Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
A protruding abdomen as a result of weak abdominal muscles, weight gain or pregnancy is a condition that causes distress to thousands of people. This condition does not respond well to diet and exercise because the skin and underlying muscles have been stretched. Today a remarkable procedure called abdominoplasty has been designed to flatten a protruding abdomen through the tightening of abdominal wall muscles and removal of excess fatty tissue and skin. If you are a Huntington Beach, Riverside or Newport Beach Tummy Tuck candidate, the best way to learn about your unique options for a Tummy Tuck is to schedule a complimentary consultation with Dr. Smith. Call our Irvine plastic surgery office at 949.450.2755 or 951.734.2500 in Corona or you can conveniently register for a consultation online.
"I tell my orange county Tummy Tuck patients that abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss," says Dr. Smith. The objective of the surgery is to improve the contour of the body by flattening and narrowing the abdomen. The best candidate for surgery is the individual who has weak abdominal muscles and excess skin and fat. Age, obesity and smoking habits are some of the factors the doctor considers when evaluating a candidate for this procedure.
Before Your Surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. A careful examination is also conducted. We will discuss with the patient what can realistically be expected. Photographs will be taken before and after surgery. The type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, and possible risks and complications are also discussed. Preoperative instructions will include the elimination of certain drugs, which contain aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Antibiotics will be prescribed prior to surgery to prevent infection. The patient will also be advised to bathe with an antiseptic soap for prior to surgery.
Anesthesia and Facilities
Abdominoplasty is performed at The Laguna Hills Surgery Center under general anesthesia. Premedication may be administered to relax the patient. Board Certified anesthesiologists administer your anesthesia and an excellent nursing staff will supervise your recovery.
The Surgery
Although there are several procedures from which to choose, the most frequent Orange County tummy tuck procedure performed involves a transverse incision in the bikini area. The skin is then separated from the abdominal wall and lifted up, exposing the loose tissue that covers the abdominal muscle. The lax abdominal muscles are then sutured in order to tighten loose or stretched out muscles. The skin is then lowered over the abdomen and excess skin and fat is removed. Before the incisions are closed with small sutures, the navel is reconstructed, and usually drains are inserted to prevent fluid buildup. An abdominal binder is then applied to the area. If you are considering plastic surgery, please ask your plastic surgeon for further information about the particular procedure and what you can expect.
Recovery
Surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, although a recovery facility can be arranged if desires. It is important to keep your torso flexed for the first 1-2 weeks after surgery and to limit any strenuous activity during this time. Walking is beneficial as it helps you feel better and helps maintain leg circulation. Drains are typically removed after about 1 week and the binder is usually worn for 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can liposuction be performed at the same time?
Yes. Liposuction is commonly performed at the same time to improve the contour of the flanks or other areas.
When can I return to work?
Most patients take 10-14 days to recover from surgery before returning to work.
For those living in Riverside, Irvine, Newport Beach and Huntington Beach, abdominoplasty questions can be answered by Orange County plastic surgeon Dr. Smith. You can easily schedule your free surgical consultation by calling our Irvine cosmetic surgery office at 949.450.2755 or 951.734.2500 in Corona or you can conveniently register for a consultation online.
Dr. Andrew Smith, providing cosmetic procedures and plastic surgery to those in the Orange County area including Newport Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach & Riverside.