Abdominoplasty, commonly known as tummy tuck
cosmetic surgery, is a procedure performed on patients who need to achieve a flatter abdomen, but are unable to do so with diet or exercise. Board certified
plastic surgeon, Dr. Hisham Seify, provides this procedure to his patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA and nearby regions. The following is a list of some of the frequently asked questions pertaining to tummy tuck procedure.
See Tummy Tuck Before & After Photos.
What is abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty or tummy tuck is a
plastic surgery procedure designed to reduce loose skin and excess tissue from around the abdominal area, and tighten the underlying weak or separated muscles in the abdomen. The goal of the
cosmetic surgeon is to create firmer and flatter abdominal contour in proportion to the rest of the body.
Can liposuction be used instead of tummy tuck?
A
cosmetic surgeon may recommend liposuction instead of tummy tuck if the patient needs only excess fat removal. However, if the protruding abdominal appearance is caused by muscle laxity, excess skin and stubborn fat deposits, a tummy tuck
plastic surgery may be more effective. In some cases, both tummy tuck and liposuction may be used in conjunction.
Does tummy tuck reduce excess body weight?
Tummy tuck is more suited for people with a stable and moderate body weight. It is not a weight reduction
cosmetic surgery. If the patient has undergone substantial weight loss and suffers from loose skin around the waist, a tummy tuck may be recommended. As an experienced
plastic surgeon, Dr. Seify will evaluate the patient’s overall condition and body weight before recommending a tummy tuck to his patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding communities.
Is it safe to have tummy tuck performed along with another procedure?
Tummy tuck surgery is often performed in combination with liposuction, breast surgery, or other procedures. It is also usually included as a part of a mommy makeover surgery. It is important to choose an experienced
cosmetic surgeon who is well-versed with performing multiple procedures, including tummy tuck.
Can diet or exercise be a substitute for tummy tuck?
A good surgeon will encourage patients to adopt an active and healthy lifestyle and try to achieve the desired aesthetic results through diet and exercise. However, if the fat deposits are stubborn and excess loose skin and weak underlying muscles are involved, it may not be possible to achieve the aesthetic goals with diet or exercise. In such cases, the surgeon will recommend a tummy tuck procedure.
How long will the results of a tummy tuck last?
In ideal conditions, the results of tummy tuck surgery can be permanent or very long lasting. The patient should maintain a regimen of exercise and follow a balanced diet. Tummy tuck surgery is not a substitute for diet or exercise. Aging effects will eventually make the skin loose, but excess fat deposits can be avoided permanently.
What is the recovery process?
Most patients will have to go through a period of reduced activity for about 10 to 14 days. Pain and discomfort in the treated area can be managed with pain medications in the first week. The patient can expect to go back to work within a week to 10 days. Complete swelling will take several weeks to resolve.
See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach | Orange County
