Tummy Tuck in Orange County

If you have loose skin and flab on your abdomen that refuses to respond to diet and exercise, it can be challenging to attain the firm, attractive contours around your midsection you desire.

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a highly effective surgical procedure designed to improve troublesome issues caused by significant weight loss, pregnancy, and age.

Dr. Robert Wald is a double board-certified plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck surgery in Orange County at his fully accredited surgical center in Fullerton, California.

The Aesthetic Institute offers an ideal setting for your tummy tuck consultation, surgery, initial recovery, and follow-up visits.

What Are the Benefits of Abdominoplasty?

A tummy tuck is a comprehensive cosmetic surgery that addresses several areas of concern to deliver dramatic results. Here are a few of the benefits abdominoplasty has to offer:

Eliminates Stubborn Residual Fat

A tummy tuck involves trimming and toning the abdominal area by removing stubborn pockets of fat for patients with excess fat after considerable weight loss or a recent pregnancy.

Removal of residual fat during a tummy tuck may involve liposuction, excision, or a combination of both.

Repairs Loose Abdominal Muscles

Abdominal (core) muscles can separate for several reasons (often during pregnancy).

During a tummy tuck, Dr. Wald can tighten the core muscles to create a firmer, fitter-looking abdominal contour.

Tightens Loose, Excess Skin

One of the primary reasons to undergo an abdominoplasty is to eliminate excess skin around the torso.

This extra skin and any stretch marks in the area are removed, further slimming your waist and adding definition to your figure or physique.

Offers Customized Options

Three types of abdominoplasty are available: traditional, mini, and extended tummy tucks. If you are self-conscious about the appearance of your midsection due to loose skin and stubborn residual fat, one of these options can help.

What Are My Tummy Tuck Options?

Traditional Tummy Tuck

A traditional tummy tuck is best for patients who have excess tissue, fat, and stretch marks on their upper and lower abdomen. It is also performed to repair abdominal muscles that have separated down the midline due to pregnancy (known as diastasis recti). Also called a full abdominoplasty, a traditional tummy tuck eliminates loose skin and pockets of fat, leaving you with a more contoured waistline.

Mini Tummy Tuck

Mini tummy tucks treat patients with poor skin elasticity and localized fat below the belly button. It is typically used to get rid of a lower tummy “pooch” that won’t respond to diet and exercise, as well as to eliminate stretch marks in that area.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck is best for patients with excess skin after major weight loss, often following bariatric surgery. The sagging skin may extend to the hips and back, requiring more extensive correction and longer or additional incisions.

How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

Tummy tucks are outpatient procedures performed using general anesthesia, and, depending on the option that’s right for you, the procedure can last between two and three hours.

Traditional Tummy Tuck

Dr. Wald begins a traditional tummy tuck by making an incision just above the pubic area, extending from hip bone to hip bone. A second incision is also made around the navel to reposition or recreate the belly button at the end of the surgery. Once the incisions are made, Dr. Wald separates adipose tissue from the abdominal wall and removes stubborn pockets of fat via liposuction. He then repairs damaged abdominal muscles by pulling them together and securing them with permanent sutures. To recontour your belly and waist, he trims away excess skin, then redrapes it tautly over the abdominal area for a firmer, slimmer appearance and creates a new navel to match your tighter abdomen. He finishes the surgery by closing your incisions, placing drains to eliminate excess fluid buildup, and applying a compression garment to minimize swelling.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck uses a shorter incision than a traditional tummy tuck (typically between four and eight inches long) placed in the same area. Excess fat is removed, and a smaller amount of skin is removed to smooth and slim the lower abdomen. Once the redundant tissue is removed, the skin is pulled tight over your abdomen, secured with incisions, and a compression garment is applied.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck begins with an incision that extends across your lower abdomen in the same location as a traditional tummy tuck. However, for an extended tummy tuck, the incision continues around your flanks on both sides to eliminate excess skin and flab between your waist, hips, and occasionally your lower back. Once the incision is made, the rest of the procedure is similar to a traditional tummy tuck. Loose skin and unwanted fat are removed, separated abdominal muscles are repaired, and a new navel is created. Finally, Dr. Wald closes the incisions, places drains, and applies a compression garment.

What Can I Expect From My Tummy Tuck Recovery?

Immediately After
Week 1
Week 2
Weeks 3 to 5
Week 6

Immediately After Surgery

You will be groggy for some time following your surgery due to the general anesthesia. Once discharged, you will require a friend or family member to drive you home.

While some patients can return home shortly after their procedure, others may be required to stay overnight for extended care.

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before and after results of a female patient

Before & After Patient #07

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Tummy Tuck FAQ

How much is a tummy tuck in Orange County?

The cost of your abdominoplasty depends on the type of tummy tuck to be performed, anesthesiologist fees, and other procedures that may be added. The best way to receive an individualized quote is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Wald at our Fullerton, California, office.

What is the difference between tummy tuck and liposuction?

A tummy tuck is a comprehensive procedure that removes fat, repairs loose muscles, and tightens loose excess skin. Liposuction is less invasive and can effectively remove unwanted pockets of stubborn fat with suction, but it cannot address loose muscles or excess skin.

How are the core muscles repaired?

During your traditional or extended tummy tuck, Dr. Wald uses permanent sutures made from medical-grade nylon to tighten the abdominal muscles.

Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are non-smokers in overall good health, with excess skin and residual fat after major weight loss or pregnancy. Candidates must have realistic expectations for their procedure.

Can I combine my tummy tuck with other surgical procedures?

Yes, a tummy tuck can be combined with a variety of other cosmetic procedures. Whether you wish to add liposuction, breast procedures (including breast lift, breast augmentation, or breast reduction), or combine several surgeries into a Mommy Makeover, Dr. Wald can help. He’ll work with you to create a customized surgical plan that will offer your desired results.

Will there be visible scarring after tummy tuck surgery?

No matter which type of tummy tuck you choose, there will be a scar after your surgery. However, the incisions for both a traditional and mini tummy tuck are easily hidden by underwear or a bikini bottom. An extended tummy tuck scar is typically also hidden, though it may be partially visible depending on the extent of your surgery.

Will pregnancy affect the results of my tummy tuck surgery?

Yes, pregnancy and significant weight gain will affect the results of your tummy tuck. Your skin will stretch, and stubborn fat may change your slender body contour. Dr. Wald recommends that tummy tuck patients be done having children before undergoing the procedure.

How long will my tummy tuck last?

Abdominoplasty offers permanent results. However, subsequent weight fluctuations or pregnancy will impact your outcome. By incorporating a healthy diet and exercise, you can maintain your slimmer midsection indefinitely.

How do I best prepare for tummy tuck surgery?

Dr. Wald will provide you with specific pre-operative instructions for your tummy tuck surgery, but in general, you will need to do the following:

Stop smoking at least two weeks before your tummy tuck
Refrain from using blood-thinning medications (including ibuprofen)
Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you to and from surgery, as well as stay with you for the first 24 hours after you get home
Prepare a recovery area in your home with everything you need in easy reach (pillows for extra support, electronics and chargers, medications, water, and snacks)
Fill any prescriptions ahead of time and buy any incision care supplies you may need
Arrange for help as needed, as you won’t be able to drive, lift anything heavy, or engage in regular activities for a week or more

Doing as much as you can to prepare for your tummy tuck recovery before your surgery will make it easier on you in the long run.

What are the risks associated with a tummy tuck?

As with any surgical procedure, there are possible risks and complications associated with a tummy tuck, including:

Bleeding and bruising
Excess fluid accumulation (seroma)
Poor healing
Scarring
Adverse reaction to anesthesia
Infection

Learn More About Orange County Tummy Tucks With Our Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in Fullerton

Dr. Wald offers a wide range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures in Fullerton, California, across from St. Jude’s Hospital. Call The Aesthetic Institute today at (714) 312-3549 to learn more or schedule your consultation.