Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Overview
Tummy tuck, clinically known as abdominoplasty, is a
plastic surgery procedure performed on patients who are keen to achieve a flatter and firmer abdomen, but are unable to do so with diet or exercise. The
cosmetic surgeon will remove the loose skin and excess fat tissue, while tightening the underlying weak muscles in the abdominal region.
See Tummy Tuck Before & After Photos.
Dr. Hisham Seify is a board certified
plastic surgeon providing this procedure to patients in Newport Beach, Orange County, CA, and surrounding areas. During the initial consultation, Dr. Seify will explain to the patient that tummy tuck
cosmetic surgery is designed to provide a smoother and flatter tummy, but it is not a weight loss procedure. His goal is to help the patient make an informed decision about tummy tuck or other procedures.
Suitable Candidates
Tummy tuck surgery is more suited for people who have good general health and fairly stable body weight. If they are unable to achieve results with diet or exercise with regard to reduction of excess fat deposits and loose skin in the abdomen, the
cosmetic surgeon may recommend a tummy tuck procedure. A spectacular or stellar candidate will be a non-smoker or ready to stop smoking several weeks before and after surgery. They will also have clear aesthetic goals and realistic expectations.
Preparing for the Surgery
Prior to the tummy tuck
cosmetic surgery the patient may have to undergo a few medical tests. The patient will also be advised to stop taking aspirin, pain medications or herbal supplements in consultation with their physician until after the procedure. The
plastic surgeon will make a detailed treatment plan in close consultation with the patient. The surgeon will also provide instructions to the patient about the day of surgery, the type of anesthesia to be used, and post-surgical care, recovery, and follow-up visits.
Surgical Procedure
The patient will be placed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation and local anesthesia, depending on the case. The
plastic surgery will involve a horizontal incision in the area between the pubic hairline and the navel. The shape and length of the incision will be decided according the extent of surgery required.
The underlying weak and separated abdominal muscles will be repaired and sutured together through the incision, and excess fat and skin will be excised. A second incision may be placed to remove loose skin from the upper abdomen. Incisions will be closed with sutures once the procedure is completed.
Recovery and Results
Following the surgery, the treated area will be wrapped in bandages or dressings. A slender drain tube may be placed underneath the skin temporarily to collect excess blood or fluid. The surgeon may provide a compression garment to be wrapped around the treated area to promote faster healing and lessen the swelling.
Most patients will be able to return to their normal activities or go back to work within 10 to 14 day s after the procedure. Initial results will be visible immediately, but full results of tummy tuck will appear as the bruising and swelling resolves over several weeks and months.
See more procedures and treatments by plastic surgeon Dr. Hisham Seify in Newport Beach | Orange County
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