Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a popular procedure for individuals looking to restore a firmer, flatter abdomen and enhance their body confidence.
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a popular procedure for individuals looking to restore a firmer, flatter abdomen and enhance their body confidence. Whether due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or aging, the abdominal area can develop excess skin, stubborn fat, and weakened muscles that are difficult to address through diet and exercise alone. At Plastic Surgical Associates in Fort Collins, CO, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Diane Duncan specializes in tummy tuck procedures tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Serving clients across Northern Colorado, including Loveland, Windsor, and Greeley, Dr. Duncan helps patients achieve a smoother, more toned midsection, empowering them to feel more confident and comfortable in their bodies.
This 38 year old mom lost 40 pounds with diet and exercise, but she was not able to correct the skin excess and muscle diastasis by herself.
"THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! (and all of your staff) for taking such great care of me and the wonderful job you did on my tummy tuck! It is something I had wanted to have done for a long, long time. Although I am still healing, it has already made a HUGE difference in the way I feel overall, and in my self-esteem. My low back used to hurt and whenever I would run, that extra skin would “bounce”. Now I feel I can do so much more!”
– September ’17 patient
When it comes to your aesthetic journey, choosing the right provider makes all the difference. Plastic Surgical Associates is dedicated to meeting your unique needs, whether you're seeking minor or major aesthetic transformations, addressing specific health concerns, or looking to enhance your overall well-being. Our Fort Collins plastic surgery center offers tailored solutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your care. Experience personalized services that align with your individual goals and contribute to a more vibrant and fulfilling lifestyle.
Copyright 2016 Dr. Diane Duncan
The diagrams below show the position of the youthful abdominal rectus muscle, left, and the damaged muscle following childbirth, age, or weight loss (right).
Because there is no central muscle tone anymore, the stomach and intestines are allow to bulge out. While this is not a true hernia—insurance will not pay for the repair—the midsection protrusion that troubles many moms can only be repaired with a tummy tuck. Simple liposuction will leave the problem uncorrected.
Left: 41 year old after having children, going to the gym without improvement.
Right: Patient six weeks after abdominoplasty and liposuction of the flanks by Dr. Duncan. The incision is quite narrow and turns white over time.
I have skin that hangs over my C-section scar. I think losing more weight will only make this worse. Am I right?
You are most likely right. Stretched out skin will only contract slightly after pregnancy or weight loss. We have a non-excisional solution for mild to moderate skin excess, when you need less than a 33% contraction (see RF assisted abdominal contouring). However, if you have pendulous skin that hangs over a scar or in a swimsuit, you are like to need a tummy tuck.
Left: 30 year old following childbirth. Right: 12 years after tummy tuck by Dr. Duncan.
The patient below had a tummy tuck by Dr. Duncan at age 30. She returned 12 years later for another concern. She maintained her results by following a careful diet and going to the gym 4 times a week.
Copyright 2016 Dr. Diane Duncan
Many of our patients have an intolerance to codeine based pain medication. We have several alternatives including Tramadol, muscle relaxants, and Meloxicam. About 25% of our patients need no pain medication if the pain pump is used.
Dr. Duncan uses a pain pump, filled with long acting local anesthetic, in addition to giving you a prescription for pain medication. This lasts for four days. Usually patients do not need pain medication other than Tylenol past this point.
The pain pump slowly drives the liquid medication through two IV-like catheters that are inserted just below the rib cage. These small tubes are removed on day 4. There is a drain in the lower abdomen that Dr. Duncan will take out about one week postop.
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