Sometimes simply dieting and exercising are not enough to take care of waistline problems. In such cases, a patient may wish to consider a Beverly Hills tummy tuck (or abdominoplasty). A tummy tuck is the surgical removal of excess skin or fatty deposits from the abdomen, along with the repositioning of abdomen muscles into a tighter formation. This bodily enhancement procedure is designed for those who wish to have a flatter and tighter abdomen. It is also helpful in remedying the vertical separation of abdominal muscles known as diastasis, which can occur following pregnancy.
Dr. Jimmy S. Firouz is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in tummy tuck procedures. Click here to learn about the difference between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck, both of which Dr. Firouz routinely performs for his patients.
As a cosmetic plastic surgeon, he takes a very customized approach to each tummy tuck he performs, making sure the results he provides each patient with are the best possible results for their individual needs.
Reasons for Selecting the Tummy Tuck Procedure
There are several different reasons patients decide to undergo a tummy tuck. Ultimately, if you are uncomfortable with the appearance of your abdomen and are in good health, you are likely a candidate for a tummy tuck. Below are some of the most common reasons people decided to undergo a tummy tuck:
- Inability of dieting and exercise to improve the abdomen area.
- Excessive accumulation of skin following weight loss.
- Loss of skin elasticity or diastases (loose abdomen muscles) due to pregnancy.
- The removal of unsightly skin and fat deposits as well as the proper alignment of the abdominal muscles to produce a more flattering look.
The Surgery Itself
Tummy tuck surgery lasts anywhere from one to five hours, depending on the desired look and the patient’s unique physiology. To begin the procedure, an incision is made just above the pubic bone area. This incision goes horizontally across the lower abdomen and sometimes around to the back. The skin is then stretched away from the muscle tissue, and excess skin is removed. The abdominal muscles are then tightened to provide a firmly contoured stomach and well-defined waistline. Finally, the incision is closed; and the skin is stitched back into place. Sometimes the procedure requires an additional incision around the navel in order to provide the best results. After Beverly Hills tummy tuck surgery, drainage tubes will be put in place to help with swelling and get rid of excess fluid.
Tummy Tuck Recovery for our Beverly Hills patients
Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time. As the body recuperates, the patient can expect some swelling, pain, and discomfort. Medication can be prescribed to relieve any pain caused by the procedure. Normal activities can generally be resumed within two weeks. It may take up to a year for the body to completely adapt to the new abdominal configuration. With proper diet and exercise the striking results of the surgery will be long lasting.
Select a Board-Certified Tummy Tuck Plastic Surgeon
To learn more about the tummy tuck procedure or how it is performed by board-certified plastic tummy tuck surgeon Dr. Firouz, contact our office.