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Tummy Tuck

Sometimes, despite your best efforts to eat healthy and exercise, you may not see the toned, flat abdomen you’ve worked so hard for. Women who have given birth face a unique set of challenges when it comes to obtaining a firm tummy. Patients from all walks of life can suffer from excess skin or weakened abdominal muscles. This may be caused by aging, your natural body type, dramatic weight loss, or pregnancy. For many, the comprehensive results of a tummy tuck can offer life-changing improvements to their body and self-confidence.

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Newport Beach Tummy Tuck Patient of Dr. Larry Nichter Shares Her Story

Summary:

  • Michelle, a 45-year-old single mother, struggled with weight loss, particularly in her stomach area, after raising her children.
  • Initially, she prioritized providing for her family over addressing her own self-consciousness about her stomach.
  • After accompanying a friend to a consultation for a tummy tuck with Dr. Larry Nichter, Michelle realized it wasn’t just about vanity but about feeling good about oneself. She reflects on her cultural upbringing, in which family needs were prioritized over personal appearance
  • Michelle reflects on her cultural upbringing where family needs were prioritized over personal appearance.
  • Despite challenges, including training for an Ironman competition, Michelle decided to undergo surgery and experienced a significant improvement in her confidence and physical appearance, particularly noticing the difference when returning to athletic activities like swimming and biking.

Transcript:

(00:00) Hi, my name is Michelle, and I’m 45 years old. I raised my children as a single mom. After the divorce, I had lost a lot of weight. Unfortunately, the one area where I could not lose the weight was my stomach area. In raising my children, the most important thing was making sure that they had a roof over their heads, food in their mouths, and a lot of support. Although I was very self-conscious about my stomach, it wasn’t a priority based on where we were financially. A girlfriend of mine had a consultation and asked me to take her.

(00:29) When I saw what was going on, I realized that it wasn’t about vanity, it was about feeling good about yourself and who you were inside, and I felt so bad that I criticized her and ridiculed her for wanting to do these things. Culturally, where I come from, that’s one of the last things you think about, you think about your family first. You think about your children, and you think about trying to get them to that next level, that you’re you weren’t at. I always had them in activities every season of every year. I was the team mom on every single team.

(01:02) I was there every Saturday for the young Marines. I was always active in my younger years, but it brought me back to that point because there were many times for us on the field during practice. I would spend an hour going around the track when I started walking. On the swim team, they were swimming, and I didn’t know how to swim. In the dive pool just down the way from where they were, I was kicking with a kickboard, and then I taught myself how to swim. So, I signed up for an Iron Man. An Iron Man consists of a 2.4-mile swim,

(01:30) 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. I would get up at four o’clock in the morning, do my training, I’d leave to go to work, 12 to 14 hours a day. With the type of athletic wear that we have to wear, being bent over in aero bars for an extended period of time, four or five, six hours on your bike seat, and then you’re trying to pump your legs to be faster or stronger to climb a hill, and there’s this thing in the way. It really is just like this mass in the middle of your belly. When I talked to Dr. Nichter and I

(01:58) found him, that was one thing we had to discuss was how quickly will I recover? And what things do I need to do so that I can get back in the water right away, get back on my bike, and start running? I wasn’t sure how much of a difference it would make until after the surgery, when I was ready to get back into training, I sat on my bike, and I had to get refit because it was just so different. What was most amazing after the surgery and being able to put on normal clothes was the feel of the clothes around my waist and my hips.

(02:26) I practically cried when I put a bathing suit on for the first time because I hadn’t looked like that in 20 years.

Edited for clarity and ease of reading. 

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that addresses excess skin and fat in the abdominal area. The goal is to tighten and contour the appearance of your abdomen. Tummy tucks are performed alone or in combination with other procedures like liposuction for optimal results. They can also be part of a larger transformation journey after weight loss, a body lift, or pregnancy in a mommy makeover.

During your consultation, your surgeon will listen carefully to your goals and perform an examination so they can help you develop a treatment plan tailored to your needs. They will answer any questions you have and explain what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.

At the Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, our tummy tuck procedure has helped thousands of patients achieve their desired results and improve their confidence. As board-certified plastic surgeons with decades of combined experience, we aim to deliver the best care, from consultation to post-op. We also want your treatment to be accessible and affordable. That’s why we offer various financing options, which we are happy to discuss with you during your consultation. 

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Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can be a life-changing procedure for many people, both physically and emotionally.

Physical Benefits

  • A flatter, more toned abdomen: This is the most obvious benefit of a tummy tuck. By removing excess fat and tightening the loose skin muscles, a tummy tuck can give you a flatter, more toned abdomen.
  • Improved self-confidence: Many people who have a tummy tuck feel more confident about their appearance. This can lead to improved self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • A more defined waistline: A tummy tuck can help create a more defined waistline. This is especially beneficial for people who have lost a lot of weight and are left with loose skin.
  • Reduced back pain: For some people, excess abdominal fat can contribute to back pain. A tummy tuck can help to alleviate this pain by removing excess fat.
  • Improved clothing fit: After a full tummy tuck, your clothes will fit better and feel more comfortable in them.

Emotional Benefits

  • Increased self-confidence: As mentioned above, a tummy tuck can help to boost your self-confidence. A boost in self-confidence can lead to improved relationships, both personal and professional.
  • Improved body image: A tummy tuck can help you to feel better about your body image. This can be especially beneficial for people who have struggled with body image issues in the past.
  • Reduced stress: Feeling good about your appearance can help to reduce stress levels. Lower stress levels lead to improved overall health and well-being.

If you are considering a tummy tuck, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations.

Types of Tummy Tucks

A tummy tuck isn’t a one-fits-all solution. Different types of tummy tucks cater to different needs and body types. Let’s dive into the primary types:

Traditional Tummy Tuck

One of the most popular tummy tucks is designed for those with significant excess skin and muscle separation. Traditional tummy tucks involve removing excess skin and fat, tightening the abdominal muscles, and repositioning the belly button. It’s the apt solution for those who’ve lost a major amount of weight or have weakened abdominal muscles.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A less invasive option, the mini tummy tuck targets loose skin and fat in the lower abdomen. It’s perfect for individuals with a smaller amount of excess skin and a tighter abdominal muscle wall. This procedure doesn’t involve repositioning the belly button, resulting in a quicker recovery time.

Extended Tummy Tuck

This procedure addresses excess skin and fat in the abdomen, flanks, and back. It’s ideal for people who have experienced significant weight loss or who have loose skin and fat in these areas.

Circumferential Abdominoplasty

A comprehensive approach, this procedure addresses excess skin and fat around the entire midsection, including the abdomen, flanks, and back. Circumferential Abdominoplasty is the go-to option for those who’ve lost a significant amount of weight and have excess fat and skin in multiple areas.

Selecting the right tummy tuck depends on various factors, including your specific needs, body type, and desired outcome. A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon will help you determine the best procedure for you. They’ll assess your body, discuss your goals, and recommend the most suitable approach.

Connect with the Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery to speak with a board-certified surgeon and get the best treatment for you.

Why Choose Us for Tummy Tuck

The Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery understands the transformative power of a tummy tuck. Our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Larry Nichter and Dr. Jed Horowitz, are seasoned experts who craft personalized procedures to help you achieve your dream results. Our team brings nearly 100 years of knowledge and skills. We prioritize comprehensive consultations, open communication, and detailed care throughout your journey. Be it sculpting a flatter abdomen or boosting your confidence, Pacific Center is your trusted partner for a tummy tuck experience that exceeds expectations.

Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation in Newport Beach Today

When it comes to a surgery like a tummy tuck, selecting the right doctor is key. At the Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery, you’ll find board-certified expert professionals who’ll listen to your goals and get you the desired results. Schedule your tummy tuck Newport Beach consultation now.

Learn More About Tummy Tuck

Let’s address some common tummy tuck FAQs to get more clarity about the surgery.

Your surgeon will likely perform your tummy tuck under general anesthesia to maximize your comfort. Typically, tummy tuck surgery takes between two and five hours.

During your tummy tuck, one of our world-class plastic surgeons will carefully make an incision along your lower abdomen, which will be located beneath your bikini line to minimize visible scarring. Next, they will remove excess fat and skin to flatten the appearance of your abdominal area.

Your surgeon may also tighten your underlying abdominal muscles. Depending on your cosmetic needs and desired results, they may also use multiple liposuction techniques during your tummy tuck. There are several different tummy tuck techniques available, and our expert surgeons at the Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery can recommend the procedure that is right for you during your consultation. The types of tummy tuck procedures include:

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck targets the central area between your belly button and pubic area, where excess skin and fat tend to gather in a “pooch.” This cosmetic surgical procedure is less extensive than a traditional abdominoplasty, so your recovery may be quicker. The incision is made just above your pubic area.

Standard Tummy Tuck

A traditional or full tummy tuck procedure treats a larger area than the mini. Your surgeon will remove excess tissue and tighten skin and damaged muscles for a slimmer appearance throughout the abdomen. A standard tummy tuck usually requires a longer incision made from hip to hip below the bikini line and sometimes also involves a second incision around the belly button.

Extended Tummy Tuck

For patients who also want to address excess fat around the flanks and “love handles,” an extended tummy tuck may be needed. In this procedure, the incision is similar to that of a standard tummy tuck but extends to the sides of the hips as well.

After your abdominoplasty, our surgical team will monitor you in a recovery room until the anesthesia wears off. In most cases, you can go home on the day of the surgery with the help of a spouse, friend, or family member. We also recommend they stay with you for at least your first night and possibly longer to help with childcare or routine chores while you heal.

Your recovery time will depend on the extent of your procedure and the techniques used. Most patients need one to two weeks of rest before returning to work and regular activities. However, with today’s work-from-home culture, you may not need to take as much time off of work. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and general discomfort during your healing process. If needed, your surgeon can prescribe pain medication.

You may need to wear a support garment for several weeks after your tummy tuck surgery. This can aid in the healing process and help in forming your new shape. During recovery, you should avoid body positions that strain your incision. It’s important to closely follow the aftercare instructions from your surgeon to ensure the best results.

You should start seeing improvements as your swelling fades, which may take a few weeks to several months. After your swelling disappears, you can enjoy a flatter, more toned abdomen free of sagging skin. After the procedure, our tummy tuck patients often report feeling more confident when wearing tight clothing, bathing suits, or going shirtless.

Although tummy tuck surgery does not guarantee lifetime results, the effects are long-lasting as long as you maintain a stable weight. You should practice a healthy diet and exercise routine to prolong your results. 

Both men and women can benefit from a tummy tuck to address excess skin and sagging tissue on the abdomen. The best candidates are within their ideal weight range and have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or less. Tummy tuck patients should also have realistic expectations about the procedure. Remember that an abdominoplasty is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise.

The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for tummy tucks is to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified surgeons. Our experts will be honest about the pros and cons of this treatment option to help you decide if it’s right for you.

The cost of tummy tucks varies depending on your geographic location and your provider’s experience. On average, abdominoplasty procedures in the United States cost $6,154, not including all associated expenses like anesthesia and facility fees.

This is only a rough estimate; your actual cost will be based on your unique procedure and its complexity. Whether your tummy tuck involves liposuction or is combined with other procedures will also affect the price. For a more accurate cost estimate, we encourage you to consult with one of our tummy tuck Newport Beach surgeons.

Like any surgery, tummy tuck involves some discomfort during the healing process. However, modern surgical techniques and pain management strategies significantly minimize pain.

Initially, you can experience soreness, swelling, and bruising. Your surgeon will provide pain medication to manage these symptoms. As you heal, the discomfort gradually subsides.

But everyone’s pain tolerance is different. Talk to your surgeon to ensure you’re well-prepared and comfortable throughout your recovery journey.

Before your tummy tuck, you’ll have a consultation with your plastic surgeon. They’ll discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have. You’ll also undergo a physical exam to assess your overall health and suitability for the procedure.

Your surgeon can request specific tests, such as blood work or an EKG, to ensure you’re healthy enough for surgery. You may also need to adjust certain medications or stop smoking in advance.

Following your surgeon’s pre-operative instructions is important for a smooth procedure and a successful recovery.

While a tummy tuck is generally safe, like any surgery, it carries potential risks. These include bleeding, infection, scarring, and adverse reactions to anesthesia. However, these risks are minimized when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon in a reputable facility like the Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery.

It’s quite important to discuss these risks with your surgeon during your consultation. They’ll explain the potential complications and steps to minimize them. Learn about these risks so you can make an informed decision if a tummy tuck is right for you.

Here are some general tips that you can follow to select the right tummy tuck surgeon in Newport Beach:

  • Board Certification: Look for surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
  • Experience: Choose a surgeon with extensive experience in tummy tuck procedures.
  • Reviews: Read online reviews and ask people for references.
  • Consultation: Schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and expectations and see if you feel comfortable with the surgeon’s communication style.
  • Before-and-After Photos: Review the surgeon’s before-and-after photos to see their typical results.

To make things easier, book a consultation with a Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery surgeon. They’re experienced, well-versed in the procedure, and have performed many successful surgeries.

Take the Next Step

As soon as you step into our Newport Beach office, our welcoming staff will carefully listen to your concerns and guide you through your treatment journey. The board-certified plastic surgeons at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery will be happy to discuss your cosmetic goals, review the pros and cons of the treatment you are considering, and create a personalized treatment plan that will deliver the best outcome for you. 

To learn more about tummy tucks and the innovative treatments offered at Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery in Newport Beach, CA, contact our office by calling (949) 617-1168 or by filling out the consultation request form below.

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Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

Hear What Our Patients
Have to Say…

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Everything I hoped for and more!”

“What can I say about my experience here… It was amazing! Everything I hoped for and more! Not only is Dr. Nichter a perfectionist, he’s also an expert at what he does! I am very pleased with my results! All of his support staff are amazing as well! Everyone makes you feel so welcome and cared for.”*

Laura M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“10/10 recommend coming here…”

“The whole process was so easy and I was so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend coming here, don’t even second guess it, you’re at the right place!!! I went to multiple appointments at other surgeons and nothing comes close to how professional and amazing this office is.”*

Dominica F. (Yelp Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“I couldn’t be more satisfied.”

“Dr. Horowitz is an amazing plastic surgeon who makes everything look so natural and beautiful. He is very kind, artistic and works magic. I am very happy with my results and he did exactly what I wanted/described. I couldn’t be more satisfied. The staff at his office are very patient and supportive throughout the whole process. …”*

Joanne L. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“… truly a life changing experience…”

“I had the the most AMAZING experience with Dr. Nichter. I first got breast implants with him back in 2006 and it was perfect. May 2021, I went back to get a full mommy make over with him (breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction of arms, chin & things). Dr. Nichter and his staffs are amazing from the beginning to end. It has been truly a life changing experience …”*

Patcharin S. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Dr. Horowitz is amazing.”

Dr. Horowitz is amazing. I’ve seen him for several surgeries and he is as kind now as he always has been, and knowledgeable too! He is very patient with my millions of questions and works hard to make me feel comfortable and at ease. His staff is great, they are always very welcoming! I love this place. …”*

Irish M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“My experience was amazing.”

“Dr. Horowitz is very warm, professional and makes you feel comfortable. He did my breast augmentation for me about a month ago and I couldn’t be happier. My experience was amazing. I didn’t feel rushed during my consultation & he always made sure that I understood everything. …”*

Ashley Z. (RealSelf Review)

View More Testimonials

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Everything I hoped for and more!”

“What can I say about my experience here… It was amazing! Everything I hoped for and more! Not only is Dr. Nichter a perfectionist, he’s also an expert at what he does! I am very pleased with my results! All of his support staff are amazing as well! Everyone makes you feel so welcome and cared for.”*

Laura M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“10/10 recommend coming here…”

“The whole process was so easy and I was so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend coming here, don’t even second guess it, you’re at the right place!!! I went to multiple appointments at other surgeons and nothing comes close to how professional and amazing this office is.”*

Dominica F. (Yelp Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“I couldn’t be more satisfied.”

“Dr. Horowitz is an amazing plastic surgeon who makes everything look so natural and beautiful. He is very kind, artistic and works magic. I am very happy with my results and he did exactly what I wanted/described. I couldn’t be more satisfied. The staff at his office are very patient and supportive throughout the whole process. …”*

Joanne L. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Dr. Horowitz is amazing.”

Dr. Horowitz is amazing. I’ve seen him for several surgeries and he is as kind now as he always has been, and knowledgeable too! He is very patient with my millions of questions and works hard to make me feel comfortable and at ease. His staff is great, they are always very welcoming! I love this place. …”*

Irish M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“… truly a life changing experience…”

“I had the the most AMAZING experience with Dr. Nichter. I first got breast implants with him back in 2006 and it was perfect. May 2021, I went back to get a full mommy make over with him (breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction of arms, chin & things). Dr. Nichter and his staffs are amazing from the beginning to end. It has been truly a life changing experience …”*

Patcharin S. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“My experience was amazing.”

“Dr. Horowitz is very warm, professional and makes you feel comfortable. He did my breast augmentation for me about a month ago and I couldn’t be happier. My experience was amazing. I didn’t feel rushed during my consultation & he always made sure that I understood everything. …”*

Ashley Z. (RealSelf Review)

View More Testimonials

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

Hear What Our Patients
Have to Say…

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Everything I hoped for and more!”

“What can I say about my experience here… It was amazing! Everything I hoped for and more! Not only is Dr. Nichter a perfectionist, he’s also an expert at what he does! I am very pleased with my results! All of his support staff are amazing as well! Everyone makes you feel so welcome and cared for.”*

Laura M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“10/10 recommend coming here…”

“The whole process was so easy and I was so well taken care of. 10/10 recommend coming here, don’t even second guess it, you’re at the right place!!! I went to multiple appointments at other surgeons and nothing comes close to how professional and amazing this office is.”*

Dominica F. (Yelp Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“My experience was amazing.”

“Dr. Horowitz is very warm, professional and makes you feel comfortable. He did my breast augmentation for me about a month ago and I couldn’t be happier. My experience was amazing. I didn’t feel rushed during my consultation & he always made sure that I understood everything. …”*

Ashley Z. (RealSelf Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“I couldn’t be more satisfied.”

“Dr. Horowitz is an amazing plastic surgeon who makes everything look so natural and beautiful. He is very kind, artistic and works magic. I am very happy with my results and he did exactly what I wanted/described. I couldn’t be more satisfied. The staff at his office are very patient and supportive throughout the whole process. …”*

Joanne L. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“Dr. Horowitz is amazing.”

Dr. Horowitz is amazing. I’ve seen him for several surgeries and he is as kind now as he always has been, and knowledgeable too! He is very patient with my millions of questions and works hard to make me feel comfortable and at ease. His staff is great, they are always very welcoming! I love this place. …”*

Irish M. (Google Review)

Pacific Center for Plastic Surgery Newport Beach

“… truly a life changing experience…”

“I had the the most AMAZING experience with Dr. Nichter. I first got breast implants with him back in 2006 and it was perfect. May 2021, I went back to get a full mommy make over with him (breast lift, tummy tuck, liposuction of arms, chin & things). Dr. Nichter and his staffs are amazing from the beginning to end. It has been truly a life changing experience …”*

Patcharin S. (Google Review)

View More Testimonials

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