Abdominoplasty

Dr. William Lao is a double-board-certified plastic surgeon who has performed numerous tummy tucks over the course of his career. Dr. Lao can use his surgical prowess to give you the tight and toned abdomen you have always wanted.

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WHY ABDOMINOPLASTY?

Laxity of the abdomen is a common concern of ladies in the mid 30s to 50s. Common reasons for the enlarged belly are due to weight gain or massive weight loss or abdominal laxity after childbirth (especially ladies who have had multiple pregnancies or gave birth to twins or triplets). Characteristics of these common issues with the abdomen often involve stretch marks, lower abdominal fullness, hanging pannus, ptosis and lengthening of the belly button. Men can also have similar problems but often stem from weight gain with mostly intra-abdominal fat accumulation and not as much abdominal structural laxity as ladies.

A large abdomen not only causes cosmetic distress due to the unsightly appearance but also comes with difficulty in fitting into nice clothing. Depending on the occupation, patients have complained of discomfort wearing belts or equipments that are required for work (ie. police officers, construction workers). When the pannus is large, the skin crease underneath can collect moisture and result in skin irritations with rash or fungal infections.

AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR A TUMMY TUCK?

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck should be in good overall health and should have a realistic understanding of what is possible through surgery. During your initial consultation. Dr. Lao will evaluate your current health, go over your pertinent medical history, and ask what your reasons and goals are for the procedure.

It is best to wait until you have reached your ideal weight and are prepared to maintain that weight before undergoing a tummy tuck. Gaining weight after your abdominoplasty can reverse the results of your procedure, meaning additional surgeries may be required.

HOW IS A TUMMY TUCK DONE?

There are many ways to handle a large abdomen. The best result comes from surgery with weight loss. If the patient’s skin quality is good and the primary issue is only excess fat, then liposuction alone will likely be enough to enhance the appearance of the midsection. If there is excess sagging skin or stretched-out abdominal muscles, a tummy tuck is required.

Abdominoplasty is offered to people who not only has excess fat but also excess skin in the abdomen. For stretch marks, abdominoplasty often times is the only effective way to remove them for women after giving birth.

Some people may have abdominal muscles that have become stretched and loose, making it impossible to attain a flat midsection. During the procedure, the loosened abdominal fascia can also be tightened internally to give the patient an hour-glass shaped waistline and enhance the overall appearance of their figure.

RECOVERING FROM ABDOMINOPLASTY

Bruising and swelling can occur following your tummy tuck. Compression garments are provided to help manage swelling and provide additional support. Medication can be prescribed to help manage any pain or discomfort. It usually takes one week before you can resume your normal activities. Strenuous activities will need to be postponed for several weeks.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION FOR YOUR TUMMY TUCK

Contact our office today to schedule a consultation for your abdominoplasty with Dr. Lao. He can take the time to listen to your reasons for choosing to undergo surgery so that he can customize your tummy tuck and provide you with the personalized results you are looking for.