Questions about Abdominoplasty
Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Santa Monica
What is abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty is another name for a tummy tuck. It is a body contouring procedure that removes excess skin from the abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles to give you a more attractive figure.
Is an abdominoplasty right for me?
Abdominoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures performed today because it gives great results for many people. It may be a good procedure for you if:
- You are bothered by a hanging or protruding belly
- Dieting and exercise have not reduced your belly
- Your belly has loose and hanging skin, not just fat
- Your abdominal muscles are slack
- You are close to your ideal weight
- You are in good health overall
It is also best if you are a non-smoker. If you are a smoker, you will be expected to quit smoking temporarily during the pre- and post-surgical period. You can also improve the quality and longevity of your abdominoplasty results by quitting smoking permanently.
The best candidates are also prepared to take an active role in their abdominoplasty, starting with understanding the procedure and its likely results. You can also help yourself get the best possible results by taking an active role in planning your procedure, making all your follow-up appointments, and following postoperative instructions.
What is the difference between abdominoplasty and liposuction?
Abdominoplasty and liposuction are both body contouring procedures, but they are very different. Abdominoplasty is directed at excess skin and slack abdominal muscles, but liposuction is directed at excess fat. If your belly area is mostly made of stubborn fat, liposuction may be used if your skin is in good condition. But if you have excess skin and loose muscles, abdominoplasty is recommended. Liposuction can sometimes be used in combination with abdominoplasty to get the best possible results.
During your personal consultation, Dr. Kim will evaluate your abdomen, listen to your cosmetic goals, and recommend which procedure is right for you.
Are there multiple types of abdominoplasty?
Yes. The two main types of abdominoplasty are the mini and the full abdominoplasty. The mini abdominoplasty removes and tightens skin below the navel, but the full abdominoplasty removes and tightens skin in the full abdomen. Although Dr. Kim performs both types of abdominoplasty, he recommends the full abdominoplasty in most cases because the results are far superior. Except in limited cases, mini abdominoplasty does not give the results patients desire.
Does abdominoplasty remove stretch marks?
Sometimes. Stretch marks are in the skin and represent permanent damage to the dermis. They are most effectively treated by directly removing excess skin. If there are significant amounts of stretch marks it may only be repositioned. Dr. Kim will look at your stretch marks during your consultation and tell you what to expect.
Will I have scars after my abdominoplasty?
Scars are a necessary consequence of surgery, including abdominoplasty. Your abdominoplasty scar will be so low on your abdomen that it will be concealed by most underwear and swimsuits. In fact, women who have a scar from a prior low-transverse c-section incision will have that scar removed and find that their new scar is as low as or lower than that scar.
Is an abdominoplasty painful?
An abdominoplasty is major surgery and is associated with significant discomfort that may last several days or even a couple weeks. In fact, abdominoplasty with Dr. Kim may be more painful than with other doctors, because he aggressively tightens the abdominal muscles. However, you will find that the tradeoff is well worth it because your results will be better in the long run. Discomfort from your abdominoplasty during and after surgery will be controlled with medication, including the use of an infusion pain pump. The infusion pump delivers a steady supply of local anesthesia to control your postoperative discomfort.
Why should I choose E. Kim Plastic Surgery for my abdominoplasty?
Dr. Eugene Kim has developed a technique that enhances the curves of the patient and pays very close attention to detail, including the placement of the incisions as well as the appearance of the belly-button following surgery. He is very comfortable with the abdominoplasty procedure, and is dedicated to ensuring that you get the best result possible from your procedure.
To learn more about what makes E. Kim Plastic Surgery special, please call or email us today for a consultation.
