What is a Tummy Tuck?

Sometimes, the muscles that run down the middle of the abdomen (your “abs”) get stretched and separate, this is known as diastasis recti. Occasionally, (often during pregnancy), these “6-pack” muscles can stretch in a way that no exercise can restore. When this happens, an abdominoplasty, or more commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, can help. A tummy tuck is when a plastic surgeon:

1. Removes excess skin and tightens it

2. Removes some subcutaneous fat (fat under the skin that is virtually resistant to diet and exercise)

3. Tightens the rectus abdominis – The surgeon sutures the separated rectus abdominis muscles back into place.

This results in a flatter abdomen that may also feel stronger to the patient as their stomach muscles have been restored.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck is a fairly major surgery so the tummy tuck patient should be in good health. This procedure can benefit women after being pregnant and men or women who have sagging abdominal skin due to weight loss or aging.  Dr. Chasan typically suggests this surgery for those who have separated abdominal muscles and are concerned about their protruding tummy.  Some patients who are dealing with too much abdominal fat but not separated muscles or excess skin, may have a tummy tuck to achieve desired results. A tummy tuck is also common as part of a Mommy Makeover.

Will a Tummy Tuck Leave a Scar?

Yes, there is always a scar after a tummy tuck however, Dr. Chasan is relentless in his pursuit to leave the least visible scar as possible. In fact, he uses a technique called progressive tension suturing to leave the least scarring possible. The scar will sit low under the belly, in an area typically covered by underwear or a bikini bottom. Dr. Chasan believes that the scar at about 6 months post tummy tuck surgery should look like nothing more than a panty crease. Dr. Chasan will explain his unique method to reduce scaring during your consultation with him.

What is Recovery Like for a Tummy Tuck?

Most patients who have a tummy tuck under Dr. Chasan are back to their normal routines within about 2 weeks but it is recommended to stick to minimal activity for a month while the surgical area is healing.

How is Liposuction Different than a Tummy Tuck?

An abdominal liposuction is a less invasive procedure that targets subcutaneous fat sitting under the skin and on top of the abdominal wall. This fat is virtually impossible to get rid of naturally. Liposuction is when the fatty area is injected with a saline solution, a small incision is made and a cannula tube attached to a vacuum is inserted. Dr. Chasan then moves the wand rapidly to break up the fat and it is then vacuumed out of the abdominal area. Many patients choose to add liposuction to augment a tummy tuck.

What Can’t Liposuction Accomplish? Why Choose a Tummy Tuck Over Lipo?

Liposuction successfully removes fat. It does not tighten the skin, nor does it tighten the abdominal muscles. It is a much less invasive procedure with an easier recovery. Based on the patient’s anatomy, Dr. Chasan will steer patients towards liposuction in San Diego over a tummy tuck if their cosmetic goals align with what the procedure is designed to accomplish.

Ready to Schedule a Consultation?

To learn more about our stomach slimming procedures including liposuction and a tummy tuck cost, please contact us at Del Mar’s Ranch and Coast Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation today.

Tummy Tuck Information