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Fenner Plastic Surgery | Kenilworth, IL
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What Is A Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tighten the underlying muscles for a firmer, flatter midsection. It is commonly sought by individuals after significant weight loss or pregnancy to improve body contour. A tummy tuck can also address weakened or separated abdominal muscles for better core support.

The benefits

A tummy tuck in Chicago can transform your figure and deliver the stomach you’ve been unable to achieve through diet and exercise alone. When performed by a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Geoffrey Fenner, the procedure has the power to:

  • Tighten loose abdominal muscles
  • Trim away excess skin on the stomach
  • Remove unwanted fatty deposits and love handles
  • Minimize the appearance of stretch marks
Woman who recieved a tummy tuck on the beach

A personalized tummy tuck experience

In an effort to provide the best tummy tuck experience available, Dr. Fenner offers a variety of customizable procedures. His extensive preoperative consultation with each of his tummy tuck patients in North Shore and Chicago helps him better understand his or her goals while creating a customized treatment plan that may include a mini tummy tuck or a modified abdominoplasty, depending on the patient's current health and body contours.

The procedure: What to expect

Your tummy tuck will be done under general anesthesia to ensure a comfortable and safe surgical experience. During the procedure, Dr. Fenner will remove unwanted fat, trim away excess skin, and tighten lax muscles. Depending on your needs and anatomy, he will utilize one of the following approaches:

Traditional tummy tuck

The traditional tummy tuck requires an incision that extends from hip to hip, along with a cut around the navel. The procedure allows Dr. Fenner to tighten and reshape the entire abdominal area and reposition the belly button, if needed.

Mini tummy tuck

The mini version of this procedure is the best tummy tuck for Kenilworth, IL men and women who are close to their ideal body weight and exclusively want to address excess flab beneath the belly button. Because this approach targets a limited area, it is associated with a quicker recovery period.

Extended tummy tuck

The extended tummy tuck is ideal for North Shore men and women who want to address the stomach area and love handles. The incision extends behind the hips and offers a comprehensive transformation.

Once unwanted fat and excess skin have been removed, Dr. Fenner will often reposition the navel as well. This involves an additional incision along the central abdomen to detach and reattach the belly button. It is important for patients to understand that navel reattachment is a delicate art form and requires an experienced plastic surgeon to ensure natural results. The length of your procedure will depend on the type of tummy tuck you’re having done. While a mini tummy tuck can take 90 minutes to complete, the extended version of the surgery can take a few hours. Once your abdomen has been completely rejuvenated, Dr. Fenner will close the incisions carefully to minimize scarring.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck in Chicago?

A tummy tuck can be a transformative procedure for individuals seeking to restore a smoother, firmer abdominal contour—especially after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging have left behind loose skin or weakened muscles. But how do you know if it’s right for you? You may be a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery with Dr. Geoffrey Fenner if you:

  • Struggle with excess abdominal skin or sagging that does not improve with diet or exercise
  • Have weakened or separated abdominal muscles (often after pregnancy)
  • Are in overall good health, without conditions that could impair healing
  • Are a non-smoker, or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
Successful Tummy tuck patient in bikini
Fenner Plastic Surgery

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Refining your tummy tuck results

Some of Dr. Fenner’s patients choose to undergo their tummy tuck procedure in combination with liposuction for enhanced, more sculpted body contouring results. This dual approach allows for the removal of excess skin and tightening of abdominal muscles, while also addressing stubborn pockets of fat—delivering smoother, firmer, and more defined contours.

In addition to liposuction, Dr. Fenner offers comprehensive body contouring procedures to help patients achieve their ideal physique. He is able to perform a full range of aesthetic treatments for the face and breast, tailoring each plan to the unique needs and goals of every individual. If you're exploring options for a tummy tuck in North Shore or surrounding areas, Dr. Fenner offers trusted, natural-looking results.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck in Chicago Cost?

Tummy tuck pricing is based on the individual’s cosmetic goals and needs. The extent of the work performed, the techniques used, and the addition of any auxiliary procedures such as liposuction or a mommy makeover will affect the overall costs. Fees may include the surgeon’s fees, facility fees, anesthesia fees, and postoperative garment fees, among others. At the time of your private consultation, you’ll receive a detailed quote for services based on your physical evaluation and a frank discussion of your cosmetic objectives.

Why Choose Dr. Geoffrey Fenner?

Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Geoffrey Fenner, performs a variety of body contouring procedures to help his patients achieve their desired body shape. In addition to liposuction, he regularly performs tummy tucks to tighten weak abdominal muscles, remove unwanted fatty deposits, and trim away loose, sagging skin in the stomach area.

Patients seeking a tummy tuck in Kenilworth trust Dr. Fenner for his precision, artistry, and commitment to personalized care. Countless patients from Chicago and the North Shore have visited our state-of-the-art facility to undergo their tummy tuck procedure with Dr. Fenner. With a combination of compassionate patient care, a keen aesthetic eye, and unrivaled surgical skill, Dr. Fenner consistently produces extremely natural results for his tummy tuck patients.

Fenner Plastic Surgery

I begin my journey with Dr. Fenner and his team At the beginning of May, for a tummy tuck. I was immediately impressed by everyone. There was no question that was off-limits. They never rushed me I was very nervous I told them this and they explained every detail answering my questions in every way that I asked it. My surgery date was June 16 it went extremely well from the minute I checked in I was made to feel like I was the most important person in the office. Now five weeks postop I can tell you that with every follow up visit you could absolutely see the progression. He is amazing.

I love Dr. Fenner and his staff! He did my prophylactic bilateral mastectomy tram flap with a tummy tuck and it turned out amazing! I have continued on with multiple services in the office for 13 years. And the med spa is amazing!

I am very grateful to Dr. Fenner for his excellent work. I did a lower face lift, breast lift and tummy tuck. Dr. Fenner gave me back my youth, his work is amazing, the clinic staff is very pleasant, if there are any questions, everything is resolved very quickly, care is felt towards the clients of the clinic. The best doctor. I recommend it to anyone who wants to get a high quality result.

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Tummy Tuck FAQs

How long is the recovery after a tummy tuck?

Recovery typically takes two to six weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and your individual healing process. Patients can usually return to light activities after 1–2 weeks but should avoid strenuous exercise for at least 4–6 weeks. Dr. Fenner provides personalized aftercare instructions to ensure a smooth recovery

Will there be scarring after a tummy tuck?

Yes, a tummy tuck does involve scarring; however, Dr. Fenner places incisions low on the abdomen, typically below the bikini line, to make them as discreet as possible. Over time, the scars fade and can be further minimized with proper care and optional treatments.

Can a tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?

Absolutely. Many patients choose to combine a tummy tuck with liposuction, breast augmentation, or other body contouring procedures for a more comprehensive transformation. This is commonly referred to as a Mommy Makeover. Dr. Fenner can help you decide the best combination based on your goals.

What happens if I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

While a tummy tuck doesn’t affect your ability to get pregnant, it’s best to wait until after completing your family to undergo the procedure. Pregnancy can re-stretch the abdominal muscles and skin, potentially reversing some of your results.

How long do tummy tuck results last?

Results from a tummy tuck are long-lasting, especially when maintained with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While your body will continue to age naturally, most patients enjoy a flatter, more contoured abdomen for many years after surgery.

Are drains used after surgery, and if so, for how long?

Yes, surgical drains are commonly used to prevent fluid buildup during the initial recovery phase. Dr. Fenner will give you detailed instructions for caring for your drains and typically removes them within 1–2 weeks, depending on your healing progress.

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