Cosmetic - Body Contouring

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

A 'Tummy Tuck' or 'abdominoplasty' removes excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles

This procedure improves the contour of the abdomen by flattening the protruding belly which develops from aging, obesity or after pregnancy. The best candidates are in relatively good shape but have excess fat, loose skin and flaccid muscles in the lower abdomen. For best results, patients who are somewhat overweight should attempt to lose weight prior to the procedure.

An abdominoplasty may be particularly useful for patients who have lost abdominal tone after pregnancy. Also, this procedure is beneficial for patients who have lost large amounts of weight from dieting and exercising and are left with loose skin and muscles.

An abdominoplasty procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and often requires an overnight stay at our monitored cosmetic facility. An incision is made above the pubic area in the "bikini line" and may extend laterally to the hip. A second incision is typically made around the belly button (umbilicus) to completely free the excess skin and fat so that it may be removed. The remaining skin is stretched down to flatten the abdomen. Then, the belly button is properly positioned. Muscle tightening is also performed by suturing prior to closure.

A "Mini-abdominoplasty" may be used in patients with modest amount of abdominal laxity and excess skin. This procedure involves a smaller incision, may be done as an outpatient and recover time is lessened.

Postoperatively, an abdominal binder is worn for several days to weeks for support. Pain is controlled by medication and drainage tubes are removed several days after the procedure. Typically patients return to work in 2 to 3 weeks. Scars may take time to fade but are hidden by undergarments or a bathing suit.

Tour our photo gallery >>

View tummy tuck surgery in 3D >>

Los Angeles plastic surgeons from UCLA Plastic Surgery offer all aspects of body contouring surgery including liposuction, tummy tuck surgery, and body lift - Surgery after massive weight loss. View before and after photos of these plastic surgery procedures, learn more about cosmetic surgery and schedule a consultation today.

These Los Angeles plastic surgeons serve areas throughout Southern California. Read about Timothy Miller, Henry Kawamoto, Joan Lipa, Jaco Festekjian, Andrew Da Lio, James Bradley and Prosper Benhaim and Christopher Crisera Jay Granzow and J. Brian Boyd.

Contact these Los Angeles plastic surgeons for a tummy tuck today.
Phone: 800-825-2752

UCLA Cosmetic Surgery Center
UCLA Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
200 UCLA Medical Plaza, Suite 465
Los Angeles, CA 90095-6960