Dr. Edween performs Tummy Tuck in Los Angeles

Submitted by lookingyourbest4u on June 9, 2008 - 10:19am.

"I just can't seem to get rid of my hanging stomach", a comment often heard after pregnancy where muscles and skin have stretched beyond a point where they can return to normal position. Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as a tummy tuck is a procedure that smoothes and flattens the abdomen by tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall and removing the excess skin and fat. The best candidates are men and women who are in relatively good shape, but bothered by a large fat deposit or loose abdominal skin that won’t respond to diet and exercise. Women who plan future pregnancies should wait, since the vertical muscles in the abdomen which are tightened can separate again during pregnancy.

The incision is placed just above the pubic area, and extends towards the hipbones, with the length dependent on how much skin to remove. An additional incision is made to form the new belly button. “I design an incision that can be hidden within the swimsuit lines, so women feel confident and comfortable enough to go out on the beach” states Dr. Edween. With a partial abdominoplasty, or mini-tuck, the skin is tightened and sutured, however the incision is much shorter and the belly button stays in place.

Exercise will help you heal better, tone muscles, reduce swelling, and lower the chance of blood clots. Most people return to work after two weeks. Soon after surgery patients will often see a smoother, flatter change in the shape of their abdomen. Their confidence is boosted as they often feel and look better in their clothes. With proper maintenance of your diet and exercise, the results of this procedure are long lasting, with the scar flattening and fading to a lighter color over time.