Tummy Tuck in Chico, CA

If you are like so many others, you may be unhappy with certain aspects of your figure, especially the stubborn tummy area. Whether you have had multiple pregnancies and your midsection hasn’t snapped back or your stomach has started changing over the years due to the natural aging process, hanging skin and stubborn fat deposits are really getting in your way. Fortunately, a procedure known as a tummy tuck exists, and it could be the perfect solution for you.

Dr. Kevin D. Myers at Northstate Plastic Surgery in Chico, CA, has dedicated his career to helping patients achieve their goals for their appearance. We warmly invite you to contact our office today to schedule a consultation and see how a tummy tuck might work for you!

What Is a Tummy Tuck? 

Tummy tuck surgery is also known as abdominoplasty, and is a surgical procedure that reshapes and flattens the abdominal area. This treatment operates on multiple layers of the abdominal wall, including the skin, fat and muscle. It is a corrective option for patients who have lost extensive weight, have noticed changes to their abdomen after pregnancy or who have separated abdominal muscles. 

What Does a Tummy Tuck Involve?

During the procedure, our surgeon aims to flatten the abdominal area by skillfully removing loose skin and excess fat and tightening the weakened muscles in the abdominal wall. Depending on the situation, some – if not all – of the stretch marks in the lower abdomen can be removed as well. Of course, the exact details and results of a tummy tuck vary from patient to patient, and we’ll be sure to discuss all of this with you during your consultation.

What a Tummy Tuck Can Offer?

Correction of Diastasis Recti

Diastasis recti occurs when the two parallel bands of muscle running down the center of the abdomen separate along the midline. This happens most often during pregnancy but can also result from significant weight fluctuations. The gap creates a visible bulge that exercise cannot flatten because the underlying structure is compromised. During a tummy tuck, Dr. Myers sutures these muscles back together, so the abdominal wall can be firm and flat again.

Fat Reduction

The abdomen can be a problem area for both men and women when it comes to unwanted fat. When exercise and a healthy diet cannot adequately address this area because of genetic and hormonal factors, this surgery can be an option for removing it. During a tummy tuck, fat is either removed along with the excess skin or targeted through liposuction during the same procedure. 

Reduction of Excess Skin

When skin stretches too much during pregnancy or weight changes, the skin becomes damaged and loses its elasticity. When this happens, it is unable to shrink with weight loss. A tummy tuck trims away this extra for a tighter abdominal surface. 

Some Stretch Mark Removal

This surgery can remove certain stretch marks, depending on their location. Typically, stretch marks that are in the lower abdominal area are removed along with the excess skin. Any stretch marks that are outside of this surgical zone will still be present after the surgery.

Belly Button Repositioning and Resizing

Because a full tummy tuck shifts the abdominal skin from the bottom of the ribs to the pelvis, the belly button needs to be repositioned to sit naturally on the newly contoured abdomen. Dr. Myers creates a new opening and reshapes the navel so it looks proportionate. 

What a Tummy Tuck Cannot Do

A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. It refines the shape of the abdomen after a patient has reached a stable weight. It cannot address visceral fat stored deep inside the abdominal cavity around the organs. This type of fat is only reducible through diet and exercise. 

A tummy tuck also does not prevent future weight gain or the effects of future pregnancies. While muscle repair and skin removal are long-lasting, this is through the proper aftercare. Dr. Myers usually recommends that patients consider the surgery once they are finished with childbearing and at a stable weight.

Who is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Abdominoplasty is extremely popular following pregnancy and massive weight loss, as these two things often lead to excess skin and stubborn fat deposits in the tummy region. However, virtually anyone with a flabby midsection and weak abdominal muscles may be a good candidate for this procedure.

You may want to consider a tummy tuck if:

• You have excess skin and/or stretch marks on your abdomen that do not go away with diet and exercise.
• The overall shape of your midsection has been negatively affected by a pregnancy, aging, or massive weight loss.
• You are simply unhappy with your abdomen, and it’s making you feel self-conscious.

Who Should Wait or Reconsider

If you are planning future pregnancies, you may need to postpone a tummy tuck since pregnancy can re-separate repaired muscles. Those who are actively losing weight should wait until they have been stable for at least six months. Smokers will need to quit at least four weeks before the surgery and commit to not smoking for four to six weeks after the appointment. Those who have conditions like uncontrolled diabetes or clotting disorders may need additional medical clearance. 

Types of Tummy Tuck

Full Tummy Tuck

The most common type, a full tummy tuck, addresses the entire abdomen from rib cage to pelvic bone. It involves an incision from hip to hip, along with muscle repair for the full abdomen and belly button repositioning. This surgery is for patients who would benefit from both upper and lower abdominal correction.

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck uses a shorter incision in the lower pelvic region and only focuses on the area below the belly button. During this surgery, there is no belly button repositioning and muscle tightening is limited to the lower belly. This option works well for those who have loose skin in the lower abdomen but no muscle separation above the belly button. 

Extended Tummy Tuck

Some patients are good candidates for an extended tummy tuck, where the incision wraps toward the flanks and sometimes lower back. This method may be recommended for those with significant excess skin after massive weight loss, and may be part of a broader body contouring plan. 

What to Expect During Your Tummy Tuck Consultation

Reviewing Your Medical History

Dr. Myers will ask about past surgeries, including C-sections, and cover medication, allergies and chronic conditions to assess surgical risk. Make sure to come prepared to discuss all of your current supplements and over-the-counter medications, since some can affect bleeding and anesthesia. 

Examining Your Abdomen

A physical examination will allow Dr. Myers to evaluate your skin laxity and tissue quality. He can also see where excess fat is stored in your abdomen and determine the degree of muscle separation. During this stage of the consultation, he can determine which type of tummy tuck may be best in your situation and whether any other procedures may be beneficial, such as liposuction.

Setting Good Expectations

Dr. Myers will make sure you understand what this procedure can and cannot accomplish based on your anatomy. Your results may not look exactly like those of other patients because of body type, degree of correction needed, type of tummy tuck and other factors. As part of this process, you may view before and after photos of similar patients and take before pictures of your own.

Preparing for Your Tummy Tuck

• Stop smoking: Nicotine restricts blood flow and impairs healing. Quit at least four to six weeks before your procedure. 
• Adjust medications: Blood thinners and anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin and ibuprofen may need to be paused.
• Arrange help at home: You will need someone to drive you home and assist you for the first few days while mobility is limited.
• Set up a recovery space: Prepare a comfortable area with pillows, easy-to-reach essentials, medications and simple meals. A recliner or wedge pillow helps you rest in the slightly bent position that is most comfortable after abdominal surgery.

How a Tummy Tuck Is Performed

Anesthesia and Preparation

A tummy tuck is a major surgery that is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep throughout the entire procedure. Preparation also includes marking the treatment areas and checking in with you regarding any last-minute information or concerns. The procedure takes two to four hours, depending on the type of tummy tuck and the extent of the correction.

Surgical Steps

• Incision Placement: Dr. Myers makes a hip-to-hip incision along the lower abdomen, positioned low enough to be concealed by most underwear and swimwear.
• Skin Separation: The skin and fat layer are lifted from the abdominal wall up to the rib cage, exposing the muscles.
• Muscle Repair: Separated or weakened muscles are sutured together along the midline, creating a tighter abdominal wall.
• Excess Removal: Redundant skin and fat are trimmed. Liposuction may be used to further refine the contour.
• Belly Button Repositioning: A new opening is created for the navel, which is sutured into its natural position.
• Closure: Incisions are closed in layers with sutures, and surgical drains may be placed to prevent fluid buildup.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Immediately After Your Tummy Tuck

You will spend time in a recovery room in our surgery center until your anesthesia wears off and it is safe to send you home. You will have a compression garment around your abdomen to reduce swelling, and surgical drains will start to collect excess fluid. Patients can go home the same day with a friend or family member to drive them. 

First Week

During the first week, you will experience soreness and discomfort and will not be able to fully stand up. To avoid putting tension on your incisions or corrected muscles, walk slightly hunched over. You will need to get help with basic tasks like meal preparation and caring for children. Pain medication will help you manage discomfort, and walking around your house will help you avoid the risk of blood clots. 

Weeks 2-3

After the first week, you will start to be more comfortable, and your incisions will be well on their way to healing. Drains are often removed within the first two weeks. Some patients may feel well enough to return to desk jobs and do light activities, but this is different for everyone. You will still need to avoid activities that require you to bend, twist, or lift heavy objects. 

Weeks 4-6

During this stage of recovery, you may be cleared by your surgeon for some moderate exercise and a few more normal activities around the house. Your incision will continue to heal and should be protected from sun exposure to keep the scar as minimal as possible. Swelling will decrease gradually, and you may start to see your abdomen take its new shape. 

Long-Term Recovery

Full recovery can take several months. Internal swelling can linger for six months or more, and the appearance of your scar will continue to mature for the next 12-18 months, fading from pink to a thinner, paler line. Dr. Myers will give you scar care recommendations to help with this process.

Tummy Tuck Results

Most patients see a difference right away, including a tighter and flatter abdominal wall and a removal of excess tissue. Results will be more noticeable as swelling subsides. Over the next six months, with proper care and use of compression garments, your body will settle into its new contours.  View our before-and-after gallery to see real patient outcomes.  

Combining a Tummy Tuck With Other Procedures

A tummy tuck can be combined with other procedures in a single session. The mommy makeover pairs a tummy tuck with breast surgery, such as a breast lift or augmentation. Liposuction of the flanks, thighs or back is another frequent pairing. A lower body lift may be recommended for patients with excess skin extending to the hips. Combining procedures reduces total recovery time compared to having multiple appointments and allows Dr. Myers to create a comprehensive result.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tuck

How much does a tummy tuck cost in Chico, CA?

The cost varies based on the type of procedure, extent of correction and whether additional procedures like liposuction are included. During your consultation, you will receive a cost breakdown covering surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility fees and post-operative supplies.

Can I get a tummy tuck if I have had a C-section?

Many tummy tuck patients have had C-sections. Dr. Myers can often remove the existing C-section scar while making the tummy tuck incision, so you will not end up with two separate scars. A C-section history does not complicate the procedure, though you need to give your body time to heal after your C-section before scheduling a tummy tuck. 

Can men get a tummy tuck?

Tummy tucks can be performed on men and women. Men with loose abdominal skin or separated muscles from weight loss or aging are good candidates. Dr. Myers also performs male breast reduction and other procedures for men.

What happens if I gain weight after a tummy tuck?

A small amount of weight gain (under 10 to 15 pounds) is unlikely to affect results significantly. However, larger fluctuations than this can stretch the skin and abdominal wall and reverse the improvements. Because of this, it is important to maintain a stable weight through balanced nutrition and exercise.

About Your Surgeon

Dr. Kevin D. Myers is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon. He has training in hand and microsurgery, and he brings the precision of this training into his body contouring procedures. His approach to tummy tuck surgery is individualized, with a focus on each patient’s unique shape and goals so he can provide natural-looking results that last. 

Schedule a Consultation

The benefits of a tummy tuck in Chico, CA, are more than just skin deep. In fact, most of our patients report improved self-esteem after undergoing this procedure. If you’d like to learn more about how abdominoplasty could be used in your case, make an appointment at Northstate Plastic Surgery in Chico, CA. Sit down with our experienced surgeon and learn about your options regarding plastic surgery. Contact us today at 530-345-5900 to set up your consultation!

For additional information, you may also visit The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery and The American Society of Plastic Surgeons.