Tummy Tuck

Many people strive for a flat and well­-toned abdomen through exercise and weight control. However, even individuals with a healthy body weight can develop an abdomen that protrudes or is loose and sagging. The most common causes of this include pregnancy, aging, significant fluctuations in weight, heredity, prior surgery. Whatever the reason, many individuals find it nearly impossible to achieve the abdomen they desire.

Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a “tummy tuck,” is a popular procedure that removes excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen and repairs separated muscles to create slimmer, smoother, and firmer appearance. This surgery is an ideal way for men and women to eliminate the last bit of fat or extra skin that exists around the waist.

What is a tummy tuck?

 

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, removes excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen and repairs separated muscles. The result is a slimmer, firmer appearance. Tummy tuck can help to reverse changes caused by various factors.

  • Pregnancy.
  • Aging.
  • Weight fluctuation.
  • Genetics.
  • Prior surgery.

People in overall good health who do not smoke and can maintain their body weight are good candidates for a tummy tuck. Tummy tuck results are permanent, but can be diminished by fluctuations in weight. Individuals who are planning a pregnancy or planning to lose weight may want to postpone a tummy tuck procedure. Additionally, tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss.

 

Are You A Candidate For Tummy Tuck?

You may be a good candidate for tummy tuck surgery if:

  • You are physically and emotionally healthy
  • You are at or close to your ideal weight
  • You do not smoke

Patients seeking a tummy tuck usually have one or more of the following conditions:

  • Excess skin and fat in the stomach
  • Loose or weak abdominal muscles
  • Realistic expectations
  • Not planning on becoming pregnant in the near future

Although the results of an abdominoplasty procedure are technically permanent, the positive outcome can be greatly diminished by significant fluctuations in your weight. Therefore, individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women who may be considering future pregnancies may be advised to postpone abdominoplasty surgery.

What a Tummy Tuck Won’t Do:

Tummy tuck surgery is not a substitute for weight loss or an appropriate exercise program. In addition, an abdominoplasty cannot correct stretch marks, although these may be removed or somewhat improved if they are located on the areas of excess skin that will be removed, which is generally the treated areas below the belly button.

Your Initial Tummy Tuck Consultation

During your initial consultation at Finesse Plastic Surgery, our team of plastic surgeons and physician assistants will explain the tummy tuck procedure in detail. We will also consider your preferences and evaluate your medical history to help you decide if a tummy tuck is right for you.

When you first meet with the Finesse Plastic Surgery team, you can discuss your goals and expectations for the procedure. During this time, you will be asked a number of questions about your health and lifestyle. The success and safety of your tummy tuck surgery will depend on you being completely candid with our plastic surgery team. Therefore, we welcome you to express any concerns and questions that you may have about the procedure.

During your consultation, you should be ready to discuss the following:

  • Why you want tummy tuck surgery, including your preferences, expectations, and desired outcome
  • Medical conditions, drug allergies, and medical treatments
  • Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco, and drugs
  • Previous surgeries
  • Family history
  • During your consultation, our plastic surgery team will:
  • Evaluate your general health status and any pre­existing health conditions or risk factors
  • Take photographs for your medical record
  • Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
  • Discuss the use of anesthesia during your procedure
  • Discuss likely outcomes of the tummy tuck procedure and any potential risks or complications.

In addition, you will be shown many before and after photos of past patients of Finesse Plastic Surgery who have undergone abdominoplasty so you will have a better understanding of the results you may expect to attain.

Preparing For Your Tummy Tuck Procedure

Prior to your breast augmentation, our plastic surgery team will give you instructions on what you will need to do before surgery. These instructions usually include that you:

  • Get lab testing and/or a medical evaluation
  • Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
  • Stop smoking at least two weeks before surgery
  • Avoid taking any anti­inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, because of the possibility of increased bleeding
  • Arrange for a ride home after the procedure
  • In addition, the preoperative instructions will cover:
  • What to do on the day of surgery
  • Postoperative care and follow­up

The Finesse Plastic Surgery team will be sure to inform you in detail what you will need to do before and after your tummy tuck is complete and will ensure all your questions are answered.

Our plastic surgeons have the qualifications and experience necessary to perform your abdominoplasty with safety and effectiveness.

Step 1: Anesthesia

Tummy Tuck In Orange CountyMedications will be administered for your comfort during your abdominoplasty surgery. The choices include intravenous sedation and general anesthesia. Our plastic surgery team will recommend the best choice for you.

Step 2: Techniques

There are different surgical techniques that the surgeon can perform depending on each patient’s individual needs and preferences.

Full Tummy Tuck

A horizontal incision is made between the pubic hairline and the navel. A second incision around the navel may be necessary to remove excess skin in the upper abdomen. After your surgeon removes excess fat and tissue from the upper and lower regions of the stomach, the abdominal muscles are tightened and the incisions are closed with sutures.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A short incision is made above the pubic bone and excess fat and skin are removed. After the lower abdominal muscles are tightened, the incision is closed with sutures.

Fleur-De-Lis Tummy Tuck

A horizontal incision is made in the pubic hairline and a vertical incision is made that extends up the torso. Individuals who undergo this type of procedure have usually already lost a considerable amount of weight or have had bariatric surgery.

Postoperative Instructions

Once your procedure is complete, you will be provided with written instructions, including:

  • Postoperative care at home
  • Prescription(s) for medication(s)
  • Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
  • Follow­up appointments

What To Expect After Your Tummy Tuck Procedure

Once your procedure is complete, you will be provided with written instructions, including:

  • Postoperative care at home
  • Prescription(s) for medication(s)
  • Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
  • Follow­up appointments

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Tummy Tuck ProcedureAfter your tummy tuck procedure is completed, dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions and your midsection may wrapped in an elastic compression garment to reduce swelling and support your abdomen as it heals. In addition, a small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect to minimize swelling after surgery. You may feel some pain and discomfort in your abdominal area, but these symptoms can be alleviated by prescribed medication.

Although the recovery time needed for a tummy tuck varies from person to person, most patients return to work 2­-3 weeks after surgery. However, all strenuous activity and exercise should be avoided for at least four weeks. Although scarring is inevitable, our plastic surgeons will make every effort to place the incision line as low as possible where it can be hidden by most underwear or bathing suits.

Other Considerations

Potential Risks & Complications

As with any type of surgery, there is the rare possibility of complications developing, including bleeding, infection, collection of fluid, and reaction to anesthesia. To ensure a proper recover from your tummy tuck surgery, it is best that you follow the postoperative instructions given to you.

Costs

The entire cost of tummy tuck surgery depends on several factors, such as:

  • Surgeon’s fee
  • Facility fees
  • Anesthesia fees
  • Type of technique performed
  • Prescriptions for medication
  • Post­surgical garments
  • Medical tests

The total cost of surgery will be affected if a tummy tuck is combined with any other procedure, such as liposuction, breast augmentation, or breast lift.

Tummy Tuck Results

The results of a tummy tuck are immediately noticeable and will continue to improve over the coming weeks as swelling and bruising subside. Often, individuals feel a renewed sense of self ­confidence knowing that their stomach is slimmer and more defined. Your can expect your new look to last, as long as you maintain a healthy weight and do not become pregnant.

At Finesse Plastic Surgery we strive to meet all of your expectations and provide you with the results that are natural looking and long lasting. To schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons, please call (714) 408-4242 or fill out our online contact form today.