Tummy Tuck

Have diet and exercise failed to give you the flat, tight abdomen you long for? Look no further. Dr. Barnes is a cosmetic surgeon who performs tummy tucks with expert precision and excellent results. To book a consultation about having a tummy tuck, call the friendly staff at Dr. Thomas Barnes, MD, in Newport Beach, California, or book an appointment online today.

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to improve the appearance of your abdominal area by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the underlying muscles. If you're wondering whether you're a suitable candidate for a tummy tuck, how the procedure works, and what to expect during recovery, Dr. Barnes can answer your questions.

Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?

You might be a suitable candidate for a tummy tuck if you have:

• Loose, sagging skin around your abdomen due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging
• Weakened abdominal muscles that create a protruding belly
• Good health (no medical conditions that could interfere with the healing process)
• Realistic expectations about the results of the procedure

During your consultation, Dr. Barnes can help determine if a tummy tuck is right for you.

How does a tummy tuck procedure work?

A tummy tuck procedure involves several steps, including:

Anesthesia

Dr. Barnes offers awake treatment with Pro-Nox™(laughing gas) as well as twilight sleep treatment to ensure your comfort during the surgery.

Incisions

Dr. Barnes makes incisions along your lower abdomen, typically from hip to hip. The extent of the incision may vary based on the amount of excess skin and fat to be removed.

Muscle repair

If your abdominal muscles are separated or weakened, Dr. Barnes tightens and sutures them to create a firmer and flatter abdominal contour.

Excess tissue removal

Dr. Barnes removes excess skin and fat, contouring your abdominal area for a more streamlined appearance.

Navel adjustment

In some cases, the navel may need to be repositioned to maintain a natural look after excess skin removal.

The last step is to close the incisions carefully using sutures and sometimes surgical tape or adhesive to reduce scarring.

What is recovery from a tummy tuck like?

After your procedure, your recovery process includes:

• Hospital stay (a day or two)
• Initial discomfort (swelling and bruising)
• Restricted activities (no strenuous exercise for several weeks)
• Follow-up appointments

You should notice an immediate improvement in your abdominal contour, but the final results become more apparent as swelling subsides over the following months.

Dr. Barnes can consult with you to help you determine if a tummy tuck is right for you. To learn more, book an appointment today by phone or online.