San Diego Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Most people are aware of the benefits of regular exercise and good nutrition, and use these tools to help themselves lose weight. Unfortunately, diet and exercise may not be able to give you the slim figure you're looking for. The doctors at our San Diego Cosmetic Surgery Center, serving La Jolla and the rest of San Diego, can use liposuction and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) to help you rid your body of those stubborn pockets of fat and excess skin that just don't seem to go away.
Abdominoplasty, also commonly called tummy tuck, is a comprehensive procedure that not only removes excess fat and skin from the midsection but also tightens the abdominal muscles for a firmer, flatter appearance. Our patients in La Jolla and San Diego often choose to combine abdominoplasty with other procedures such as breast augmentation or breast lift for a total body transformation.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Patient Assessment
Good candidates for abdominoplasty include patients who have reached their weight loss goal, yet retain flabby areas in the abdomen, as well as patients who have weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin due to aging, weight loss, or pregnancy.
San Diego-area women considering abdominoplasty at our practice should wait until they have given birth to their last child, as a pregnancy tends to undo the beneficial effects of the surgery.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Procedure
The incision for abdominoplasty is made horizontally across the lower abdomen. In most cases, the scar from this incision can be hidden by underwear and swimsuit bottoms. The doctor may also make a second incision to allow the belly button to be moved. After excess fat is removed, the surgeon tightens the abdominal muscles and secures them in their new positions. Any excess skin is removed, and then the incision is sutured closed.
Our San Diego Cosmetic Surgeons often combine abdominoplasty with liposuction for the most natural results. Depending on the desired outcome and the existing condition of the muscles, some patients may be eligible for a version of abdominoplasty that uses a smaller incision.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Recovery
Before leaving our San Diego Cosmetic Surgery Facility, abdominoplasty patients are fitted with an elastic compression garment that will need to be worn for about three weeks. Pain medication can be taken to control the discomfort caused by the surgery, and a pain pump that administers a time-released dose of numbing medication to the area is provided for three days after surgery. Depending on the patients' pre-surgery fitness level, they may expect to return to work and other activities between two and four weeks after abdominoplasty.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) Results
After abdominoplasty, patients enjoy a narrower waistline and a firm, flat lower abdomen. Following a balanced diet and regular exercise regimen can help to prolong the effects of a tummy tuck.
Contact Us in San Diego for Body Contouring Procedures
If you live in La Jolla or elsewhere in the San Diego area and would like to learn how abdominoplasty can help you achieve your aesthetic goals, contact our plastic surgery practice today. During your consultation with one of our San Diego Plastic Surgeons, you can ask any abdominoplasty tummy tuck questions you may have and find out whether you are a candidate for one or both of these body contouring techniques.
Wendell Smoot, M.D.
John Smoot, M.D.
Reza Sadrian, M.D.
Carol Hollan, M.D.
9850 Genesee Ave. #300, #380
La Jolla, CA 92037
Phone No: (858) 587-9850
Fax: (858) 622-2066
If you live near La Jolla or elsewhere in San Diego and would like to learn more about abdominoplasty or liposuction, contact our practice today.
Sharper Image Loan Application
