Tummy Tuck

What is a Tummy Tuck?
There are a number of different tummy tuck procedures, varying from a full to a mini-tummy tuck. Generally, an abdominoplasty surgical procedure involves making an incision beneath the bikini line. The surgeon carefully tightens the weakened abdominal muscles by using sutures. After the muscles are tightened, excess tissue and skin are removed. This full tummy tuck procedure typically is used for patients that have extensive abdominal muscle weakening.

For individuals who have lost significant amounts of weight (post bariatric surgery patients), a panniculectomy and or a full body lift might be recommended. A panniculectomy removes hanging fat and skin and may be combined with a tummy tuck.

For those patients who are good candidates for abdomen liposuction to remove excess fat, a mini or partial tummy tuck may be performed. This procedure differs from a full abdominoplasty as a smaller incision is made to tighten the abdominal muscles.

Mini (Partial) Tummy Tuck

What is the difference between a “full” tummy tuck versus a “mini” tummy tuck? Ideally patients that benefit from a partial abdominoplasty, (mini-tummy tuck), are those who DO NOT have large folds of loose, hanging skin and fat, but have a small to moderate amount of hanging skin.

Who is a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck/Abdominoplasty?

Men and women who have gained and lost a moderate amount of weight are possible candidates for a mini tummy tuck as the abdominal skin has lost elasticity with weight fluctuations. The best candidates are men or women who are in good health and have small amount of fat deposits on their belly with moderate degree of excess skin folds.

Women and men who have gained and lost a significant amount weight and who have a large amount of hanging skin around their abdomen are also good candidates. Women who have gained weight during their pregnancy often desire to have their stomach returned to it’s pre-pregnancy shape. During pregnancy, as the baby grows, the abdominal muscle begins to separate to accommodate the growth of the baby in the uterus. For many women their abdominal wall may return to a normal state after delivery, but for some a visible abdominal pouch and loose, sagging skin, often with stretch marks, remains.

Unfortunately, for these women, no amount of exercise or dieting will improve their abdomen. This popular tummy tuck procedure is often referred to as a “Mommy Makeover.”

What Results Can I Expect from a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck can dramatically improve your appearance by eliminating a protruding abdomen along with excess drooping skin and fat. If you have had a significant weight loss, or have excess skin from multiple pregnancies, or for those individuals who have stretched their abdominal muscle or have weakened the muscle, a tummy tuck can help.

Call us for a consultation at (310) 272-5895 at our Beverly Hills location. We’ll discuss life-changing solutions you can start using today – and you’ll personally experience the science of youthful aging!