Tummy Tuck in San Diego & La Jolla, CA
- What is a tummy tuck?
- Am I a Candidate?
- Benefits
- Types of Tummy tucks
- Procedure
- Risks
- Recovery
- Results
- Cost
- FAQs
If stubborn abdominal fat or loose skin keeps you from feeling confident, tummy tuck surgery may be the right solution for you. Dr. Brian Reagan offers an advanced drain-less tummy tuck technique called the Better Tuck Tummy Tuck that includes liposuction for enhanced body contouring and eliminates the need for post-surgical drains, simplifying your recovery.
At True Beauty San Diego Aesthetic Surgery & Medicine, our focus is on delivering personalized care and natural-looking results. Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Reagan has helped hundreds of patients achieve a slimmer, more toned abdomen.
QUICK SUMMARY
TUMMY TUCK
Purpose:
Improve the shape and appearance of the abdomen
Procedure Length:
1-3 hours (depending upon extent of procedure)
Anesthesia:
General
In/Outpatient:
Outpatient
Recovery Time
Back to work 2-3 weeks. Strenuous activities 6-8 weeks.
Final Appearance:
6 to 8 weeks with continued improvement over next several months
Duration of Results:
Long lasting unless significant weight gain
Average Cost
$5,000 -$8,000
*Individual patient results may vary. Examples presented are not to be interpreted as a promise or guarantee.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure designed to eliminate loose skin and fat that are resistant to weight loss efforts. During a tummy tuck, loose, sagging skin tissue is excised and the underlying abdominal muscles, which may have been stretched out due to pregnancy or weight gain, are tightened. Stubborn pockets of fat may also be removed for a firmer, flatter contour. If you have stretch marks in the lower abdomen, these will likely be removed with the excess skin tissue.
Brian Reagan, MD, FACS
Dr. Brian Reagan is a board-certified plastic surgeon and founder of True Beauty San Diego Aesthetic Surgery & Medicine. Dr. Reagan is renowned for his surgical skills and commitment to patient satisfaction. Dr. Reagan has been featured on local media outlets, including ABC 10, and recognized as one of the “Best Plastic Surgeons in San Diego” by San Diego Magazine, and “Best Plastic Surgeons in La Jolla” by La Jolla Light Newspaper.
What Makes Dr. Reagan’s Tummy Tuck Unique?
Dr. Reagan’s tummy tuck combines the benefits of a traditional tummy tuck with liposuction and a specialized multi-layered suture technique. This approach reduces post-surgical complications and provides a smoother recovery.
Unlike traditional tummy tucks that require surgical drains to prevent fluid buildup, Dr. Reagan uses advanced suturing to minimize trauma and rely on the body’s natural healing processes. This technique results in:
- Shorter recovery time
- Reduced risk of infection
- Improved comfort with no need for post-surgical drain care
- Smoother scars and enhanced contouring
Am I a Candidate?
You may be an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck if you have one or more of the following:
- Excess, loose skin in the abdomen due to genetics, weight fluctuations, pregnancy or the natural aging process
- Stubborn deposits of fat on the abdomen
- Weakened or separated abdominal muscles
A tummy tuck is a highly individualized procedure. Dr. Reagan will tailor your procedure to meet your specific needs and goals. For instance, for loose skin and fat on the lower abdomen, Dr. Reagan may recommend a mini-tummy tuck instead of a full tummy tuck. Or, he may recommend combining tummy tuck with another body contouring procedure such as body lift, to enhance your overall shape and proportions.
Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
Tummy tuck is the ideal solution for loose, hanging skin and internal muscles that have separated or weakened, creating a stubborn “pouch” in the abdomen area.
The procedure can help boost confidence, making fitted clothing easier to wear comfortably. Many women report feeling as good as they look.
Additional benefits may include improvements in stress urinary incontinence and ventral or umbilical hernias. Some studies also suggest better posture and sustained weight as possible outcomes.
Research published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery indicates that fat removal may influence appetite-regulating hormones, contributing to long-term weight management.
Types of Tummy Tucks
Dr. Reagan offers full and mini-tummy tucks.
Full
The traditional full tummy tuck addresses loose skin in the upper and lower abdomen and weakened abdominal muscles. The full tummy tuck creates an incision from hip to hip that may be concealed beneath underwear or swimsuit bottoms. Dr. Reagan tightens the muscles, pulls the skin down to remove the excess tissue, and re-positions the belly button. Stretch marks in the lower abdomen are gone and stretch marks in the upper abdomen will now sit lower.
Mini
The mini-tummy tuck is often a better option for slender people with good skin quality and minimal muscle weakness but a stubborn pooch in their lower stomach. The mini tummy tuck is a less invasive and complex version of the procedure and only uses one incision to modify the lower abdomen. The incision is located below the bikini and underwear line and is typically shorter than the incision used for a full tummy tuck. Mini tummy tuck often involves a faster recovery than a full tummy tuck.
How is the Procedure Done?
Tummy tuck surgery is an outpatient procedure, performed under general anesthesia. To begin, a horizontal incision is made from hipbone to hipbone. The incision will be located below the navel and low enough so it can be concealed by most underwear and bikini bottoms. Through this incision, our plastic surgeon will remove loose, excess skin and tighten the underlying muscles (if necessary).
If there are fatty deposits present, they will be removed with liposuction techniques for a slimmer and firmer contour. An additional incision will be made around the navel so it can be raised to a more natural-looking position on the abdomen.
The Drainless “Better Tuck” Tummy Tuck
Tummy tucks may be performed with various techniques. Dr. Reagan prefers the drain-less tummy tuck because of its many advantages. A drain-less tummy tuck combines the traditional abdominoplasty procedure with liposuction and closes the abdomen with a series of layered sutures to eliminate the need for post-surgical drains. This technique offers a faster, less complicated recovery and more comprehensive results.
Surgical drains are traditionally used for abdominoplasty to stop fluid from building up behind the tissues after surgery. The lifted skin creates a space between the muscle and skin that will heal shut but may accumulate fluid until it has recovered fully. Clear tubes are inserted through small incisions to drain the fluid buildup into a small bulb. Patients must care for their post-surgical drains, which are inconvenient and unsightly, and these drains may increase the risk of infection if recovery instructions are not followed correctly.
The drain-less “Better Tuck” tummy tuck technique negates the need for post-operative drains, and patients tend to have fewer seromas (excess fluid buildup in the surgical site after the procedure). This method means patients don’t have to worry about measuring the fluid output or emptying drains, and recovery is often shorter with smoother healing scars. Drain-less tummy tucks rely on the natural lymphatic drainage system in the body to prevent fluid buildup after surgery and leaves some of your connective tissue intact, minimizing surgical trauma.
Call or email us today to see if you are a good candidate for a drain-less Btummy tuck.
Safety Information
Normal and temporary side effects of tummy tuck include swelling, soreness and bruising. Over time, these side effects should subside and any discomfort can be managed with prescription oral pain medication.
Like all surgical procedures, tummy tucks carry some degree of risk. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, prolonged numbness, poor wound healing and unfavorable scarring. Fortunately, these risks decrease dramatically when working with a qualified plastic surgeon. Prior to your procedure, Dr. Reagan and his team will discuss side effects and risks in detail with you.
Recovery Time
Depending on the extent of your procedure and personal healing progress, you will need to take one to two weeks off from work and other normal activities. While your abdomen will appear slimmer soon after tummy tuck, it may take up to a year for the final results to become visible.
The effects of tummy tuck can last for many years, so long as you follow a healthy lifestyle (i.e., exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, not smoke). True Beauty can provide you with more tips on how to prolong your slimmer and toned figure for years to come.
TUMMY TUCK RECOVERY
Immediately After:
Patients are sent home with post operative instructions.
One to Two Weeks After Surgery:
Patients should expect to wear a compression garment to help manage swelling and expedite the healing process. Most people are able to return to work during this time.
Three to Four Weeks After Surgery:
Patients start to notice gradual improvements in body contours and can usually engage in light exercise. However, more strenuous activities should be avoided.
One to Two Months after Surgery
It’s recommended that patients continue to wear a compression garment. Final results are starting to become noticeable.
Final Results:
On average, visible results are seen in 6-8 weeks, but may continue improve and heal over next several months.
*Individual patient results may vary. Examples presented are not to be interpreted as a promise or guarantee.
Tummy Tuck Results
Dr. Reagan is a board-certified plastic surgeon with an excellent reputation thanks to his meticulous, patient-based approach to the tummy tuck. He’s developed advanced surgical techniques based on his years of training and experience.
Dr. Reagan will customize your tummy tuck results to your body type and cosmetic goals to provide a beautiful figure that balances your overall frame.
Your needs, personal preferences and goals are carefully weighed by Dr. Reagan when he designs your surgical plan and performs your tummy tuck procedure. View our before and after gallery to see real results from our tummy tuck patients.
When will I see my results?
You may notice a slimmer contour right away, but compression garments, swelling and other aspects of recovery will obscure your figure while you heal. By the end of the first or second week, you should see a firmer, flatter abdominal shape, with your full results settling in around eight weeks after your tummy tuck. However, some patients take longer to heal than others, and someone who has a mini tummy tuck will recover quicker than someone who undergoes a full abdominoplasty.
How long will my results last?
The slimming results of tummy tuck can last many years so long as you maintain a healthy and stable weight. Because future weight gain can cause fat to reappear, the skin to stretch and the abdominal muscles to separate again, Dr. Reagan recommends you wait to have tummy tuck until after you are sure you are done having children. Doing so can help prolong the cosmetic effects of tummy tuck.
How Much Does Tummy Tuck Cost?
The cost of tummy tuck varies depending on several factors, including whether the procedure is being performed on its own or in conjunction with another procedure (e.g., liposuction, body lift). The True Beauty team can provide you with a price estimate after meeting with you in person and discussing the details of your aesthetic needs and goals.
What Is an Extended Tummy Tuck?
An extended tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, flanks, and lower back. This technique is often recommended for individuals who have experienced major weight loss or pregnancy, leading to significant skin laxity. By tightening the abdominal muscles and reshaping the midsection, an extended tummy tuck creates a smoother, more toned appearance.
Benefits of the Drainless Technique
Dr. Reagan’s drainless extended tummy tuck offers numerous advantages compared to traditional techniques. Progressive tension sutures are used to secure tissues in place, eliminating the need for surgical drains. This approach offers:
- No post-surgical drains – No need to manage uncomfortable drains during recovery.
- Faster recovery and reduced downtime – Patients can return to daily activities sooner.
- Lower risk of infection – Without drains, there is a reduced chance of bacterial buildup.
- Enhanced comfort and mobility – Patients experience less discomfort without dealing with drain tubes.
- Smoother scars and better contouring – The drainless technique improves scar healing and final results.
Ideal Candidates for an Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck is best suited for individuals with:
- Excess skin and fat in the abdomen, flanks, and lower back after significant weight loss or pregnancy.
- Skin laxity and weakened abdominal muscles that cannot be improved with diet and exercise.
- Good overall health and a stable weight, ensuring the best long-term results.
During a consultation at True Beauty San Diego, Dr. Reagan evaluates your anatomy and goals to determine if this procedure is right for you.
The Procedure Overview
A drainless extended tummy tuck involves a comprehensive approach to contouring the midsection:
- Incision Placement – An extended incision runs across the lower abdomen and extends around the hips to remove excess skin effectively.
- Muscle Tightening and Skin Removal – The abdominal muscles are tightened, and loose skin is removed to create a firmer, more sculpted look.
- Drainless Recovery with Progressive Tension Sutures – These sutures secure the skin and tissue, preventing fluid buildup and eliminating the need for drains.
Recovery and Results
Recovery from a drainless extended tummy tuck is typically smoother and faster compared to traditional techniques. Here’s what you can expect:
- Recovery Timeline – Most patients can return to light activities within two weeks, with full recovery in six to eight weeks.
- Compression Garments – Wearing a compression garment supports healing, reduces swelling, and helps shape the final results.
- Resuming Normal Activities – Light walking is encouraged early on, with more strenuous activities resuming gradually.
- Long-Term Results – With a healthy lifestyle, results can be long-lasting, providing a tighter and more contoured appearance.
Five-Star Service
See What Our Patients Have to Say!
“I had a body lift, breast augmentation, tummy tuck and arm lift. Post opp day 3 I was able to sit up on my own and be alone at my house with my 3 year old and no assistance. I went to 5 consults Dr Reagan was my fifth. I knew he was the right doctor then I saw his quote and was sold. Not only did I like what he had to say his prices beat everyone else by thousands. I am extremely pleased with my body and recovery I am no on day 18 with almost zero discomfort.”
Tummy Tuck FAQs
How much weight can I lose with tummy tuck?
While tummy tuck can help you slim and tone the abdomen, do not expect to lose a lot of weight. If you wish to lose a substantial amount of weight, we recommend you do so via bariatric surgery or diet and exercise, instead of or before tummy tuck.
Can tummy tuck treat stretch marks?
Tummy tuck cannot treat stretch marks. However, it can remove stretch marks located on the excess skin that will be excised. Because tummy tuck involves tightening the skin, the majority of the remaining stretch marks will be located on the lower abdominal skin, improving the overall appearance of the midsection.
When can I begin exercising after surgery?
How soon you can resume exercise will depend on your personal healing progress. Generally, exercise and other vigorous activities that elevate the heart rate should be avoided for approximately four weeks. At that point, Dr. Reagan may clear you to resume light-impact exercise. Most patients can resume high-impact exercise around the six- or eight-week mark. Ultimately, Dr. Reagan will advise on when it is safe for you to exercise after tummy tuck.
Will tummy tuck scars go away?
As with all other surgical procedures, tummy tuck does involve scarring. The good news is that the incision for the procedure is placed low enough that scarring can be concealed under most bathing suits and underwear. In addition, the scar will gradually fade up to the point that it is virtually indistinguishable. The True Beauty team will give you a list of guidelines to follow when caring for your healing scars.
Will a pregnancy reverse the results of tummy tuck?
A new pregnancy has the potential to undo the taut, fit look you achieved with the procedure. Muscles may again weaken or separate, and skin will be stretched to accommodate the enlarging abdomen.
Dr. Reagan advises women to wait until their family is complete, with no additional pregnancies anticipated, before undergoing tummy tuck.
How soon after a C-section can I have tummy tuck?
Dr. Reagan advises waiting about six months after a C-section, or until the end of breastfeeding.
This is sufficient time for the uterus and other internal structures to heal and regain their usual shape. Your body is also in better condition to accommodate a surgical procedure at that time.
Will I retain my natural belly button?
This is a surprisingly common question, with a very reassuring answer: Yes. It may be temporarily re-positioned, depending on the extent of the abdominoplasty.
Typically, the belly button is surgically removed, then reattached at the end of the procedure and adjusted to harmonize with the tighter, firmer stomach. The belly button is not re-positioned at all with a mini tummy tuck.
How does a drain-less tummy tuck reduce the risk of complications?
By eliminating the need for surgical drains, this technique minimizes the risk of infection and fluid buildup, which are common concerns with traditional tummy tucks. The advanced suturing method used by Dr. Reagan ensures the body naturally absorbs any excess fluid during the healing process.
Will I need to wear a compression garment after surgery?
Yes, wearing a compression garment is essential for reducing swelling, supporting the healing tissues, and helping to achieve the best contouring results. Dr. Reagan will provide specific recommendations on how long to wear it based on your recovery progress.
How soon can I exercise after a tummy tuck?
Most patients can return to light activities within a week, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Dr. Reagan will provide personalized guidance on when it is safe to resume your workout routine.
How does a drainless extended tummy tuck differ from a traditional extended tummy tuck?
A drainless extended tummy tuck eliminates the need for post-surgical drains by using progressive tension sutures. This technique improves comfort, reduces infection risk, and enhances recovery.
What is the recovery timeline for a drainless extended tummy tuck?
Patients generally return to work and normal activities within two weeks. Full recovery takes about six to eight weeks, with final results becoming more visible as swelling subsides.
Will the scar from an extended tummy tuck be visible?
The incision is strategically placed low on the abdomen and extends to the flanks, making it easily concealed by underwear or swimwear. Scar appearance improves over time with proper care.
Can an extended tummy tuck be combined with other body contouring procedures?
Yes, many patients choose to combine an extended tummy tuck with liposuction or other contouring procedures for enhanced results. Dr. Reagan customizes each procedure to fit your needs.
Who is an ideal candidate for an extended tummy tuck?
Ideal candidates are those with significant excess skin and fat in the abdominal area, good overall health, and realistic expectations about the results.
Five-Star Service
See What Our Patients Have to Say!
“I highly recommend Dr. Reagan!
Dr. Reagan did my breast aug about 12 years ago and you cannot find a scar so when I knew I wanted to get my stomach fixed (after 3 babies) I knew where to go. I had a tummy tuck to repair my ab muscles and remove some extra skin. For 5 years my daily life revolved around finding shirts that hid my protruding belly…even when I lost a ton of weight. I am 5’6 and weigh 125 but my stomach…”
Schedule a Consultation with True Beauty
To learn more about tummy tuck schedule a consultation. Contact True Beauty by calling (858) 454-SKIN (7546) or emailing our La Jolla practice today.
