Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

Abdominoplasty, also referred to as a "tummy tuck", is a fairly common procedure today; thousands of men and women have tummy tucks every year. This procedure often entails the tightening of stomach muscles and the strengthening of the abdominal walls. The goal of an abdominoplasty is to: (1) correct a protruding abdomen by removing fat and excess skin and (2) tighten skin that has lost elasticity, due to pregnancy or significant weight loss, and does not respond to diet and exercise.

Full and Partial Abdominoplasty

There are two types of tummy tucks. The first (and most common) type is the full abdominoplasty. During a full abdominoplasty, Dr. Daniel Golshani, a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon, will make an incision from hipbone to hipbone, just below the "bikini" or "boxer" line. Another incision is also done to free the navel from any surrounding tissue.

"Not only did I get a Tummy Tuck, but Dr. Golshani was kind enough to give me some health tips on how to lose additional weight that I have been struggling with for years. With his plan on how to eat, I have now lost 20 pounds and I'm still counting! I have a completely new positive attitude about diet and exercise. It has been great fun to wear new clothes that fit just right!"

— Yolanda

The skin and excess fat are then separated from the abdominal wall to reveal the underlying muscles. The abdominal muscles are pulled closer together and stitched into place, tightening the abdomen and resulting in a leaner physique. The navel is repositioned and stitched into place. Unwanted skin is removed and the remaining skin is stretched into place.

The second kind of tummy tuck is a partial abdominoplasty or a mini-tummy tuck. A mini-tummy tuck is typically for people who have the majority of unwanted fat in the lower area of their stomach. During this procedure, the incision will be much shorter in length and the skin will only be separated from the "bikini" or "brief" line to the navel.

Where do I begin?

Whether you have a personal desire to improve your appearance or improve how you feel about yourself, a consultation with Dr. Golshani is your first step. Make sure to carefully plan your surgery with Dr. Golshani. Together, discuss:

Your medical history
Any medications you're currently taking
Your unique body contour
The current condition of your abdominal region
The proper procedure you need
And optimistic, reasonable expectations.

If you smoke, plan to abstain from smoking for at least two weeks before and after your surgery. Smoking increases your level of risk during surgery and lengthens healing time after the procedure.

Preparing for Surgery

Dr. Golshani will carefully explain the surgical procedure recommended for your case. Prior to surgery, you will be given specific instructions regarding pre-operative medical treatments, diagnostic testing, day of surgery procedures, postoperative care, and follow-up information. In addition, you will be asked to sign consent forms to assure Dr. Golshani that you fully understand the procedure that you will undergo and any potential risks or complications related to your procedure.

Progress and Healing

A full abdominoplasty usually takes two to five hours, while a partial abdominoplasty usually only takes about one to two hours. And, depending on factors like the health of a patient and the scale of the procedure, a patient may have to stay in the hospital for two to three days or may be released in just a few hours.

Surface stitching will be removed in five to seven days and deeper sutures should come out in about a week or two. Recovery will vary from person to person. Some will return to work within two weeks after the surgery, while others will take three to four weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be able to move after the abdominoplasty surgery?

Standing up straight may be difficult as first, but a patient should attempt to start walking as soon as possible. Movement and exercise promotes healing and may help you feel better. Exercise may also reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscle. A patient should consult Dr. Golshani for specific movements and exercises to achieve the best results.

How bad will the scars be after a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks do produce permanent scars. The extent of scarring will vary and depends on the patient's unique body contour, the original condition of the patient's abdominal region, and the procedures done on the patient.

Scars may appear to worsen during the first three to six months after the operation. This is normal and should be expected. However, in nine months to a year, scars flatten out and lighten in color.