Tummy Tuck in Orange County

A flabby abdomen and loose skin can be difficult to correct through diet and exercise, making it challenging to attain the firm, attractive contours around your midsection you desire.

A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a highly effective surgical procedure designed to improve troublesome issues caused by significant weight loss, pregnancy, and age.

Dr. Robert Wald is a double board-certified plastic surgeon providing tummy tuck surgery in Orange County at his fully accredited surgical center in Fullerton, California.

The Aesthetic Institute offers an ideal setting for your tummy tuck consultation, surgery, initial recovery, and follow-up visits.

What Are the Benefits of Abdominoplasty?

A tummy tuck is a comprehensive cosmetic surgery that addresses several areas of concern to deliver dramatic results. Here are a few of the benefits abdominoplasty has to offer:

Eliminates Stubborn Residual Fat

A tummy tuck involves trimming and toning the abdominal area by removing stubborn pockets of fat for patients with excess fat after considerable weight loss or a recent pregnancy.

Removal of residual fat during a tummy tuck may involve liposuction, excision, or a combination of both.

Repairs Loose Abdominal Muscles

Abdominal (core) muscles can separate for several reasons (often during pregnancy).

During a tummy tuck, Dr. Wald can tighten the core muscles to create a firmer, more fit-appearing abdominal contour.

Tightens Loose, Excess Skin

One of the primary reasons to undergo an abdominoplasty is to eliminate excess skin around the torso.

This extra skin and any stretch marks in the area are removed, further slimming your waist and adding definition to your figure or physique.

Offers Customized Options

Three types of abdominoplasty are available: traditional, mini, and extended tummy tuck. If you are concerned about loose skin and stubborn residual fat, one of these options can help.

Other breast and body procedures can be added, such as breast augmentation or a lift for a Mommy Makeover.

What Are My Tummy Tuck Options?

Dr. Wald typically performs tummy tuck surgery under general anesthesia, and, depending on the option that’s right for you, the procedure can last between two and three hours.

Traditional Tummy Tuck

An incision is made just above the pubic area extending from hip bone to hip bone. A second incision is often made around the navel to reposition or recreate the belly button. A traditional tummy tuck involves the following five steps:

Separating adipose tissue from the abdominal wall and removing stubborn pockets of fat
Pulling loose abdominal muscles together and securing them with permanent sutures
Recontouring the belly and waist by trimming away excess skin, then placing it back over the abdominal area for a firmer, tighter, slimmer appearance
Creating a new navel to match your toned abdomen
Closing your incisions, placing drains to eliminate fluid buildup, and applying a compression garment to minimize swelling

Mini Tummy Tuck

Mini tummy tucks treat patients with poor skin elasticity and localized fat below the belly button. A shorter incision is made, fat is removed, and a smaller amount of skin is removed to tighten the lower abdomen.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck is best for patients with excess skin after major weight loss, often following bariatric surgery. The sagging skin may extend to the hips and back, requiring more extensive correction and longer or additional incisions.

You've just had a Tummy Tuck! Now what?

After a Tummy Tuck, most patients experience the following in terms of the recovery timeline:

Immediately After
Week 1
Week 2
Weeks 3 to 5
Week 6

Immediately After

Patients are usually groggy for some time following their surgery due to the general anesthesia. Once discharged, they will require a friend or family member to drive them home.

While some patients can return home shortly after their procedure, others may be required to stay overnight for extended care.

What Is the Recovery From Abdominoplasty Like?

Immediately After

Patients are usually groggy for some time following their surgery due to the general anesthesia. Once discharged, they will require a friend or family member to drive them home.

While some patients can return home shortly after their procedure, others may be required to stay overnight for extended care.

Recovery Week 1

Patients need help with self-care for two to three days. They should have a comfortable resting place, drink plenty of water, and take short, gentle walks.

Recovery Week 2

Most patients can resume non-physically demanding jobs by the end of the second week but must continue to avoid strenuous activities.

Recovery Weeks 3 to 5

Swelling and bruising will have subsided significantly between the third and fifth week, and clearer results should be visible. You may be permitted to resume more rigorous activities and exercise.

Recovery Week 6

Some minor swelling may persist for another few weeks, during which time results will continue to improve.

View Video Gallery

before and after results of a female patient

Before & After Patient #07

View Photo Gallery

Tummy Tuck FAQ

How much is a tummy tuck in Orange County?

The cost of your abdominoplasty depends on the type of tummy tuck to be performed, anesthesiologist fees, and other procedures that may be added. The best way to receive an individualized quote is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Wald at our Fullerton, California, office.

What is the difference between tummy tuck and liposuction?

A tummy tuck is a comprehensive procedure that removes fat, repairs loose muscles, and tightens loose excess skin. Liposuction is less invasive and can effectively remove unwanted pockets of stubborn fat with suction, but it cannot address loose muscles or excess skin.

How are the core muscles repaired?

During your traditional or extended tummy tuck, Dr. Wald uses permanent sutures made from medical-grade nylon to tighten the abdominal muscles.

Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?

The best candidates for abdominoplasty are non-smokers in overall good health, with excess skin and residual fat after major weight loss or pregnancy. Candidates must have realistic expectations for their procedure.

How long will my tummy tuck last?

Abdominoplasty offers permanent results. However, subsequent weight fluctuations or pregnancy will impact your outcome. By incorporating a healthy diet and exercise, you can maintain your slimmer midsection indefinitely.

What are the risks of abdominoplasty?

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure, and possible complications include:

Bleeding and bruising
Excess fluid accumulation (seroma)
Poor healing
Scarring
Adverse reaction to anesthesia
Infection

Orange County Tummy Tuck With Our Fullerton Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Wald offers a wide range of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures in Fullerton, California, across from St. Jude’s Hospital. Call The Aesthetic Institute today at (714) 312-3549 to learn more or schedule your consultation.