Doctor’s Thoughts on Tummy Tuck

At Pacific Center Plastic Surgery, we strive to understand your unique concerns and goals to find the right treatment plan for you. When it comes to a surgical procedure like a tummy tuck, we will be honest about the pros and cons of this treatment option. For many, the significant results of a tummy tuck can offer life-changing improvements to the body and confidence.

At Pacific Center Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, our tummy tuck procedure has helped hundreds of patients achieve long-lasting results that restore their midsection by removing excess tissue. As board-certified plastic surgeons in Newport Beach, we aim to deliver the best care, from consultation to post-op. To get started on your procedure or to learn more about your options, contact our office and schedule your consultation today.

What Is A Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure to address excess skin and tissue in the abdominal area. The goal is to tighten and contour the appearance of your abdomen. A tummy tuck can be performed alone or can be combined with other procedures like liposuction for optimal results. It can also be part of a larger transformation like surgery after weight loss, a body lift, or a mommy makeover.

Why You May Consider A Tummy Tuck

Controlling the shape of your midsection can be an ongoing battle, and diet and exercise are not always enough. Reasons you might have excess skin or weakened abdominal muscles include natural aging, your natural body type, significant changes in your weight, and pregnancies.

Tummy tuck surgery does not guarantee lifetime results, but combining the procedure with a renewed and ongoing effort to avoid excess weight gain can improve your appearance, comfort, and self-confidence. It is critically important to select a highly experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck Newport Beach procedure, such as the doctors at Pacific Center Plastic Surgery.

How Is The Tummy Tuck Performed?

There are several different techniques and variations of the tummy tuck that may be performed including the mini, standard, and extended procedures. With any of those, general anesthesia will be used to maximize your comfort. Typically, tummy tuck surgery takes between two and five hours.

Regardless of the technique used, the concept is simple and straightforward. During your Tummy Tuck Newport Beach plastic surgeons, one of our board-certified plastic surgerons will cut away excess skin and fat to flatten the appearance of your stomach. Often, your underlying abdominal muscles are also surgically fastened to achieve a taut core. Multiple liposuction techniques may be used at the same time if needed or desired.

World-class plastic surgeons such as the doctors at Pacific Center Plastic Surgery will make your incisions small and discreet and their surgical techniques are designed to minimize scarring.

Am I A Candidate For A Tummy Tuck?

Both men and women can benefit from a tummy tuck to address their concerns with excess skin and hanging tissue on the abdomen. These concerns might be present due to dramatic weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. The best candidates will be within their ideal weight range.

Chronic conditions such as diabetes may be disqualifying, as can a body mass index (BMI) greater than thirty. If you smoke, your surgeon will likely direct you to stop smoking for several weeks before and following your tummy tuck.

Remember that a tummy tuck is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise. Also, know that a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery. While it is intended to make you look better and feel more comfortable and confident in your skin, it is not designed to improve your physical health. It is vitally important that you discuss with your surgeon in detail about your tummy tuck goals and expectations so that everyone is on the same page!

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Preparing For Your Tummy Tuck

Before you and your doctor agree to schedule tummy tuck surgery, you will need to provide your medical history, including a list of previous surgeries and any medications or supplements you are taking. You’ll likely be directed to suspend use of aspirin or any other medication that may promote excessive bleeding.

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Risks Of Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is considered a safe procedure. But like any surgery, it does carry risks including but not limited to infection, bleeding, unexpected scarring, complications from anesthesia, or allergic reaction to medications and/or materials used in the procedure. These are among the many reasons you should only consider an experienced and qualified board-certified plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck procedure.

What Is Recovery Like After A Tummy Tuck?

Immediately following your surgery, you will be taken to a post-operative recovery area where your vital signs will continue to be monitored. It may take several hours before your body processes the anesthesia used in your surgery. In most cases you can go home the day of the surgery. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after you leave the surgical facility and stay with you for at least your first night back home.

Your ongoing recovery after a tummy tuck will depend on the extent of your procedure and the techniques used. Patients typically need 1-2 weeks before returning to work and regular activities. During this time, some swelling, bruising, and general discomfort can be expected. Your doctor will prescribe pain control medication as necessary and appropriate.

You may need to wear a support garment for several weeks following your surgery. During that period, you should avoid body positions that may strain your incision line. Your doctor will schedule follow-up visits with you to help you complete your recovery and maximize your results.

Tummy Tuck Results

The results of your tummy tuck will become apparent as your swelling and other side effects diminish. This may take a few weeks to several months. Once the swelling has resolved, you can enjoy a flatter, more toned abdomen without excess skin and tissue getting in the way. After the procedure, our Newport Beach Tummy Tuck patients report feeling more confident when wearing tight clothing, bathing suits or going shirtless.

At Pacific Center Plastic Surgery, we strive to offer the best Tummy Tuck Newport Beach has to offer and the results of your procedure are long-lasting, but to ensure their longevity you should practice a healthy diet and exercise routine to avoid weight gain.

Your Consultation At Pacific Center Plastic Surgery

The doctors at Pacific Center Plastic Surgery are among the most accomplished and respected plastic surgeons in the country. Dr. Nichter and Dr. Horowitz are experts in the tummy tuck procedures and they take great pride in staying at the forefront of advanced surgical techniques. They can meet with you to discuss your concerns and determine if a tummy tuck is right for you. At Pacific Center Plastic Surgery, both in-person and virtual consultations are available.

Our doctors and staff seek the very best for your health, happiness and appearance and are eager to assist you in your journey toward becoming your best you. To learn more about your tummy tuck options at Pacific Center Plastic Surgery, contact our office and request a consultation.