Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as tummy tuck, is performed to remove excess fat and skin from the abdomen and tighten the abdominal wall to create a smoother, flatter, and firmer contour. The best candidates for abdominoplasty are men or women who are in relatively good shape but are bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won't respond to diet and exercise. The surgery is particularly helpful to women who, through multiple pregnancies, have stretched their abdominal muscles and skin beyond the point where they can return to normal through diet and exercise alone. Loss of skin elasticity in older patients, which can occur with slight obesity, can also be improved.

The Procedure

A complete abdominoplasty usually takes two to three hours, depending on the extent of work required. It requires an incision from hipbone to hipbone and also requires an incision around the navel. A partial abdominoplasty, or mini tummy tuck, may take an hour or two and often is combined with liposuction depending on the candidate. The incision for a mini tummy tuck is much shorter and does not require an incision around the navel.

With either the full or partial tummy tuck, a well camouflaged incision is made in a natural skin crease of the bikini area. The abdominal muscles are brought back together providing a firmer abdominal wall and the excess skin and fat are removed.

Recovery

You can expect mild to moderate swelling and discomfort which is well controlled with oral pain medication. You should plan on not driving or working for 7-10 days depending on your work requirements. Vigorous exercise or heavy lifting need to be avoided for atleast 4 weeks. Drains are placed under the abdominal flap to prevent any fluid collection and are usually removed after 5 -10 days in the office.

For more information about tummy tuck surgery in Irvine California contact us today. Abdominoplasty surgeon Dr. Lawton sees patients from Orange County, Newport Beach, Huntington Beach and other areas across Southern California.