Tummy Tuck
Serving Fayetteville, Rogers, Springdale, Bentonville, and the Northwest Arkansas area
Serving Fayetteville, Rogers, Springdale, Bentonville, and the Northwest Arkansas area
Even with a dedicated diet and exercise, some body changes simply won’t reverse on their own. After pregnancy, significant weight loss, or bariatric surgery, many people are left with stretched abdominal muscles, loose skin, or stubborn fat deposits around the midsection.
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is designed to restore strength and contour to the core. This procedure removes excess skin and fat, repairs separated abdominal muscles, and creates a smoother, flatter abdomen. With over two decades of experience, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Spann tailors every tummy tuck to your individual needs—whether as a single procedure or part of a larger transformation.
Removes excess fat and extra skin for a leaner shape
Reconnects and tightens separated abdominal muscles
Performed under general anesthesia in our private AAAASF-accredited OR
Return to light activity in about two weeks
Maintain your refined contours with a stable weight and healthy lifestyle
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A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the abdominal area by removing excess skin, tightening the ab muscles, and eliminating stubborn fatty tissue. It’s often chosen by patients who’ve experienced changes from pregnancy, past weight gain, or the natural aging process and want to regain a more toned midsection.
Depending on your needs, Dr. Spann may recommend a mini tummy tuck, a complete abdominoplasty, or an extended tummy tuck. Each option is customized to address the areas you’re most concerned about, whether that’s the lower abdomen, upper abdomen, or both.
Mini tummy tuck – A mini tummy tuck targets only the lower abdomen below the belly button and is ideal for removing a small amount of loose skin or tightening minor muscle separation.
Full tummy tuck – A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal area, removing excess skin and repairing separated muscles both above and below the belly button.
Extended tummy tuck – An extended tummy tuck removes loose skin and fat from the abdomen, flanks, and lower back, offering more comprehensive contouring for patients with significant skin laxity. Specialized techniques include high lateral tension abdominoplasty for the most natural-looking results.
Many patients benefit from pairing a tummy tuck with other procedures for more complete results:
Your experience begins with a tummy tuck consultation, where Dr. Spann will learn about your goals and review your medical history. He'll work with you to determine the best tummy tuck approach, whether that’s mini abdominoplasty, full abdominoplasty, or extended abdominoplasty. He will educate you fully about your options to help you make informed decisions about your care.
Tummy tuck surgery is an outpatient procedure performed with general anesthesia. The incision site is typically below the bikini line and just above the pubic hair line. Through this incision, Dr. Spann removes excess fat and skin, tightens muscles of the abdominal wall, and repositions the belly button if needed. Liposuction may also be used to remove excess fat. Dr. Spann is known for his proven surgical techniques and recovery protocols that prioritize your safety, comfort, and the best possible outcome.
For patients who have undergone bariatric surgery or significant weight loss, Dr. Spann also specializes in extended contouring options to address loose skin across multiple areas of the body. Procedures may include:
These surgeries can be performed alone or in stages, depending on your goals and overall health, to help you complete your transformation.
A tummy tuck can significantly improve both cosmetic and functional concerns, including:
A tummy tuck is a great option for patients who have done the hard work to lose weight and now want to complete their transformation in a safe, thoughtful way.
The true benefit of tummy tuck surgery isn’t just in how you look. It’s in how you feel. Many patients find a renewed sense of strength, ease, and confidence in their daily movement.
Benefits include:
You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you’re in generally good health, have a stable weight, and are not planning on future pregnancies. Ideal patients have realistic goals, a positive outlook, and are ready to make this decision for themselves.
We’ll carefully review your medical history, including any previous surgeries or risk factors for poor wound healing. If you smoke or take certain medications or herbal supplements, you may need to adjust your routine in the weeks leading up to surgery.
Most patients take 1–2 weeks off work, depending on their lifestyle and the extent of their tummy tuck surgery. We’ll provide detailed aftercare instructions, including how to care for your incision site, manage drainage tubes, and wear your compression garments to support healing.
Dr. Spann uses advanced anesthesia techniques, pain medicine, and anti-inflammatory support to ease discomfort. The healing process includes lymphatic massage and early movement to prevent blood clots and support circulation. Our goal is to help you feel confident, supported, and comfortable throughout your entire recovery.
You’ll notice changes in your abdominal area almost immediately. Over the following months, swelling subsides, scars fade, and your new shape becomes even more defined. The tummy tuck scar is placed low, where it is easily concealed. We will advise you on scar management techniques to help the incision line blend well with the surrounding skin.
Most tummy tuck results last for years, especially with a healthy lifestyle and stable weight. You’ll enjoy a stronger core, a more defined silhouette, and enhanced ease of movement. Many patients see a significant improvement in their confidence and quality of life following their tummy tuck procedure.
As one of the most trusted plastic surgeons in Arkansas, Dr. Spann combines technical precision with patient-first care. He is double board-certified in both general and plastic surgery, with extensive experience performing abdominoplasty surgeries for a wide range of patient needs, from post-pregnancy changes to loose skin and stubborn fat deposits after massive weight loss.
Here, you'll never find a one-size-fits-all approach. At Michael Spann, MD, you get the time, attention, and care that your journey deserves.
No. While liposuction removes fat, a tummy tuck also addresses excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles. Sometimes they’re combined for even more refined results.
A mini abdominoplasty targets only the lower abdomen, usually without repositioning the belly button. A complete abdominoplasty addresses the full abdominal wall, muscle separation, and skin laxity, both above and below the belly.
A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure. Rather, it focuses on body contouring and is recommended for patients who are at or near their ideal weight. However, it can improve your shape by removing excess fat and skin and helping clothes fit more comfortably.
Most tummy tuck surgeries take 2–3 hours. You’ll be able to go home the same day in most cases.
In most full tummy tucks, the belly button is preserved and repositioned for a natural appearance. Dr. Spann takes great care to shape and place it in a realistic, flattering way.
Yes, drainage tubes are usually placed to prevent excess fluid from building up. These are temporary and removed during a follow-up visit.
Your tummy tuck scar will sit low, usually along the bikini line, where it can be concealed by clothing or swimwear. With good care, the scar fades significantly over time. We’ll guide you through the best scar care products and habits to support healing.
Like any major surgery, a tummy tuck carries risks such as blood clots, fluid buildup, or changes in skin sensation near the incision site. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon and following detailed aftercare instructions can help reduce these risks and support a smoother recovery.
The cost of your surgery will vary based on the extent of the procedure and any additional treatments you choose. During your initial consultation, we will provide a comprehensive quote and discuss financing options. Little Rock Plastic Surgery offers flexible payment solutions through CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit.
