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Abdominoplasty

Get the Figure You Desire with Tummy Tuck Surgery

Doctor Certifications

Dr. Angelchik was certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) in 1996 and successfully completed a rigorous recertification process in 2006 and 2016. He participates in the Maintenance of Certification program through the ABPS. He is a member in good standing of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. He has also been named to Castle & Connolly’s Top Doctors in America every year since 1996.

Dr. Paul Angelchik is a Phoenix plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Angelchik is well-trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, namely breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation. He has been serving patients for over 20 years. Dr. Angelchik brings his surgical experience, expertise, and quality care to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona.

The tummy tuck is a common surgery for men and women in the Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ area who are seeking a more toned abdomen. Exercise and diet can only take your body so far. This is where a body contouring procedure, like an abdominoplasty, can help you reach your ideal body goals.


What is Abdominoplasty?


Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as tummy tuck surgery, is a surgical procedure that aims to reshape and rejuvenate the abdominal area through the removal of fat and skin, as well as tightening loose and stretched muscles. This can have both medical and cosmetic benefits and is commonly combined with liposuction techniques for additional lower body contouring.

Who is a Candidate for Abdominoplasty in Phoenix?


The best tummy tuck candidates in the Scottsdale, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ area have loose, drooping skin in the midsection. While some fat tissue can be removed, the tummy tuck procedure is not itself a substitute for weight loss. A tummy tuck/abdominoplasty can address issues such as:

  • Loose skin
  • Sagging skin
  • Excess fat
  • Unattractive protrusions
  • Poorly defined stomach muscles
  • Stretch marks

The major focus for the tummy tuck is stretched skin in the abdomen. Pregnancy, aging, and major weight loss can all stretch the skin of the abdomen beyond its ability to re-contract. This is where a tummy tuck can make a dramatic difference for people whose appearance can’t be improved with weight loss efforts.

The best tummy tuck candidates know what they want from the procedure and have realistic expectations. While board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Angelchik evaluates each case on its own merits, some common considerations include the following.

  • Are you in good overall health?
  • Can your body recover from the procedure without elevated risks of complications?
  • Are your expectations concrete and realistic? A tummy tuck can deliver outstanding results, but you need to understand what is and is not possible with this surgical procedure.
  • Are you close to your ideal weight? The best candidates for a tummy tuck have achieved a healthy weight through diet and exercise. If you expect to gain or lose weight after your procedure, your results are likely to change.

Dr. Angelchik's surgical skills are top notch. I am 4 wks out from surgery and my results are awesome. I feel great and look great! Read More >

What are My Options for Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale, AZ?


There are several forms of abdominoplasty procedures. The type of tummy tuck that is right for you will depend on your health and desired results. After your initial consultation, Dr. Angelchik will recommend one of these variations in your personalized tummy tuck treatment plan.

Standard Tummy Tuck

The standard tummy tuck, also called a full tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from your abdomen. This original variation tightens lax abdominal muscles within the abdominal wall. During surgery, Dr. Angelchik will also remove extra fat tissue. Tummy tucks are best for men and women who have tried diet and exercise but have difficulty reaching their ideal goal.

A standard abdominoplasty addresses a larger area than the mini-tummy tuck, but it usually requires a longer recovery period and may feature more scarring than the miniature version. This procedure uses a hipbone-to-hipbone abdominal incision that can contour the skin, muscle, and tissue as needed. This procedure can involve moving your belly button, which may lengthen the recovery process.

Mini Tummy Tuck

The mini tummy tuck is sometimes referred to as the Brazilian tummy tuck. It focuses on fat tissue and surplus skin located under your navel. This procedure does not require moving your belly button and can be completed in one or two hours, depending on your individual health.

The mini abdominoplasty can be used to eliminate small rolls of displaced muscle, fat, and skin. It tightens your abdominal wall and muscles, but on a smaller scale than the traditional abdominoplasty. This procedure is the least invasive tummy tuck option and often produces a less noticeable scar. This scar is located around your bikini line and can easily be concealed. The mini tummy tuck is good for those who have stubborn fatty areas along their lower abdomen.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended abdominoplasty, or corset tummy tuck, still surgically firms underlying abdominal muscles, but is more invasive. Your sides and flanks will also be strengthened. The flanks are often referred to as “love handles.” Love handles are one of the hardest areas of the body to correct with just diet and exercise. The extended tummy tuck covers the entire abdomen and surrounding areas.

Saldanha Lipoabdominoplasty

Dr. Angelchik is the only tummy tuck surgeon who performs the Saldanha Lipoabdominoplasty in the Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ area. This extensive plastic surgery procedure was first developed by Dr. Osvaldo Saldanha. Lipoabdominoplasty involves both liposuction and abdominoplasty. This combination gives you the maximum amount of body sculpting.

The Saldanha method has shown to be more successful because it maintains more than triple the percentage of blood flow in the skin than the traditional combination. Post-surgery complications are less common and there is a lower probability of severe pain, bruising, and swelling in patients. The Saldanha Lipoabdominoplasty is popular among men and women because of the aggressive body sculpting and muscle contouring involved.

How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?


A typical tummy tuck can be performed on an outpatient basis. For any type of outpatient procedure, you should arrange for someone who can drive you to and from surgery and be available to stay with you on the first night after your procedure. A tummy tuck generally requires general anesthesia, and a predetermined incision is then made. Dr. Angelchik can then access the underlying tissues of the stomach, allowing for the removal of fatty deposits and excess skin. The abdominal wall muscles can be tightened using absorbable sutures, and liposuction can be performed on the surrounding areas before closing the incisions.

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How Much Time is Needed to Recover after Abdominoplasty?

There are a number of factors which will determine how long your recovery will be after abdominoplasty. These include your general health at the time of surgery, they extensiveness of your abdominoplasty, and how well you follow Dr. Angelchik’s post-operative instructions. In general, it is common for your recovery to take anywhere from two to four […]

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Liposuction or Tummy Tuck- Which One is Right for Me?

It’s natural for fat to accumulate around the abdominal area, no matter what body type you may have. When this stubborn fat won’t go away with regular diet and exercise, there are other options. At Paul Angelchik, MD, we offer liposuction and  tummy tuck procedures that help to get rid of unwanted, excess fat. The […]

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Types of Tummy Tucks (Abdominoplasty)

An abdominoplasty can be a valuable procedure for patients who have loose skin above the navel after pregnancy or significant weight loss. Often, over-relaxed or stretched abdominal muscles contribute to the skin’s loose appearance. This is especially common after multiple pregnancies. During a tummy tuck, your excess skin will be removed, and the connective tissue that covers […]

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Abdominoplasty Recovery and Results


Your hospital stay will depend on the extent of your surgery. If you’ve undergone a mini tummy tuck, you may be able to leave the hospital on the same day. Major forms of abdominoplasty will require a hospital stay of 1-2 nights to ensure you begin healing correctly. You will most likely feel groggy from the general anesthesia.

Tummy tuck recovery time varies from patient to patient based on factors like age, health, and the extent of the procedure. Dr. Angelchik will advise you on exactly what to expect following your procedure, but common next steps include:

  • Prescription medication to alleviate discomfort, muscle relaxants, and possibly an antibiotic to prevent infection
  • The insertion of a small tube beneath the skin to drain excess fluid
  • Dressing the treatment area with bandages. Wearing a tight post-operative garment will help the skin adjust to its new, leaner shape.
  • Sutures could be used to close the incisions. These will be removed one to two weeks after the procedure.

You’ll be sent home with drains in place to reduce the buildup of fluid within the treated area. There will be significant bruising and swelling for at least ten days. Residual bruising could last for several months. Tummy tucks come with risks like all forms of surgery, but many of these complications can be avoided by following your aftercare instructions. You’ll also wear a tight-fitting garment for about two weeks, which holds your skin, muscle, and other tissues in place while they heal.

About two weeks total is needed for recovery from a standard tummy tuck procedure. You can plan to return to work within about 7-10 days if you have a sedentary desk job, or about 14 days if your job requires physical activity. Dr. Angelchik will create a specific recovery plan for you to ensure that you get back on your feet as quickly as possible while also allowing sufficient time for your body to heal. Strenuous activities like exercise and heavy lifting will require a longer recovery time of up to six weeks. Dr. Angelchik will clear you for these more strenuous activities during your follow-up appointments.

Schedule a Consultation


A tummy tuck in the Phoenix, Mesa, and Glendale, AZ area can be one of the best ways to repair and rejuvenate your abdominal area after pregnancy or weight loss. To discuss your tummy tuck options, including tummy tuck cost, with Dr. Angelchik, contact our Glendale office by calling or filling out our online form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are tummy tucks dangerous?

Tummy tucks are generally safe, but like all surgeries, there are risks including adverse reactions to anesthesia, surgical infections, blood clots, or bleeding. For healthy patients, these risks are low. Dr. Angelchik will carefully evaluate your general health to determine whether a tummy tuck will be safe for you.

Can you get pregnant after tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck will not affect your ability to get pregnant. However, it is advisable to wait until you are done having children before choosing a tummy tuck, as future pregnancies can jeopardize your results.

Can a tummy tuck cause stomach issues?

After your tummy tuck, you are likely to experience swelling and may feel some muscle tightness during the recovery period. These issues are temporary side effects of the surgery.

Can you lose weight after tummy tuck?

You may lose about 2-5 pounds through a tummy tuck due to the removal of excess skin and other tissue. However, a tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure, and you should be at a healthy and stable weight before choosing the surgery.

Can I walk after tummy tuck?

After your tummy tuck, its important to walk several times a day for 5-10 minutes to prevent blood clots or other issues. During the first few days of recovery, you should have some assistance walking and move slowly and gently.

Do men get tummy tuck?

Men do get tummy tucks. In particular, men choose tummy tucks to remove excess skin in the abdominal area after losing a significant amount of weight.

Can you get a tummy tuck if youre obese?

Tummy tuck patients should be at a healthy weight and within 20-30 pounds at most of their goal weight. If you are obese, it is not advisable for you to get a tummy tuck.

Do tummy tucks work?

Tummy tucks are an effective way to remove excess skin and fat and repair the abdominal muscles. The tummy tuck procedure works to create a flatter, more toned abdominal area.

Do you get a scar from a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks result in a horizontal scar from hip to hip low across the abdominal region. This scar can be easily concealed under most underwear or swimsuits.

How can I lose my stomach fat?

For some patients, following a healthy, balanced diet and sticking to an exercise routine are not enough to lose stubborn stomach fat. This is especially true as we age. A tummy tuck or liposuction can help permanently remove these fat deposits as long as healthy lifestyle habits are also put into place.

Do you have to be skinny to get a tummy tuck?

You should be at or near a healthy and stable weight to get a tummy tuck. So long as you are near a healthy weight, your overall body shape or body type should not prevent you from getting a tummy tuck.

How dangerous is a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks are generally safe. Complications can occur as with any type of surgery, but serious complications are uncommon.

Does a tummy tuck tighten muscles?

During a tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon tightens the abdominal muscles by suturing damaged or separated muscles together.

How do I prepare for a tummy tuck?

Before your tummy tuck surgery, Dr. Angelchik may ask you to have medical evaluations or lab tests performed. You should also quit smoking if you smoke and avoid taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin. Finally, arrange for someone to drive you home from the surgery.

How are tummy tucks done?

Tummy tucks are performed by making a horizontal incision low across the abdomen, through which excess skin can be removed and tightened. The abdominal muscles are also tightened or repaired using sutures, and excess fat is removed using liposuction.

How early does your stomach get hard when pregnant?

The stomach may tighten as early as the first trimester during pregnancy. However, this is most common during the second trimester.

How long after a tummy tuck can you drink?

You should avoid alcoholic drinks after your surgery while on antibiotics and/or pain medication and muscle relaxants. Do not drink if you are currently taking prescription pain pills.

How long is pain after tummy tuck?

For most tummy tuck patients, pain improves about a week after their surgery. Most patients feel well enough to return to work or other routines about two weeks after their tummy tuck.

How long do tummy tucks last?

The tummy tuck procedure typically takes about 2-3 hours hours to complete.

How long will a tummy tuck last?

Tummy tuck results should be permanent. However, if you gain a significant amount of weight or become pregnant after your tummy tuck, this can disrupt your results.

How long do you wear a binder after surgery?

Dr. Angelchik will give you specific instructions regarding your postoperative instructions. Dr. Angelchik does not recommend abdominal binders after tummy tuck surgery.

How many pounds can you lose with liposuction?

Liposuction typically results in about one to ten pounds of fat loss in a single procedure. However, weight loss is not the primary goal of a tummy tuck procedure.

How long does it take to lose weight after a tummy tuck?

Weight loss is not the primary goal of a tummy tuck. However, you will notice a slimmer profile and flatter abdominal region about two weeks after the surgery, when a majority of swelling has subsided.

How many sizes do you lose with a tummy tuck?

On average, women lose about two to three dress sizes after a tummy tuck, and men lose several pant sizes.

How much does it cost for a tummy tuck?

The average cost of a tummy tuck nation-wide is about $6,000. The final cost of your tummy tuck will vary depending on the extent of your surgery, your surgeons expertise, and the geographic location where your tummy tuck is performed.

What are the side effects of a tummy tuck?

Common side effects after a tummy tuck include soreness, redness, and swelling. You may also experience some bruising.

How much weight can you lose having a tummy tuck?

A majority of tummy tuck patients lose about 2-5 pounds through the surgery. However, weight loss isnt the goal of a tummy tuck, as it is considered a body contouring surgery.

What do you eat after tummy tuck?

After your tummy tuck, you should prioritize healthy, nutritious meals that include protein and vitamins A, C, arnica, bromelain, and zinc. Its best to avoid salty foods, carbonated drinks, and alcohol.

How painful is a tummy tuck?

You will have some discomfort after a tummy tuck, but this can be alleviated through pain medication, the use of Exparel ( a long lasting local anesthetic) or a pain pump, and muscle relaxants.

What does a tummy tuck usually cost?

The average surgeon’s fee is about $6,000 nationally. Dr. Angelchik will give you a more specific cost estimate applicable to your case after your consultation.

Is it easier to lose weight after a tummy tuck?

For many patients, removing excess skin during a tummy tuck makes exercise easier. This can make it easier to lose weight after the surgery.

What is the best girdle to wear after a tummy tuck?

After your tummy tuck, Dr. Angelchik does not use binders or girdles immediately after surgery, as there is some evidence this may result in a greater risk of deep venous thrombosis ( blood clots), which can be dangerous.

What qualifies you for a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck candidates are in good overall health, at or near a healthy and stable weight, and have loose, excess skin, stubborn fat, and damaged or separated abdominal muscles.

Why would you need a tummy tuck?

Most patients choose a tummy tuck because they have loose skin and are unable to achieve a flat, slim, or toned abdominal region through diet and exercise alone.

When can I start working out after tummy tuck?

For most patients, its advisable to wait about 5-6 weeks after your tummy tuck before resuming your exercise routine. Prior to this time, you should still regularly walk to stay healthy.

Will a tummy tuck make my stomach flat?

Tummy tucks are performed to achieve a flatter, toned stomach.

When can I wear regular clothes after tummy tuck?

You will have some garment restrictions for about six weeks after your tummy tuck. For example, Dr. Angelchik may ask you to avoid wearing tight underwear, pants or jeans until adequate healing of your incision has taken place. After six weeks, you can wear whatever clothes you like.

Who is a good candidate for tummy tuck?

Good candidates for a tummy tuck are generally healthy overall, nonsmokers, and near an ideal, healthy, and stable weight.

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The Angelchik Difference

Learn more about our philosophy and follow the patient journey to see what
makes us different and what to expect before, during and after your procedure.

  • Surgeon Consultation

    All patient consultations are conducted with Board Certified surgeon Dr. Angelchik and full medical history is discussed.

  • Custom Procedure

    Recommendations are based on the patient's expressed interests, health history and physical examination.

  • Personalized Experience

    Our staff offers a personalized experience for each patient with an educational and reassuring environment.

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Contact Us

If you're interested, please contact us today at 602-375-8888 to schedule your consultation. Our office provides excellent plastic surgery to clients in the Glendale, Phoenix, Tempe, Scottsdale, Mesa, Surprise and Peoria areas of Arizona.

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