Many factors can lead to loose skin and stubborn fat around the abdomen, including pregnancy, significant weight fluctuations, and other factors beyond your control. While exercise and a healthy diet are wonderful for your health, they aren’t always enough to give you the slimmer, more defined midsection you desire. If you’re looking to tighten up your abdominal area and achieve a toned, youthful figure, a customized tummy tuck in Michigan performed by Dr. Ringler may be exactly what you need.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure performed to improve the shape and definition of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat. In many cases, a tummy tuck will also involve tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall. The goal of the procedure is typically to create a slimmer, more toned midsection and eliminate any loose or sagging skin and tissue. A tummy tuck is often performed on individuals who want to restore their figure after pregnancy, weight loss, or weight gain.
What is the cost of a tummy tuck in Michigan?
Every patient is unique and has their own aesthetic goals. Because your tummy tuck procedure is personalized for you, the price depends on the area or areas addressed, whether or not you’re having a complimentary procedure to enhance your results, and other factors.
You will have a consultation to determine the specifics of your custom surgical plan. Your surgical plan will include your exact price.
Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?
Reshaping disproportionate curves and reducing unwanted fat and skin cannot always be achieved through weight loss and exercise alone. Our tummy tuck can dramatically improve the shape and proportion of your upper and lower abdomen, enhancing your appearance and self-esteem.
These factors generally define ideal candidates for abdominoplasty procedures:
- Aging, heredity, pregnancy, prior surgery or weight fluctuations have left you with extra skin on your abdomen, abdominal muscle weakness, or both.
- You do not smoke. Smoking slows down the healing process and increases the risk of serious complications during and after surgery. If you smoke, you must quit at least six weeks before surgery.
- Your weight is stable. Slender individuals with extra fat and loose skin in the lower tummy are the best candidates; if you are generally obese, this procedure is not appropriate for you.
- If you have a significant amount of intra-abdominal fat surrounding your internal organs, you may need to slim down before considering a tummy tuck.
- You are physically healthy. You must be in relatively good physical shape to tolerate this procedure.
- You are finished having children. The muscles that are repaired during an abdominoplasty can separate again during future pregnancy.
- Internal or external scars from any previous abdominal surgery may also affect your candidacy.
Drainless Tummy Tuck: The procedure
What to expect
Dr. Ringler’s standard tummy tuck procedure is the drainless tummy tuck, which is typically performed as an outpatient procedure using general anesthesia. When performing his drainless tummy tuck in Grand Rapids , Dr. Ringler will use sutures to close the space between the abdominal skin and muscle tissue rather than installing drains in the abdominal cavity. As a result, any liquid from swelling will be distributed evenly throughout the abdomen, which will make it less noticeable. The drainless tummy tuck tends to make the recovery process simpler and more comfortable for patients.
Videos
Dr. Steven Ringler Discusses the Tummy Tuck Procedure
Advanced Tummy Tuck Recovery Techniques with Dr. Ringler
Different types of tummy tucks
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The progression tension suture technique
One preferred tummy tuck technique for Dr. Ringler is the progression tension suture technique. This tummy tuck technique utilizes special progression tension sutures to secure the abdominal skin to the underlying connective tissue. As a result, the tension is distributed evenly over a large area, which eliminates the space where fluid would normally accumulate after the surgery. With no space for the seroma to form, the progression tension suture technique allows Dr. Ringler to perform the surgery without the use of surgical trains.
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The Avelar tummy tuck
The Avelar tummy tuck is a tummy tuck technique originally developed in the 1990s by a Brazilian surgeon named Dr. Juarez M. Avelar. The procedure is mainly known for requiring a smaller incision than most tummy tuck methods as well as a shorter recovery period. The Avelar tummy tuck combines abdominoplasty and liposuction into one procedure for patients looking to eliminate both excess fat and excess skin. The technique prevents the abdominal fat and skin from being separated from the fascia, which ensures that the blood vessels remain intact. Like the progression tension suture technique, the Avelar tummy tuck does not require the use of surgical drains.
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The mini tummy tuck
A mini tummy tuck is a version of the tummy tuck primarily performed on patients who only have a small amount of excess abdominal skin and tissue to remove. There are several advantages of the mini tummy tuck when compared to other versions of the tummy tuck procedure:
- Smaller incision
- Less scarring
- Less invasive
- Shorter recovery downtime
- Still provides excellent results
Enhance your tummy tuck with complementary procedures
Your tummy tuck in Michigan may be performed as a stand-alone procedure or in conjunction with SafeLipo, breast augmentation, breast lift, and mommy makeover.
Tummy tuck recovery
Dr. Ringler uses SofPulse to accelerate recovery for our Grand Rapids, MI patients. SofPulse uses targeted micro-currents to transmit gentle pulses to the tissue, which can reduce swelling and speed up the natural recovery process. Recovery from abdominoplasty may take one to two weeks, but you will be up walking the day of surgery.
Patient Testimonials
“Dr. Ringler and the office staff are absolutely amazing. From the initial consultation they made me feel like part of the family. Dr. Ringler has amazing talents and made me feel fully informed of all the options presented. Expectations of final results were well explained and examples shared. The procedure day was a breeze and the hospital staff spoke highly of Dr. Ringler and the expected results as well. Follow-up care has been wonderful. My results at just two months out from surgery are absolutely life changing. I am so thankful for Dr. Ringler and the CAPS staff.”
“I love my results, Dr Ringler and staff are the best. I did my research and decided on Dr. Ringler even though I was 1 1/2 hours away, I still felt it was worth the drive to know I was in good hands and I definitely made the right choice. I am 1 year post op and I feel great. My scars are fading and looking really good. The staff were awesome too, very pleasant and helpful. This has given me self-confidence again. I can't say enough about Dr. Ringler and staff. If you are looking to have any cosmetic surgery I highly recommend Dr. Ringler.”
“I had a tummy tuck with lipo of the hips, back and thighs and I am 100% happy w/ my care & results! Dr. Ringler has amazing talent and his expectations for quality are evident from the moment you walk into his office. This quality flows through to his friendly staff and Lauren helps set accurate expectations of surgery & recovery. It was so reassuring as each day passed to remember what she said would be the normal process and how I would be feeling - she was spot on. The surgery center nurses and anesthesiologist were exceptional too. I have a history of bad anesthetic reactions and he listened with true concern and determination to be prepared to help me recover without side-effects. He succeeded and my recovery went very well for the first time in 4 surgeries (c-sections). I had minimal pain and never even had to take the narcotic that was prescribed, I did well on just ibuprofen and Tylenol. I felt safe & cared for by everyone every step of the journey. I'm now 3 weeks post-op and my tummy is flatter than it was even before kids and I believe Lauren when she says I will just continue to improve. Thank you all for the exceptional care!”
“I had been struggling with severe diastasis recti since my second child was born five years ago. It caused horrible back pain and was affecting my workouts and everyday life. I went to physical therapy for about a year and did exercises to try and improve it but nothing worked. I decided to do some research on tummy tucks to correct the issue and researched top doctors in the area. I was drawn to Dr Ringler not only because he was a top rated doctor, but he performs a drainless tummy tuck. I had my consultation and decided to go through with the procedure. I am a little over three months post op and it has been life changing. The drainless method is definitely the way to go! The healing process has actually been easy. I started going on longer walks and went back to work three weeks post op, started back jogging/ light weight training six weeks post op, now three months post op I am running, weights training and doing core exercises. Dr Ringler and his staff have been nothing but amazing from the start! I am so happy with my results this far! I have a core again and I look and feel amazing and have zero back pain! Thanks!”
“Dr. Ringler is a fabulous person and an incredible doctor. He cares about each patient and will go above and beyond to make them happy. I love his staff and everyone working there as well. I always felt safe and secure and I would never go to anyone else. Thank you for everything, Dr. Ringler!”
“I highly highly highly recommend Dr. Ringler to anyone. I could not be happier with the care I received or the results of my procedure. I suffered with a pretty severe diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles) for almost 20 years after my last pregnancy. I had been told by other surgeons there was nothing to be done and it was "just the price of motherhood." Over time, it became worse, to the point where I had to wear elastic waist pants all the time and appeared to be 4 months pregnant, even though I was a normal weight and in good shape otherwise. Thank heavens I finally found Dr. Ringler. He took the time to explain the procedure to me and answer any questions I had. I could tell from his before-and-after photos that he was a true artist, and I was not disappointed. He's so knowledgeable and experienced that he had my complete confidence going into surgery. Everything went very smoothly and I returned home that day. He personally called to check on me the next day which was so kind of him. And I appreciated that I could call the office with questions throughout the recovery period and somebody always called me right back. Even though there was swelling at first, I could see the results right away and I was so excited! Now that it's been a few months, I can clearly see my new shape and it's way beyond my wildest expectations. Clothing fits like it did before I had children and I'm just so much more comfortable. It's hard to describe what a difference it's made in my life ... worth every penny! I'd also like to mention that everyone in his office is patient, kind, and professional, and so nice to deal with. The office itself is gorgeous. Now that I'm on the other side, I realize what a major procedure this was (mostly due to the extent of the repairs I needed) and how very important it was to choose the right surgeon. Dr. Ringler was definitely the right person and I'm grateful every day I went to him.”
“I reached out to Dr. Ringler after having a previous Extended TT, MR, and FDL the previous year with less than stellar results. I really needed to be 'fixed'. Dr. Ringler kindly did a consult with me and told me he felt he could give me a good result with a circumferential TT. I was ecstatic that he was willing to take it on as I had been told by the previous PS that there was nothing more that could be done for me because of my bone structure. I waited for over a year to completely heal from my first surgery and then had my surgery with Dr. Ringler. I am now 10 days post op and my results are AMAZING! I am so thrilled with the work he did and how I look. Dr. Ringler truly is my 'Miracle Dr' and is awesome!!! I am a RN and am quite familiar with medical issues, procedures, and all, so this made it even more impressive to me. If I could, I would give him 10 stars!!! I highly recommend him to anyone wanting a tummy tuck. Thank you so much, Dr. Ringler.”
“Highly recommend Dr. Ringler. I met with him over 20 years ago after my baby was born and again about 10 years ago. I finally had the Drainless TT surgery; my only regret is waiting all those years. I couldn't be happier with my results and my care with Dr. Ringler + Staff. It truly changed my life!!”
“Dr. Ringler is truly the best! He instantly put me at ease and answered all my questions with detail and confidence. I am now three weeks post op and my results are exceeding my expectations. These excellent results could only have been achieved by Dr. Ringler. He is a master at his craft and ensuring my experience was first-class.”
“I waited for this procedure for two years and visited several doctors before settling on Dr. Ringler. His professionalism is unparalleled and his staff went above and beyond to make sure all of my questions and concerns were addressed. I am only one day out from my procedure, but I can already see my results. I felt like Dr. Ringler listened to me and didn’t pressure me to look a certain way. I would recommend Dr. Ringler in a heartbeat.”
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Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS
Contact UsWhat results can I expect from my tummy tuck?
After the abdominal muscles are tightened and loose or sagging skin is removed to create a tighter, more sculpted contour, the results of a tummy tuck are quite significant. This procedure achieves a transformative result: a trim waistline, a taut and flat abdomen, and a smooth and sculpted abdominal area. The excess, sagging skin is completely removed, and the muscles are surgically tightened with sutures. The scar is low on the abdomen, easily concealed with underwear or a bikini bottom. It will fade over time to become a thin white line.
Tummy tuck results help boost confidence and return the abdominal area to its youthful, firm, and attractively sculpted shape.
Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction
A tummy tuck and liposuction are commonly done at the same time to achieve maximum results. However, the procedures are distinct from each other and require different techniques.
During liposuction, very small incisions are made. A cannula is used to break up and suction out fat deposits from the hips, thighs, butt, or stomach. Liposuction contours and slims the physique, addressing difficult areas while preserving essential tissues.
During a tummy tuck in Michigan, a long, horizontal incision is made from hip bone to hip bone. Excess, sagging skin is removed from the lower abdomen. The muscles are tightened and strengthened with permanent sutures, small fat pockets are removed, and the upper skin is pulled down and tightly secured.
Determining the right procedure for you or whether you would benefit from a combination of both depends on your aesthetic goals and physical condition.
Why choose Dr. Ringler?
Dr. Steven L. Ringler is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is internationally recognized for his accomplishments in plastic surgery. Whether you want to completely reshape your abdomen or correct a small amount of excess flab in the area, his extensive experience and expertise in tummy tuck procedures, along with his state-of-the-art technology, can achieve what diet and exercise alone cannot.
Tummy Tuck FAQ's
Are the results of a tummy tuck permanent?
Results are long-lasting, but weight fluctuations or pregnancy can change your results. Normal aging and gravity may also affect your outcomes over time.
What will my tummy tuck scars look like?
Scars are normal after surgery and may be concealed by normal clothing and lingerie.
What should I know about abdominoplasty surgery?
- Abdominoplasty is performed on an out-patient basis.
- Abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia.
- Scars are normal after surgery and may be concealed by normal clothing and lingerie.
- Recovery from abdominoplasty may take 1-2 weeks, but you will be up and active the day of surgery.
- Dr. Ringler uses SofPulse to accelerate recovery. SofPulse uses targeted microcurrents to transmit gentle pulses to the tissue to help reduce swelling and speed up the natural recovery process.
- Results are long-lasting, but weight loss/gain or pregnancy can change your results and normal aging and gravity may affect your outcomes over time.
- You will need a capable adult with you for 24 hours after surgery.
How soon can I start exercising after a tummy tuck?
Light walking is encouraged soon after surgery. However, you should wait 6 to 8 weeks before resuming strenuous workouts or abdominal exercises—with your surgeon’s clearance.
Can men get tummy tucks too?
Yes! Tummy tucks aren’t just for women. Men who have lost weight or want to tighten their abdominal area also benefit from the procedure.
Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?
No, it's not a weight-loss procedure. It’s ideal for people close to their ideal weight who want to tighten loose skin or muscles.
Will I be in pain after abdominoplasty surgery?
Most patients experience mild to moderate pain throughout the days following surgery, but this pain can easily be managed with prescription medication. We will work with you to ensure you get what you need to ease the recovery period.
Should I wait until after I’m done having children to get a tummy tuck?
Pregnancy will stretch and alter the skin on your abdomen, so if you get a tummy tuck before having children, you may need revision surgery later. If you’re planning on waiting before having another child, it might be worth it to have the years in between look fantastic, and it’s not unheard of for women to choose this path.
Can a tummy tuck help with my stretch marks?
If you’re suffering from stretch marks from pregnancy or weight loss, a tummy tuck in Michigan can reduce or remove the appearance of the stretch marks, depending on where they are located on your abdomen. As long as you voice your goals and discuss them with our surgeon beforehand, we can often perform the surgery with stretch mark removal in mind.
Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS
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