Tummy Tuck Oakland by Plastic Surgery - Michael G. Cedars, MD, FACS, Inc.
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) in Oakland, CA
Tummy Tuck Candidate Evaluation
Abdominoplasty is recommended for patients with stretched abdominal skin that droops or creates skin folds on the lower abdomen. Candidates may experience challenges such as:
- Skin sagging that creates moisture-prone areas
- Potential yeast infection risks under loose skin
- Soft abdominal muscles causing forward tummy bulging
Procedure Expectations and Outcomes
A tummy tuck procedure offers significant aesthetic and functional improvements, including:
- Reduced abdominal bulging
- Tighter skin contours
- Potential removal of lower abdominal stretch marks
- Scar placement along the bikini line from hip bone to hip bone
Surgical Technique Considerations
Dr. Cedars carefully evaluates each patient's body composition to determine the most appropriate approach. Patients with substantial abdominal fat may require additional liposuction, potentially in a staged procedure to ensure optimal skin blood supply and healing.
Important Patient Qualifications
Tummy tuck surgery is not recommended for active smokers. Smoking significantly increases the risk of skin necrosis and complications. Ex-smokers have reduced but still elevated surgical risks compared to non-smokers.
Surgical Procedure Details
The abdominoplasty procedure involves a comprehensive approach to body contouring:
- Hip-to-hip incision, customizable based on patient preference
- Skin and fat layer elevation from underlying muscle
- Muscle layer tightening with permanent sutures
- Excess skin removal and precise closure
- Belly button repositioning and reconstruction
Post-Surgical Recovery and Care
Recovery involves careful management and gradual return to normal activities:
- Narcotic pain management for 5-7 days
- Approximately two weeks before returning to desk work
- Drainage tubes for preventing blood pooling
- Gradual resumption of normal activities
For more information about Tummy Tuck in Oakland, CA, submit an enquiry to Plastic Surgery - Michael G. Cedars, MD, FACS, Inc.