How is a Tummy Tuck Performed?

Your tummy tuck procedure goals will be discussed realistically with Santa Clarita plastic surgeon Dr. Hu. Together you will decide which procedures Dr. Hu will perform to achieve your desired results. You will set a date for surgery and be given instructions regarding how to prepare for the procedure.
Valencia plastic surgeon Dr. Hu will perform one of two tummy tuck procedures:
• A full abdominoplasty
• A mini-tummy tuck
Which technique is used will depend on the amount of excess fat and skin you possess. Patients with little to no skin excess and a modest amount of fat would qualify for a mini-tummy tuck. This operation involves a smaller incision, often just slightly longer than a typical C-section scar. Liposuction of the abdominal area is often performed in conjunction with a mini-tummy tuck. Skin and fat is removed, although belly button is left in place, so there is no scar around it. Typically, a single drain will be placed, which is usually removed a week following surgery.
For patients with more excess skin, patients with lots of stretch marks, or for patients who would just like to see more dramatic results, a full abdominoplasty in Valencia procedure would be a better option. It is a more extensive surgery, but is a more thorough and effective technique to reduce your abdomen size.
During the full tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Hu will perform a plication of the rectus muscles. Women who have had children or who have had massive weight loss will often feel their stomach is still sticking out. This is often the result of diastasis, or stretching, of the abdominal wall muscles. No amount of exercise can ever correct this, although no doubt many try. However, by suturing the muscles back together, Dr. Hu can correct the diastasis and help the patient achieve a flatter profile, one more resembling how the patient may have looked before having children. Additionally, Dr. Hu often performs liposuction in conjunction with your tummy tuck, especially of the flank, or “muffin top,” area. Like with the mini-tummy tuck, drains will be placed.
With both procedures, the patient will be placed in an abdominal binder. After monitoring to insure the patient has recovered safely, the patient will be allowed home. The patient will be seen the next day for a quick follow-up.
Call Valencia Plastic Surgery today at 661-222-1122 or go to www.valenciasurgery.com.