Having a flat, contoured abdomen is important to most people. Unfortunately, the abdomen can be one of the most difficult areas to target. Pregnancy, weight fluctuations, and aging often take a huge toll on the body. The aftermath is excess fat and loose, hanging skin on the abdomen, as well as weak abdominal muscles. For the most part, the effects of aging, weight gain and loss, and childbirth cannot be addressed solely with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Tummy tuck surgery is an effective procedure that involves the surgical excision of excess skin and fat and the tightening of the abdominal muscles. Patients can achieve a firmer, more toned abdomen and enjoy their results for many years.
Schedule Your Consultation TodayAchieved With Tummy Tuck Surgery
Defined Abdomen
Whether you are a woman seeking to regain your pre-childbirth figure, a massive weight loss patient wanting to correct excess, hanging skin, or a man who wants to eliminate a protruding “beer belly,” tummy tuck surgery can help you achieve a more defined abdomen. This procedure slims the waistline and contours the entire abdominal area.
Dr. Taylor will help a patient achieve a more toned abdomen by removing excess fat, reducing the amount of hanging skin, tightening the abdominal muscle walls, and redraping the skin into a more flattering shape.
Personally Tailored Results
Every patient has a different anatomy and unique goals; therefore, the tummy tuck procedure should be designed for the individual and their particular body type and the severity of their abdominal condition. Dr. Taylor will examine each patient and discuss their tummy tuck options with them. Patients with minimal excess skin and fat just below the navel may be better suited for a mini tummy tuck.
During a consultation with Dr. Taylor, he will evaluate each patient thoroughly and create a surgical plan that is specific to meet their preferences and goals.
Increased Confidence
Before tummy tuck surgery, many patients felt the appearance of their abdomen affected their overall self-image. They thought that certain clothing styles were unflattering on them and avoided showing off their midsection altogether.
After tummy tuck surgery, patients feel positive about their newly contoured abdominal area and can wear clothing fashions they had usually steered away from before.
What Does a Tummy Tuck Entail?
Procedure
The procedure will be performed using a general anesthetic. An incision is made just above the pubic area from hip to hip. The shape and length of the incision will be determined by the amount of excess skin. Unwanted fat and skin are removed, and the extra skin is separated from the abdominal wall all the way up to the ribs. Dr. Taylor will tighten underlying muscles and stitch them in place. The skin is redraped, drawn down smooth, and stitched closed. A new hole is created for the navel.
Recovery
A dressing or compression garment will be applied to the area to help reduce bruising and swelling. Small, thin tubes may be placed under the skin to drain any blood or fluid. Dr. Taylor will provide patients with instructions on how to properly care for surgical sites and drains.
Patients should avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks. A typical patient will take about two to four weeks to recover; after that time, they may return to work and their regular routine.
Scars
Most patients will be left with a permanent scar that will fade and become less noticeable. The scar will be easily camouflaged within the bikini area.
Cost
The cost of tummy tuck surgery will vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the geographic location of the surgery. Dr. Taylor has more than 20 years of experience performing procedures such as tummy tuck surgery. His craft, skill, and commitment to providing the latest procedures and techniques make him capable of helping his patients achieve superior and life-changing results.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the average cost of tummy tuck surgery is $8,174. This price does not include anesthesia, surgical fees, and other related expenses. Dr. Taylor will provide you with a more accurate cost estimate during your consultation.
Pain
There will be some pain and discomfort due to the post-surgical bruising and swelling. The general anesthetic administered during surgery will provide patients with comfort throughout their procedure. Prescribed oral medication can be used to alleviate any pain during the recovery process. Pain pumps are frequently employed for pain control over the first several days.
Why Choose Dr. Taylor for Your Tummy Tuck
Dr. Thomas S. Taylor has been practicing plastic and reconstructive surgery in Pasadena, CA, for over two decades, providing beautiful results with attention to the unique aesthetic of each patient. Our team at Taylor Plastic Surgery Center is committed to creating a positive and empowering experience for each patient that we see. For stunning results, a caring and supportive team, and an experienced, honest plastic surgeon, choose Taylor Plastic Surgery Center for your tummy tuck.
Schedule your free consultation today!
Contact UsFAQs
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Who is the best candidate for tummy tuck surgery?
The best candidates for tummy tuck surgery have realistic expectations and are in good health. Those wanting to lose significant amounts of weight should do so before surgery. Women should hold off on their surgery until they are done having children.
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How do I prepare for my tummy tuck surgery?
Patients should refrain from smoking two weeks before and two weeks after surgery. They should avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal medications. It is also important that patients are hydrated before undergoing a surgical procedure.
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What are the risks and complications associated with tummy tuck surgery?
Although rare, some risks and complications with tummy tuck surgery can include:
- Anesthesia risks
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Unfavorable scarring
- Persistent pain
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Will my tummy tuck surgery results be permanent?
Although tummy tuck results are expected to last a lifetime, the procedure does not halt the aging process. Results may also change based on weight fluctuations and pregnancy. It is suggested to keep to a healthy diet and exercise regimen to maintain lasting results.
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Can tummy tuck surgery be combined with other plastic surgery procedures?
Tummy tuck surgery is commonly performed along with other procedures, such as liposuction, breast lift surgery, and breast augmentation surgery. Typically, these procedures are combined during a Mommy Makeover. Tummy tuck surgery is also popular among massive weight loss patients who often undergo several body lifting procedures to correct loose, hanging skin throughout the body.
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How long does tummy tuck surgery take to perform?
Each patient is different, but abdominoplasty can take anywhere from two to five hours. This is highly dependent on the needs of the patient, how much revision is necessary (such as how much skin needs to be removed, the navel replaced, etc.), and whether the procedure is combined with any others. The best way to determine how long your specific procedure will be is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Taylor. Once he listens to your goals and expectations, he can create a plan that details the techniques he’ll use and how long the procedure will be.
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Will tummy tuck surgery help me lose weight?
It’s a common misconception that tummy tuck surgery helps patients lose weight. It doesn’t—or not in the way you might think. Abdominoplasty is not considered a weight loss procedure; it’s more so meant to refine and tone the body after weight loss or due to natural changes in the body, such as pregnancy or aging. Dr. Taylor may excise some fat and skin, so a small amount of mass will be removed, but not enough to be considered “weight loss.”
In fact, we urge our abdominoplasty patients to consider surgery only when they are close to their goal weight. This will give you the best possible results that are easier to maintain and enjoy once healed.
