What scars are left from a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck will leave scars, but the length of the scar will vary, based upon what was needed in your case. The surgical scar is located on the lower abdomen, horizontally, around the belly button, or in some cases, an added vertical scar, all of which are invisible when wearing clothing. The scar should begin to fade within about six months. When planning your tummy tuck, you will be fully educated about what to expect regarding scarring in your custom procedure.
What will my tummy look like after the surgery?
The results are a flat, firm tummy, free from any excess saggy skin, tissue, and fat. You should feel very comfortable when wearing tight tops and pants, which will fit snugly and attractively over your newly-sculpted body.
What are the risks of undergoing a tummy tuck?
All surgeries carry some risk. When under the care of Dr. Casper and his team of medical professionals, you can be confident that we employ stringent health and safety procedures in performing surgery. The risks include fluid buildup, scar asymmetry, or numbness. More serious (but very rare) risks may include infection, blood clots, or excessive bleeding.
How do I choose the right plastic surgeon for a tummy tuck?
When looking for a tummy tuck surgeon in Los Angeles, there are several points to carefully review. These include:
- Board-certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgeons
- Number of years in practice
- Professional standing in the medical community
- Five-star rating on RealSelf
- Many very positive patient reviews
The next step is to meet the plastic surgeon in person. A successful plastic surgery is a team effort between doctor and patient, and it is important that you feel comfortable with your surgeon. Dr. Daniel Casper is a highly-respected plastic surgeon with over three decades of experience. He serves as Chief of Plastic Surgery at Huntington Hospital in Pasadena and has garnered an international reputation for excellence for his surgical work.
Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Good candidates for a tummy tuck in Los Angeles typically include individuals with excess abdominal skin or weakened muscles after pregnancy or significant weight loss. You should be in good overall health, a non-smoker, and close to your ideal weight. A consultation with Dr. Casper will determine whether the procedure is appropriate for your goals.
What is the recovery like after a tummy tuck?
You’ll likely need 10 to 14 days of downtime after surgery, with most patients returning to light activities within two weeks. A compression garment will be worn to minimize swelling and support healing. Full results take shape over several weeks as your body recovers and the swelling subsides.
Can a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?
Yes—if your stretch marks are located on the excess skin being removed, they will be eliminated as part of the procedure. However, a tummy tuck in Los Angeles is not specifically designed to treat stretch marks. Any marks above the incision line will likely remain, though they may be less noticeable after surgery.
Will my results be permanent?
The results of your tummy tuck can be long-lasting if you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Future pregnancies or significant weight fluctuations may affect your outcome. Patients who follow a balanced diet and exercise routine typically enjoy their results for many years.