Your Comprehensive Guide to Tummy Tucks

By Dr. Arthur Yu

Many people may feel self-conscious about the appearance of their abdomen, whether it’s due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, aging, or genetics. Fortunately, a procedure called abdominoplasty can help improve the shape and tone of the abdominal area. Also known as a tummy tuck, this surgery removes excess fat and skin while tightening underlying muscles to create a smoother, firmer appearance.

At Premier Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa in Arcadia, CA, we have years of experience performing abdominoplasty procedures with excellent results. We take the time to thoroughly discuss your concerns and goals to tailor the procedure to your specific needs. If you’re considering abdominoplasty, read on to learn more about tummy tucks and how we can help you achieve your desired results. 

What is a Tummy Tuck? 

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the stomach area and tighten the abdominal muscles. This can be an effective way to achieve a flatter, more toned stomach. A tummy tuck is a common procedure for individuals who have lost significant weight or have lax abdominal muscles due to pregnancy or aging.

What Are the Benefits of Tummy Tucks? 

Many people choose to undergo this procedure for aesthetic reasons, but there are also numerous health benefits associated with a tummy tuck: 

• A flatter, more toned stomach: One of the most common reasons people opt for a tummy tuck is to achieve a flatter, more toned stomach. Even with diet and exercise, getting rid of excess skin and fat in the abdominal area can be difficult. A tummy tuck can help to give you the slim and toned stomach you desire.
• Improved self-confidence: Another benefit of tummy tucks are that they can lead to an improved sense of self-confidence. If you have been unhappy with your appearance due to excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, a tummy tuck can help you feel better about yourself. You may feel more confident in your clothing choices and feel better about your body overall.
• Better physical health: Not only can a tummy tuck improve your mental health, but it can also lead to better physical health. Excess skin and fat in the abdominal area can cause back pain and other health problems. You may experience less pain and improve your overall physical health by getting rid of this excess skin and fat.

Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures

Depending on your individual needs and goals, there are several types of tummy tuck procedures that can be performed.

• Formal tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): This procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the entire abdominal area and tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles.
• Mini tummy tuck: This procedure focuses on removing excess skin and fat from the lower abdominal area below the belly button. This is ideal for patients without muscle repair and with minimal skin laxity. Partial abdominoplasty is also frequently used as a corrective procedure following pregnancy or weight loss.
• Belly button lift: The belly button, or umbilicus, is a common area for excess skin and fat to gather because of age or weight loss. Regarding abdominoplasty and lipo-abdominoplasty, our doctor offers an added step for enhanced aesthetic results: a belly button lift. By utilizing a unique technical solution, the low-placed belly button is elevated by one to two inches. This elevated position is permanent, resulting in a natural, vertically oriented “innie” shape rather than a drooping appearance. Furthermore, the elevated belly button mimics the placement often seen in younger individuals.
• Panniculectomy: A panniculectomy is often recommended for individuals with a significant “apron” or pannus hanging below their stomach, which may cause discomfort or inhibit daily activities. This surgery removes the extra tissue without altering the underlying muscles, as opposed to a tummy tuck (also known as abdominoplasty), which removes excess skin and fat and tightens and smooths the stomach muscles for a more sculpted look.

What Happens During a Tummy Tuck?

Both men and women may be candidates for this surgery if they struggle with stubborn belly fat or loose skin, whether due to weight loss or pregnancy. The procedure typically lasts 1-5 hours and requires an overnight stay at the hospital for monitoring before being released to continue recovery at home. 

If you think this might be the right solution for your aesthetic concerns, we recommend speaking with us to discuss your options and determine if you are suitable for the procedure. Together, you can plan how to achieve your desired results safely and effectively.

Am I a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Most people considering a tummy tuck are dissatisfied with their appearance after losing significant weight or coping with pregnancy-related changes to their bodies. A tummy tuck may be best for you if you have attempted to regain your pre-pregnancy figure through diet and exercise but are still struggling with excess skin and fatty tissue in your stomach area.

Schedule Your Consultation for a Tummy Tuck Today

Abdominoplasty, or a “tummy tuck,” can give patients a flatter, firmer abdominal contour. There are many distinct types of abdominoplasty procedures, and the right procedure for you will depend on your individual goals and needs. At Premier Cosmetic Surgery and Medspa in Arcadia, CA, we can help you. We will collaborate with you to develop a plan that is tailored specifically for you. We serve clients from Arcadia, all the way to the Los Angeles area. Please contact us today if you want to learn more about abdominoplasty or schedule a consultation. We would be happy to answer any of your questions and help you achieve your aesthetic goals.