Abdominoplasty
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Newport Beach, Upland and Ontario, CA
Abdominoplasty is commonly referred to as a “tummy tuck”. It is one of the most effective surgeries to remove stubborn pockets of fat in the abdomen, regardless of gender. In Ontario, CA, the average cost of abdominoplasty can vary, and finding the best surgeon for this procedure is crucial. Dr. Ashraf also recommends tummy tucks to improve abdominal contouring.
Before and After Photos
Background
In abdominoplasty, the rectus muscle is tightened, and excess skin is excised, tucked, and reinforced. Hence, the name “tummy tuck”. Patients sometimes confuse abdominoplasty with liposuction of the abdomen. The price of abdominoplasty in Ontario, CA, reflects the complexity of the surgery compared to liposuction. As explained in the “Process” section on this page, liposuction alone does not address excess skin or weaken abdominal muscles.
Patients who seek out abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, often have not achieved their personal goals through diet or exercise alone. Considering the cost of a mommy makeover, which often includes abdominoplasty, patients in Ontario, CA, should consult with experienced surgeons like Dr. Ashraf. Characteristics of the ideal candidate include:
- Good general health
- Excess abdominal skin
- Weakened abdominal muscles
- Understanding that this is a body contouring and not weight loss procedure
- No plan for future pregnancies
Process
This is an outpatient procedure. Dr. Ashraf creates an incision across the lower abdomen between the pubic hairline and belly button. The price of this surgery in Ontario, CA, reflects the skill required for such precise work. The skin is lifted and pulled back so that she can repair the underlying abdominal muscles. DOES REPAIR MEAN REMOVE, TIGHTEN OR BOTH? The skin is then pulled back down so that Dr. Ashraf can gauge how much excess skin to trim. Prior to suturing the skin back together, a new opening for the belly button is developed.
Mini tummy tucks are a less extensive option with a lower cost, and they are increasingly popular in Ontario, CA. Dr. Ashraf also performs “mini” tummy tucks that only address muscle and fat deposits in the lower abdominal area. Additionally, this addresses excess skin below the belly button only. A new opening for the belly button is created as the final step prior to suturing the trimmed skin back in place.
Patients often confuse tummy tucks or mommy makeover with liposuction. While liposuction is often used during this procedure, the primary objectives of a tummy tuck are to remove excess skin and tighten the underlying muscles. Liposuction alone may be sufficient for patients who do not have excess skin and have strong abdominal muscles.
Recovery
Dr. Ashraf provides detailed post-operative checklists to her surgical patients. Generally, she recommends her patients do the following:
- Plan to take at least one week off from work or regular routine for recovery. No heavy lifting, swimming, or wearing underwires for at least 6 weeks following surgery.
- Prioritize weekly follow-up appointments 4-6 weeks after surgery. Post-surgical follow-up appointments are critical.
- Patients are prescribed pain medications, though most patients are off these medications after 1 week.
- Give scars time to heal. Scars continue to fade up to 1 year (and sometimes 2 years) after surgery.
Resources
We love patients who do their homework! Here are a few trustworthy resources on breast reduction:
- The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is an excellent resource. For those in Ontario, CA, it’s important to research the average cost and find the best surgeon for abdominoplasty. Click here for information for information about abdominoplasty.
- Plastic surgeon, Dr. Regina Nouhan, hosts a bi-monthly podcast, Plastic Surgery Decoded, to help patients learn about procedures. Click here to hear an episode on the tummy tuck from expert plastic surgeon.