You have worked out diligently and have been eating clean. You are close to your ideal body weight and are seeking solutions for persistent excess belly fat and excess skin which have appeared as a result of aging or weight loss. Hormonal changes as we age, anatomical zone, gender, and ethnicity can all be factors in our ability to combat “spare tires” and “love handles” as we seek a healthy lifestyle.

You are looking for options and have discovered a possible surgical solution! An abdominoplasty is a surgical procedure offered by Lavinia K. Chong, MD in Newport Beach. Abdominoplasties address excessive or stretch mark-blemished skin and fat from the abdominal wall. It may be paired with a liposuction procedure, or it may be paired with the application of abdominal mesh to address diastasis recti.

Your Consultation Process

During your consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Lavinia Chong, please be prepared to:

  • Review of your health history.

  • Discuss optimal weight (BMI) prior to your procedure.

  • Collaborate to set a realistic goal and plan of action.

To ensure optimal safety and comfort during your procedure, Dr. Chong will also:

  • Analyze the overlying skin quality and amount of excess skin.

  • Address any potential risks, complications, or recurrences.

  • Answer any questions or concerns you may have regarding the procedure, recovery time, and outcome.

“The best bedside manner of any doctor I’ve ever met!”

– D.I. (Patient since 2008)

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Procedure

Your abdominoplasty will be scheduled with Monitored Anesthesia Care (MAC), an IV Sedation allowing you to sleep through your procedure at our private surgical suite in Newport Beach. If liposuction has been discussed as a part of your treatment plan, this procedure will be performed first, potentially reducing excess fat in the hips, waist, and upper abdomen. The length of the surgery may vary dependent on your surgical plan, and the areas being addressed within your plan.

The incisions for an abdominoplasty are typically low, just above the pubic area. The length of the incision (and any subsequent scar) are determined by the amount of excess skin. Once the abdominal flap is elevated, fascia is repaired as needed and the strength of the abdominal wall is diagnosed (as shown in the following video):

Recovery

Please plan on minimal activity and movement in the abdominal area for the first two weeks. Your abdominal binder should be worn post-op to support the abdomen, assisting in conforming the abdominal skin flap onto the repaired abdominal wall. This type of compression garment will remind you to observe activity restrictions, as well as provide a surface to secure your drains. Binders can be expected to be worn for 2 weeks or until the drains are removed.

Placement of drains, wearing an abdominal binder, and limiting your physical activity will aid in preventing complications such as a seroma. Once the drains are removed you will be advised to move into a first/second stage post recovery garment for up to an additional four weeks. During your regular follow-up appointments Dr. Lavinia Chong will provide guidance with additional post care instructions catered to your specific needs.

Abdominoplasty FAQs

What is diastasis recti?

Diastasis Recti is an abdominal separation which can occur even in healthy, younger Orange County men. It can occur as a result of incorrect use of abdominal muscles, lack of fitness activity, excessive training using abdominal muscles, or even insufficient diaphragm breathing. The degree of separation can vary, and it can lead to a “barrel-chested” appearance.

What is a seroma?

A seroma is a collection of blood tinged fluid which can accumulate when a skin flap is raised off its usual position. Massive weight loss patients are at higher risk for seroma, so “quilting” sutures are added. Treatment of a seroma requires frequent needle aspiration (removal), compression, limited activities & occasionally antibiotics.

Will my incisions leak? 

Yes. Some of the tumescent fluid (which is infiltrated at the beginning of the operation) is removed with the lipoaspirate, while some is absorbed into the general circulation. The decision to leave the liposuction ports open is based on the following observations:

  1. Reduces the amount of fluid your body will need to absorb.
  2. Reduces the amount of bruising.
  3. Produces a better liposuction scar.

The treated area tends to “weep” a thin pinkish-red fluid post-operatively. This drainage can be expected to be pronounced at the lowest points on your body and quite brisk during the first 12 hours, post-op, requiring reinforcement of your drainage pads. The amount of drainage varies between patients.

How soon after can I walk?

We encourage moderate walking as soon as the effects of anesthesia have subsided and as soon as you return home. Walking is important for many functions:

  1. Promotes the re-expansion of your lungs.
  2. Encourages blood circulation from your legs back to the heart.
  3. Resets your internal clock, after having IV sedation so you can resume normal sleep/wake cycles.
  4. Safeguards against the development of clots in the legs and/or pelvis.
  5. Assists the regulation of your intestines.

Will I have a “six-pack” by the end of recovery?

It is important to remember that the results are only as good as the underlying muscular development. Resuming exercise after the prescribed convalescent period and maintaining a healthy diet can help to enhance the results.

Should I expect to see any changes in my results in the years following my procedure?

The key to maintaining results is the absence of weight fluctuation. Moving forward after your procedure, by choosing to maintain a healthy lifestyle, incorporating a regular exercise routine into your lifestyle, and observing a balanced diet you assume control over the longevity of results achieved. If you had liposuction incorporated into your procedure, it is important to remember that the unwanted fat was removed in an even layer, and the remaining mature fat cells do not reproduce. However, failing to adhere to a healthy diet and exercise regimen may possibly result in thickening in the untreated areas. Overall, your commitment to a healthy lifestyle is the key to your procedure’s success.

Is an abdominoplasty right for you? Dr. Chong looks forward to discussing your personal ab goals and reviewing your health history to help you determine if you are a surgical candidate. 

Schedule Your Virtual Consultation Here

Call our office in Newport Beach to schedule your surgical consult (949) 644-1400!