original belly button remains after a mini-tummy tuck. Dr Yates pays extra attention to the belly button as both he and his patients find this is very important.

More skin and stretch marks are removed with a full tummy tuck.  In general the skin from the pubic area to above the belly button is removed.

Where is a tummy tuck performed?

Like most cosmetic surgeries, tummy tuck can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation in the clinic operating room or under general anesthesia in the hospital or at a surgical center.  Dr. Yates requires the patient to be of good health and near their ideal body weight to be a candidate for a full abdominoplasty in the office operating room.  Dr. Yates operates only in fully accredited facilities.

What should I expect after a tummy tuck?

A dressing is applied and drains will remain for about a week. After a full tummy tuck you will remain in a flexed position at the waist for a week to limit tension on the suture line. Pain medications are used as necessary for the first several days. Lifting is limited and a supportive garment (which is supplied) is used for 6 weeks.

You will notice quite a difference early after your tummy tuck although some swelling will be present for up to one year. The tummy tuck scar will fade over the first year.  Unless you lose or gain a significant amount of weight, the results should last a long time.

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Should I wait to have a tummy tuck until I am done having children?

Generally yes. Some of the benefits of a tummy tuck can be lost with the stretching of the abdomen associated with pregnancy.  Often a tummy tuck is adressed at the time of a mommy makeover.

What risks are associated with a tummy tuck?

Dr Yates will thoroughly discuss the rare but potential risks at the time of your consultation. The risk of poor healing is much higher in smokers and patients with large upper abdominal scars from previous surgery. Dr Yates requires patients to refrain from smoking for 6 weeks in preparation for surgery.  Dr Yates is quite experienced with abdominoplasty surgery, providing service to the Salt Lake City Utah metro area.

How do I schedule a consultation or schedule surgery?

Contact Dr. Yates Layton, Utah office or feel free to email him any additional questions you may have.