C.L.A.S.S. TUMMY TUCK

The C.L.A.S.S. (Combined Lipo-Abdominoplasty Sculpting & Shaping) technique was developed several years ago by Dr. Frank Campanile. This completely "drain-less" or "no-drain" technique is a combination of Brazilian, Italian and American techniques, along with Dr. Campanile's recent refinements for his Denver tummy tuck patients. Dr. Campanile has found the C.L.A.S.S. technique to be a superior tummy tuck procedure, with much improved results and outcomes. Abdominoplasty has always been Dr. Campanile's favorite cosmetic procedure, largely from seeing the tremendous amount of patient satisfaction following significant body contour improvement. 

Request a consultation online to learn more about how a tummy tuck can help you achieve an attractive midsection. Also, take a few minutes to view C.L.A.S.S. technique patient photos to see the results Dr. Campanile can achieve. We're here for you every step of the way and look forward to meeting with you.

Body Sculpting Tailored for You

Traditionally, a tummy tuck procedure was carried out without liposuction, as there were some concerns about the effect of traumatizing liposuction cannulas on the blood supply to the overlying skin, with potentially devastating loss of tissue and poor scarring. Although a decent amount of excess skin and fat could be removed with this approach, the final contour, especially in the upper abdomen and flanks, was often disappointing. 

Several years ago, Brazilian plastic surgeons demonstrated that liposuction of the entire abdomen and flanks could be added to the tummy tuck procedure by simply respecting the blood supply emanating from the abdominal muscles to the overlying skin flap. This allows for a much better final shape, with increased patient satisfaction.

Dr. Campanile's C.L.A.S.S. procedure consists of the Brazilian lipo-abdominoplasty technique, as well as additional steps that address other areas as well. First, extensive liposuction of the abdomen and flanks is carried out, followed by tightening of the rectus muscle fascia to flatten the abdominal wall. Excess skin and fat is also removed from both sides of the midline. The skin is then secured to the lower incision near the pubic area, with multiple layers of sutures relieving skin tension to create a nicer final scar.

The umbilicus (“belly button”) is recreated with a subtle concavity immediately around it, which gives it a more natural and toned appearance. Internal sutures attach the skin to the underlying abdominal musculature in several key places, creating multiple small compartments. Because of this, Dr. Campanile can avoid the use of surgical drains in over 99% of his C.L.A.S.S. tummy tuck procedures. Avoiding the use of drains is a huge benefit for our patients, since carrying and emptying drains is an uncomfortable and unpleasant part of abdominal surgery.

The C.L.A.S.S. technique, exclusively available in Denver from tummy tuck specialist Dr. Campanile, has a slightly shorter recovery than the typical 2 to 4 weeks associated with a traditional tummy tuck. Dr. Campanile states that, "I would never return to the previous tummy tuck procedures I learned to perform during my residency training. The C.L.A.S.S. technique has clear advantages and although it may take slightly longer to carry out due to the multiple steps involved, the final contour clearly justifies its use. Patients are usually thrilled with the outcome."

It’s only natural to have many more questions about your surgery. Read our C.L.A.S.S Tummy Tuck FAQs to learn more about this procedure. If you have additional questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help you.