Tummy Tuck
San Diego, CA

A tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel anything during the actual procedure. Your recovery process will entail mild to moderate discomfort in the first 7-10 days, as swelling, bruising, tightness, and soreness are most pronounced during this time. We will provide information on how to care for your body and incision sites to help you remain as comfortable as possible. Ice, compression garments, and pain medications will be given to help keep you as comfortable as possible.

There are four key appointments needed for a tummy tuck. This includes your consultation, where initial discussions take place, and your surgical plan is developed. Then, you’ll return for a pre-operative appointment, which is to ensure your medical clearance and finalize any paperwork and questions. You will then have the surgery at the La Mesa Surgical Center. Afterward, you will need to have follow-up appointments with our team, so that we can monitor your progress and ensure everything is medically sound. The exact number of follow-up appointments will depend on how well you’re healing and the extent of your surgery.

Despite the initial swelling and bruising that are common in the first few weeks of your recovery, the results of a tummy tuck will be apparent immediately. The majority of swelling will subside after about 7-10 days and continue to dwindle over the next few months, by which point you will be able to see the full results of the procedure. This includes a tighter tummy and stronger core (if your abdominal muscles were repaired during your surgery). Results will last a lifetime, with proper care and maintenance of a stable weight.

Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgery, and in a tummy tuck, it forms along the incision line. Scarring depends on the extent of your procedure, as mini tummy tucks have minimal scarring compared to a traditional tummy tuck. Regardless, Dr. Kaweski typically makes incisions in discreet areas to hide scars as much as possible. The scars will naturally fade over time, and you’ll be given instructions to aid fading, such as using scar creams and gels or sunscreen.

Generally, exercise can be resumed after about 4-6 weeks. This is because putting too much pressure on your abdominal muscles can cause severe complications to your healing progress and will prolong recovery. Gradually, you will be able to incorporate activities such as light walking after the first week to promote healing, light weights, and so on. But strenuous exercises should be strictly avoided in the first month or so. Dr. Kaweski will give you clearance when you can resume those activities.

Absolutely, combining a Tummy Tuck with other procedures, such as a breast lift, augmentation, or liposuction in areas other than the abdomen, is quite common. This approach, often called a mommy makeover, can enhance overall body contour and reduce total recovery time compared to undergoing procedures separately.

All surgeries carry some degree of risk, and a tummy tuck is no different. While generally safe, especially when performed by a highly experienced, board-certified surgeon, the risks of a tummy tuck procedure may include bleeding, scarring, infection, seroma, blood clots, numbness, or other complications. These risks are uncommon, but will be discussed with you during your consultation, along with the measures taken to keep you safe during and after your procedure.

Finding the best tummy tuck plastic surgeon in the San Diego area takes some careful research. The most important considerations are whether the surgeon is board-certified and their affiliations. For example, Dr. Kaweski is board-certified, affiliated with the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the California Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS), the International Society of Plastic Surgeons (ISPS), the American Medical Association (AMA), and the California Medical Association (CMA), with over 35 years of experience.

Additionally, patients should look for surgeons who are specialists in the procedure they are considering, such as a tummy tuck. Patient reviews and testimonials, along with before-and-after photos, will give you an idea of the style of their work. Most importantly, schedule a sit-down consultation to get to know the surgeon and ensure their practice aligns with your goals.

Yes, it is standard practice for patients to have drains in place for about 7 to 10 days following surgery. These drains are crucial for removing fluid, reducing swelling, and ensuring proper healing during the initial recovery phase.

A Tummy Tuck is ideal for individuals with excess skin in the abdominal area, offering skin-tightening benefits, whereas liposuction is suited for removing stubborn fat deposits. The choice between the two depends on whether the primary concern is excess skin or fat.

It is recommended to wait at least 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery before engaging in sexual activity to ensure proper healing and avoid complications. This precaution helps protect the integrity of the incisions and the surgical results.