Tummy Tuck Specialist

Thomas Vecchione, MD -  - Plastic Surgeon

Vecchione Plastic Surgery

Thomas Vecchione, MD

Plastic Surgeon located in Banker's Hill, San Diego, CA

Having a flat tummy is a dream for most people, but it can be a hard goal to achieve. Dr. Vecchione offers advanced tummy tuck methods to help patients throughout the San Diego, CA, area remove excess skin and fatty tissue for a sleeker, slimmer appearance.

Tummy Tuck Q & A

What is a tummy tuck?

Also called an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a procedure that helps remove excess skin and fat in the abdomen, and it also usually restores muscle tone to weak or separated muscles so the abdomen appears firmer and flatter. It's an ideal procedure for people who have lost a significant amount of weight, for women who have had multiple pregnancies, and for many others for whom dieting and exercises have failed to provide a sleek, firm profile.

What causes a flabby or loose belly?

The abdominal muscles can become weakened for a number of reasons, even in people who are otherwise fit, resulting in a loose or sagging belly. Some of the most common causes for a flabby belly include:

  • significant fluctuations in weight

  • aging

  • pregnancy

  • genetics

  • previous abdominal surgery

Although the results of a tummy tuck are designed to be permanent, substantial fluctuations in weight, including future pregnancies, can cause the tummy to become loose or flabby again. For that reason, it's a good idea to wait until you're through having children before you have a tummy tuck procedure.

Is a tummy tuck a replacement for liposuction?

No, a tummy tuck is intended to enhance your appearance; it is not intended to be a substitute for liposuction, nor should it be considered a substitute for diet and exercise.

What is the procedure like?

Tummy tucks are usually performed on an outpatient basis using general anesthesia. Incisions are made in the area below your belly button and excess skin and fat are removed. The underlying fascia – tissue located over the muscles – is tightened with permanent sutures. Then, the skin will be repositioned over the belly, and the bellybutton will be properly positioned. Finally, the incision will be closed and hidden in the natural crease in your lower belly.