ABDOMINOPLASTY

Abdominoplasty Surgery procedure in Orange County

Tummy Tuck is the common term used for an abdominoplasty; a plastic surgery procedure that removes excess or loose abdominal skin. The procedure may treat the center of the abdomen or may extend to the entire area between the lower rib cage and pubic bone, as well as to the sides and back.

Your Orange County surgeon will determine the abdominoplasty technique that is right for you. Local deposits of fat around the abdomen can usually be treated with contouring liposuction techniques. However, when excess fat is combined with loose, sagging skin and tissue, an abdominoplasty surgery is required to remove unwanted fat, tissues and excess skin. A full tummy tuck can also repair weakened abdominal muscles. The mini-tummy tuck is generally reserved for patients with good muscle tone and little excess skin.

Abdominoplasty During the procedure, a long incision is made between the hip bones. The shape, generally a crescent, depends on the degree of correction needed. Sometimes a second incision, near the navel, is needed to free it from abdominal tissue and remove excess skin from the upper abdomen. Rectus muscles that have weakened or that have been stretched during previous pregnancies are stitched together tightening them and shrinking the waistline. After the muscles have been repaired excess fat and skin are removed. The remaining skin is repositioned over the abdominal muscles and sewn into place. The navel is then brought to the right position.

Tummy tuck surgery An abdominoplasty should not be considered a substitute for weight loss. Although the results of cosmetic surgery are technically permanent, a tummy tuck can be greatly affected by significant fluctuations in weight.

If you are planning on losing a substantial amount of weight or if you are planning to become pregnant Dr. Doezie advises that you postpone your abdominoplasty.

Good abdominoplasty candidates:

Are in good physical shape, moderately fit and close to their ideal body weight
Have good muscle tone
Have loose excess skin and fat that is resilient to exercise
Have realistic expectation for their outcome
Do not have a life-threatening conditions or illnesses that can impair healing
Are Non-Smokers

Abdominoplasty does produce a scar along the full width of the bikini line. However, the scar is usually made in a natural crease and is easily hidden by most clothing and swimsuits. If you have previously had a cesarean section, the existing scars can often be used as the incisions sites for your tummy tuck.

Abdominoplasty Recovery

Compared to other plastic surgery procedures, a tummy tuck requires a longer recovery time. It may take up to three weeks before you can return to normal activity. Immediately following surgery at our Orange County center you will be placed in a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your abdomen as it heals. You will be given pain medication to alleviate any discomfort at the incision sites. For several days you will be instructed to avoid bending, lifting or other strenuous activity. Dr. Doezie may also instruct you not to stand fully upright, to avoid stressing any internal sutures as they heal, and to elevate your knees when you lay down. A return to light activity is possible as soon as you feel ready, usually within a few days of surgery. Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling goes down and incision lines continue to improve.

Abdominoplasty Results

Most patients see their results immediately and, over the months following your surgery, your skin’s surface will become even firmer. Scars will start to lighten in color but it may take a year or more before they resolve to some degree.

Your new flat and firm abdomen will be relatively permanent. If you have additional children you may require a second tummy tuck. Additionally, the natural aging process may cause your abdomen to lose some firmness. However, these changes are minimal compared to your initial conditions that were corrected to achieve your new firm abdomen. Although you should maintain your weight and fitness level, small fluctuations will rarely cause you to require another cosmetic surgery.

Abdominoplasty Cost in Orange County

Abdominoplasty costs in Orange County can vary based on a number of different factors. Dr. Doezie will determine your exact quote at the time of your consultation. Visit our patient resources page for more information.