Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a procedure that can remove excess skin and fat while tightening underlying muscles to slim the midsection and reduce a protruding stomach. Tummy tuck surgery can benefit both men and women looking to enhance their body contours, increase self-confidence, and regain a youthful figure.
Dr. Ronald E. Moser specializes in body contouring and offers three tummy tuck options in Southern California, including the mini tummy tuck, full tummy tuck, and extended tummy tuck. AesthetiCare offers offices in Newport Beach, San Juan Capistrano, Corona, and Encinitas.
What Can a Tummy Tuck Correct?
What Are Your Tummy Tuck Options?
Full Tummy Tuck
Full tummy tuck surgery is ideal for patients with excess skin, fat, and muscle laxity in both the upper and lower abdomen.
Your surgeon will make an incision along your bikini line directly above the pubic area and a second incision around the belly button.
The skin will be separated from the muscles up to the rib cage. The vertical muscles of the abdomen will then be stitched together to provide a tighter abdominal wall. The skin will be pulled tight, and excess skin and fat will be removed.
A new opening will be created for the belly button and stitched into place.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck addresses excess skin, fat, and minimal muscle laxity below the navel using a single incision along the lower abdomen (a second incision around the belly button is not needed).
The skin will be separated from the underlying tissues up to the belly button, and excess skin and fat tissue will be removed. Once your abdominal muscles are tightened, the skin will be draped back over the abdomen, and the incision will be stitched together with sutures.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck procedure is best suited for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight. It targets excess skin throughout the abdomen, across the hips, and around the back.
An extended incision will be made low in the pubic area that extends around the hips and onto the back as needed to remove excess skin. This procedure contours and slims the belly and hips for a more toned physique.
Concerns
Recovery
After your surgery, an abdominal binder will be given to you for support as you heal. You should be up and about in one to two days, but still take it easy as you recover. It could take weeks before you feel back to normal. Light exercise, such as walking, is recommended to help you feel better and heal faster.
Be sure to avoid all strenuous exercise for at least six weeks, or until you are cleared by Dr. Moser.
Scars
Because incisions are required for all tummy tuck variations, scars will develop. These scars will be carefully placed in easy-to-conceal locations, and scarring will fade over time. Following your aftercare instructions and keeping your incision out of direct sunlight will aid in healing.
Patients are also recommended to wear their compression garment for the instructed period and not engage in strenuous activities too soon. Doing so may cause the incisions to separate, thereby worsening the extent of scarring. Scar creams and silicone strips may be applied once the incisions have closed to help minimize the scar’s appearance.
Cost
The cost of tummy tuck surgery depends on many factors, such as:
- Length of the procedure and technique used
- Patient’s needs and aesthetic goals
- Anesthesia fees
- Operating room fees
- Geographical location
Never sacrifice quality for price when choosing your surgeon. We offer financing options for qualifying patients.
Pain
Swelling and pain in the abdomen are normal. Any discomfort you experience can be handled with pain medication prescribed by your surgeon.