Eight Answered Questions About Tummy Tuck Surgery
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A tummy tuck in Beverly Hills, CA is truly one of the most rewarding cosmetic procedures offered at our practice with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi. Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular body contouring technique to remove loose skin and fatty pockets in the stomach area and tighten underlying abdominal muscles for a more toned, fit-looking profile. Before scheduling your one-on-one consultation at Dr. Hakimi's office, he has provided answers to some common questions often asked about tummy tuck surgery.
1. What can I expect during my consultation?
Dr. Hakimi will provide a personalized and comprehensive consultation that includes an examination, reviewing your health history, looking at before and after patient photos, and discussing treatment options. Dr. Hakimi will tailor your tummy tuck surgery according to your desired goals and aesthetic needs.
2. Is this body contouring procedure right for me?
The best candidates for abdominoplasty are healthy men and women with excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen area. A tummy tuck is often part of a mommy makeover procedure, helping women after pregnancy to remove excess fat and skin from the lower abdomen after their body weight has stabilized after childbirth.
3. What does a tummy tuck do?
Abdominoplasty involves:
- Removing excess skin
- Tightening the underlying abdominal muscles
- Getting rid of unwanted fat via liposuction
With a full tummy tuck, an incision is generally made low in the abdomen area, extending from hip to hip. A mini tummy tuck is similar, but the incision is shorter in length and below the belly button. Depending on the extent of the procedure and technique involved, tummy tuck surgery generally takes about 2 – 4 hours to complete.
4. Is excess skin removal the primary goal with a tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty is designed to address the lower midsection area's appearance by removing excess, loose skin and tightening lax abdominal muscles. In some cases, liposuction can be integrated to remove stubborn pockets of unwanted fat for a more contoured look.
5. What is the difference between a mini and full tummy tuck?
These abdominoplasty options involve removing loose skin and tightening abdominal muscles for a smooth, taut, and toned-looking appearance. The main difference between these two body contouring techniques is a mini tummy tuck is confined to the lower abdomen below the belly button. A full tummy tuck is necessary to rejuvenate the areas both below and above the belly button.
6. What can I expect after tummy tuck surgery?
Tummy tuck surgery is an outpatient procedure performed with general anesthesia. You will return home to recover the same day and need someone to stay with you for at least the first 24 hours. The team at Dr. Hakimi's office will provide detailed postoperative guidelines to limit your activity and take pain medication. You will be required to bend at the waistline while lying down or standing for the first 7 – 10 days after tummy tuck surgery to protect the incision. If a drain is placed, it will be removed once the output is low enough, usually 1 – 2 weeks. A compression garment will be provided and worn for 4 – 6 weeks to help reduce swelling.
7. How long is tummy tuck recovery?
Based on the type of technique and length of procedure, tummy tuck recovery times may vary. Most patients take 1 – 2 weeks off from work to allow themselves enough time to heal. After three weeks, most side effects should subside, but swelling will continue to diminish over the next three months. Workouts can generally begin around 4 – 6 weeks or once cleared by Dr. Hakimi. Tummy tuck scarring will continue to heal and become lighter in color and thinner over the next 12 – 18 months.
8. What does a tummy tuck near me cost?
Insurance generally does not cover plastic surgery unless it is a medical necessity. Tummy tuck surgery is generally considered a cosmetic procedure, so it will be an out-of-pocket surgical expense. The cost of abdominoplasty will vary by the plastic surgeon, depending on their geographical location in the United States. The knowledgeable team at Dr. Hakimi's office will discuss all your costs ahead of time, including anesthesia, operating room expenses, and surgical fees, so you are prepared beforehand for this life-changing procedure.
If you are considering a tummy tuck in Beverly Hills, CA, we invite you to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Hakimi. Dr. Hakimi's expert surgical experience and advice can help you make an informed decision when considering abdominoplasty. Contact one of our dedicated team members to schedule an in-person or online consultation today.