Abdominoplasty "Tummy Tuck" Surgeries

<![CDATA[Abdominoplasty, aka "Tummy Tuck", is a surgical procedure that can flatten and shape the abdomen and waist. The surgery accomplishes this by removing excess fat and skin and then tightening the surrounding muscles. It can even be used to restore weak or separated muscles, resulting in a smoother and firmer abdomen. This procedure is not an effective weight loss solution on its own but it can enhance weight loss efforts and bring confidence and self-esteem to the patient. Women who have stretched skin and abdominal muscles due to pregnancy are often ideal candidates for tummy tucks. But men can benefit from tummy tucks as well. With a balanced diet, healthy lifestyle and regular exercise, the results can be extremely effective and long-lasting. What To Expect After: You may be expecting to see a flat and firm abdomen as soon as you head home after surgery. Don’t be worried if this is not the case! Swelling and sore muscles that prohibit you from standing fully upright will hide the results of your tummy tuck. But within a few weeks your recovery will be well underway. Initially, you will have dressings and bandages compressing your incision spots. These may be further supported by a compression garment or elastic bandages. All of these precautions help reduce swelling and provide support for your abdominal muscles as they heal. Are You A Candidate For Abdominoplasty Surgery? Ideal candidates for abdominoplasty surgery are healthy, maintain a stable weight and do not smoke. You should also have realistic expectations for your procedure and understand the risks and rewards of a tummy tuck. If you have had previous abdominal surgery, be sure to inform our Los Angeles doctors since prior surgeries can affect the results of a tummy tuck. Women who have had a Cesarean section can usually undergo abdominoplasty without a problem and the C-section scars may even be able to be incorporated into the new scar. Abdominoplasty can effectively combat loose or sagging skin caused by: •    Pregnancy •    Normal aging •    Significant weight loss or weight fluctuations •    Heredity or •    Prior surgeries Although the results of a tummy tuck are permanent, large fluctuations in weight can negatively affect your long-term results. For this reason, our surgeons will recommend following a healthy lifestyle and keeping your weight in check. They may recommend that women who are planning to become pregnant wait until after they are done having children to have the procedure done. See before and after photos.]]>