TUMMY TUCK
Considering a tummy tuck?
Are you frustrated with the appearance of your abdomen? Maybe you’ve been following a healthy diet and exercise plan, but nothing seems to help?
If you’re struggling with excess belly skin, with potentially overstretched muscles beneath, you may be an ideal candidate for abdominoplasty surgery, commonly known as a tummy tuck.
During an abdominoplasty (“tummy tuck”) an incision is made low in the abdomen, often along the lowest natural crease below the bikini line, so the abdominal muscles can first be repaired/tightened and then all the excess skin can be removed. This procedure helps patients with saggy skin, stretch marks, and or a persistent abdominal bulge we often call an abdominal “pooch”.
Dr. Jason Roostaeian is exceptionally skilled at giving patients (male and female alike) a more toned looking silhouette.
Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
Patients with loose, sagging skin due significant weight loss, or who have noticed seemingly irreversible abdominal changes after pregnancy, are ideal candidates for an abdominoplasty procedure.
A tummy tuck is often combined with other procedures of the breast or body such as liposuction of the flanks or a breast lift with or without augmentation as part of a “mommy makeover.” Dr. Jason was the lead author on a study, Comparison of Limited-Undermining Lipoabdominoplasty and Traditional Abdominoplasty Using Laser Fluorescence Imaging, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal that objectively evaluated the safety of performing liposuction of belly fat at the same time as a tummy tuck. This breakthrough abdominoplasty procedure is able to achieve more dramatic results in a single procedure.
Natural looking tummy tuck results
During a tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Jason carefully places an incision as low as possible below the bikini line – typically along one of the body’s natural creases – to minimize the scar’s visibility. He then repairs the underlying abdominal muscles before removing the excess skin – tightening the lower stomach and resolving associated skin laxity and stretch marks. As with all of his cosmetic surgery procedures, Dr. Jason is meticulous with his suturing technique, taking his time in the operating room to ensure that the stitching is as seamless as possible – which in turn optimizes your tummy tuck healing process.
Depending upon the type and severity of your concerns, there are several different tummy tuck treatment options. Dr. Jason will consult with you and evaluate your individual abdominal anatomy prior to recommending a surgical course of action based upon your goals.
UCLA tummy tuck consultation
Coming in for a consultation with Dr. Roostaeian is the best way to determine whether abdominoplasty surgery is right for you.
During your meeting, you’ll have the chance to explain your concerns and ask as many questions as you need, without being rushed or feeling obligated to book a procedure. Dr. Roostaeian prefers to listen and get to know patients first, which helps him guide you to a solution that works best for you. Together, you’ll discuss the look you’re trying to achieve, and you’ll be able to view standardized before and after photos of Dr. Jason’s previous results that are similar to your aesthetic goals.
All consultation fees may be credited to any subsequent service performed by Dr. Jason. To book a consultation, please complete the form and we will contact you within two business days.
Alternatively, you may call 310.825.8827 to speak with Lili to make an appointment.
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Dr. Jason and our staff at the UCLA Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Suite are ready to get you started on your journey. Whether to answer questions, schedule a consultation, or simply to listen, we're ready when you are.

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Everything you need to know about tummy tuck surgery
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
PREPARING FOR TUMMY TUCK SURGERY
During your consultation, Dr. Roostaeian will listen to your goals, answer any questions, and help you determine the best treatment plan for you. If you decide to reserve a date for your abdominoplasty, Dr. Jason’s surgery coordinator, Lili, will also schedule you a pre-op appointment to take place about a week or two prior to your surgery.
As with any surgical procedure, you must be physically and mentally fit for tummy tuck surgery. To ensure patient safety, Dr. Jason only operates on patients who are within a healthy weight range, do not smoke, and who have received anesthesia clearance by their primary physician.
Am I a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
There are many factors involved with how your face ages, both your genetics and environmental exposures play a crucial role. Many patients notice their first signs aging around their eyes. Therefore, there is no particular age that one should wait before considering a browlift. The procedure is effective for anyone who feels as though they have excess fullness and/or skin laxity around their eyes.
In addition, Dr. Jason will only perform a brow lift on patients who meet the following criteria:
- Are in good health
- Do not smoke
- Are able to avoid any blood-thinning medications for several weeks
- Have been cleared for surgery by a primary care physician
- Have reasonable expectations and aesthetic goals
What are the different types of tummy tucks?
Full Abdominoplasty
If loose skin is present both below and above the navel, a full abdominoplasty may be the best option. After tightening the abdominal muscles and removing the loose skin, Dr. Jason places an additional incision to create a new belly button for the most natural, seamless result.
Full Abdominoplasty with Liposuction
If you have excess fat in addition to loose abdominal skin, incorporating liposuction into your tummy tuck procedure may be an ideal solution. Dr. Jason was the lead author on a study, Comparison of Limited-Undermining Lipoabdominoplasty and Traditional Abdominoplasty Using Laser Fluorescence Imaging, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal that objectively evaluated the safety of performing liposuction of belly fat at the same time as a tummy tuck. This breakthrough abdominoplasty procedure is able to achieve more dramatic results in a single cosmetic procedure.
“Mini” Tummy Tuck
Patients with excess skin isolated below the belly button can undergo a modified abdominoplasty, or “mini” tummy tuck. This procedure requires only a lower incision, because the belly button remains in place. Dr. Jason will evaluate your anatomy and consider your goals before determining whether or not a mini abdominoplasty is the correct course of action.
While the information provided here is not a substitute for a discussion with Dr. Jason and the plastic surgery team, it will provide you with a general overview of how to prepare for, and what to expect – both during and after – your abdominoplasty surgery.
How do I find the best abdominoplasty surgeon?
When searching for the best tummy tuck surgeon to perform your abdominoplasty, Dr. Roostaeian advises you to consider several key factors:
- Credentials and Certifications: Research your prospective tummy tuck surgeon online – not just on their website, but on industry credentialing sites such as www.surgery.org, which lists board certified plastic surgeons. Do not choose a cosmetic surgeon who is a member of the ABCS – they do not receive the extensive training and oversight that plastic surgeons do. Look for plastic/cosmetic surgeons like Dr. Roostaeian, who are ABPS and ASAPS members.
- Before and After Photos: The doctor you choose to perform your abdominoplasty should be happy to show you an extensive array of standardized before and after photographs. Scrutinize them carefully, making sure the lighting is consistent and the various views are shown with detail. View enough tummy tuck pictures to determine whether or not the work is of high quality, with an aesthetic that matches your personal goals. Dr. Jason strives to provide patients with the highest quality of standardized tummy tuck photographs so you can feel confident in your choice. Click here to view Dr. Jason’s gallery of before and after abdominoplasty photos. [LINK]
- Office and Surgery Facility: Before choosing an aesthetic surgeon to perform your abdominal surgery, closely evaluate the office staff, as well as the surgery facility. All of the staff should be helpful and friendly, and pleased to provide you with detailed information about their operating rooms and equipment. Dr. Jason and his staff are proud to be affiliated with UCLA, world renowned for state-of-the-art surgical facilities and patient care. Click to learn more about our top-ranked hospital.[LINK]
- Personal Connection: Seeing eye to eye with your tummy tuck surgeon is just as important as assessing their operating skills. Plastic surgery is a very personal endeavor, and Dr. Jason strongly believes in creating a connection with all of his patients prior to heading into the OR.
Click to read Dr. Jason’s blog post How to Find the Best Plastic Surgeon.
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
Tummy tuck costs vary considerably from patient to patient. The exact cost of your abdominoplasty surgery will depend on the complexity of your case, and whether or not you are combining your tummy tuck with other procedures. You will receive a written quote from Dr. Jason’s office following your consultation.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?
Yes, Dr. Jason often combines a tummy tuck with other procedures of the breast or body. Liposuction of the flanks or a breast lift with or without augmentation as part of a “mommy makeover” are commonly performed at the same time. Dr. Jason was the lead author on a study, Comparison of Limited-Undermining Lipoabdominoplasty and Traditional Abdominoplasty Using Laser Fluorescence Imaging, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal that objectively evaluated the safety of performing liposuction of belly fat at the same time as a tummy tuck. This breakthrough procedure is able to achieve more dramatic results in a single procedure.
Can a tummy tuck improve the appearance of my belly button?
Since we often have to create a new opening for your belly button, this gives us the opportunity to change its size or shape. You can discuss your goals with Dr. Jason during the consultation to try and achieve the perfect belly button for you.
Should I lose weight before a tummy tuck?
To achieve the best possible result in body contouring it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This should be started before surgery so that you can keep it going after surgery. Although you will have to take a break from exercise for a few weeks during your recovery, it important to maintain a well-balanced diet. Many of Dr. Jason’s patients are more motivated by their new body shape following surgery and want to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
How do I prepare for tummy tuck surgery?
When preparing for a tummy tuck procedure, follow all instructions issued by Dr. Roostaeian, his office, and the staff at the UCLA Surgery Center. These guidelines include, but are not limited to:
THREE WEEKS PRIOR TO SURGERY
- Avoid smoking cigarettes, wearing a nicotine patch or using nicotine gum three weeks prior and three weeks after surgery. All nicotine products inhibits circulation and slows your healing process.
TWO WEEKS PRIOR TO SURGERY
- Do not take aspirin or any aspirin products. These medications cause bleeding which can lead to
complications. You may only use Tylenol. - If you are using Retin-A, discontinue use two weeks prior to surgery date. Do not recieve a dermabrasion, chemical peel, or laser, within five days prior to your surgery date.
- Do not take Vitamin E (it will cause you to bleed).
- Do not cut your hair (even your bangs) two weeks prior to surgery. Longer hair helps hide fresh incisions. Also, longer hair is easier to manage in surgery (we braid it to keep it out of the way).
- Do not color, perm, or chemically treat your hair during the 2-week period before and after surgery. Failure to do so may result in hair breakage and hair loss.
- Make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the doctor sees you the day following surgery.
- It is extremely important that we are informed about any medications or supplements that you are currently taking such as diet pills, mega doses of vitamins, prescriptions for depression, etc., Dr. Roostaeian and your anesthesiologist need to know every medication that is in your system.
DAY BEFORE/DAY OF TUMMY TUCK SURGERY
- Shampoo your hair and body with an antiseptic soap the night before surgery. We prefer you to use Hibiclens (sold at most drug stores) to wash your hair, face, and body (avoid the eyes) the night before and/or morning of surgery.
- Do not eat or drink anything (not even water) after midnight. The morning of surgery you may take your regular medications such as blood pressure, heart, thyroid, etc. with a small sip of water.
- Leave all your jewelry at home, including any body (pierced) jewelry. Do not wear contact lenses- not even extended wear. Remove all makeup. Do not apply lotion or creams. Bring a robe, gown (one that will slip easily over your head or one that buttons up the front) and slippers.
- DO NOT “WORKOUT” THE DAY BEFORE OR THE MORNING OF SURGERY. This will dehydrate your body and you will not be able to replenish it with water.
undergoing tummy tuck surgery
When you arrive for your tummy tuck surgery, the UCLA Surgery Center nurses will prepare you for your operation. Dr. Roostaeian will stop in to answer any remaining questions you may have, and to make surgical markings for the OR.
Once you have received the anesthesia and are comfortably sleeping, Dr. Jason will perform the abdominoplasty as discussed during your previous meetings.
Dr. Jason will explain to you during your consultation that sometimes, a surgical plan may need to be slightly amended depending upon what is revealed in the operating room. He will make adjustments as needed in order to achieve the results that you’ve agreed upon.
Will I have local or general anesthesia during my tummy tuck surgery?
Typically, Dr. Roostaeian performs tummy tuck surgery using general anesthesia. During your pre-operative appointment, Dr. Jason will review your anesthesia options.
Is a tummy tuck an outpatient procedure?
Dr. Jason Roostaeian highly recommends a single overnight stay following abdominoplasty surgery. The Surgery Center at UCLA is the only place in Los Angeles that allows you to have your surgery followed by a monitored overnight stay with a registered nurse (R.N.) in the same facility. Not to mention, that UCLA’s world class hospital ranked “Best in the West” according to the U.S. News and World Report for the last 2 decades, is next door in the rare event of an emergency. This allows for a safer surgical experience which is one of the main reasons Dr. Jason Roostaeian is proud to be on faculty at UCLA.
Patients who have undergone multiple procedures (a mommy makeover, for example) are required to stay overnight. Dr. Jason and the nurses at the UCLA Surgery Center will monitor your progress and make sure you have the highest standard of care.
How long does abdominoplasty surgery take?
Although each case is unique, tummy tuck surgery with Dr. Roostaeian takes about 2 – 4 hours. If you are having multiple procedures, your surgery time will vary. Prior to your surgery, Dr. Jason will let you know the approximate duration.
Will my belly button be moved during my tummy tuck?
The simple answer is no. During a tummy tuck, we leave the belly button alone and make a new opening for it when it is necessary. Dr. Jason utilizes special suturing techniques to achieve a natural looking result with hidden scars tucked deep inside the belly button.
What are the main abdominoplasty surgery risks?
Serious complications following tummy tuck surgery, while possible, are unlikely. Some potential complications can be avoided by carefully following Dr. Jason’s instructions.
In addition to the usual risks associated with anesthesia, other risks include:
TUMMY TUCK SURGERY recovery
Prior to your tummy tuck procedure, Dr. Roostaeian will go over what you can expect after your surgery and answer any questions you may have. Before being discharged from the UCLA Surgery Center, you will receive detailed post-op instructions from the staff, as well as information about your follow-up appointment with Dr. Jason. If at any time you have a question or concern after your surgery, our staff is available to assist you. Dr. Jason cares deeply about providing the highest standard of care for his patients, and will closely monitor your healing process.
As with any surgical procedure, recovery from an abdominoplasty proceeds in stages. While everyone’s healing process is different, you may expect the immediate recovery period to take about one to two weeks, followed by an activity restriction. Full healing and results will be apparent around the 3-4 month mark, while your scar and will continue to improve for 6 months to one year.
What can I expect after a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck procedure typically last approximately two to four hours. Dr. Jason will typically create incisions below your bikini line, and when necessary around your belly button (navel). The incision will be made as inconspicuously as possible, however, its length will vary depending on what your particular body needs to achieve the best possible shape.
Dr. Jason will employ liposuction in any of the areas you need to achieve the best result. Your abdominal muscles will be repaired and tightened as necessary. The extra skin from your belly is then removed and your incisions are closed using absorbable sutures so there is no need to later remove any stitches.
Following your procedure, you will be taken to the recovery suite where you will stay and be cared for and monitored by UCLA’s excellent nurses overnight.
After returning home the next day, you can take a shower after 2 days but baths, swimming, or soaking of your incisions should be avoided for 4 weeks. The majority of the swelling will likely subside within a week while some mild swelling may persist for a few more weeks.
Most patients require prescription narcotics for at least a few days after surgery. You can drive if you’re not taking prescription narcotics and most feel up for it 1-2 weeks after surgery. You can return to work within 1-2 weeks as long as it doesn’t require any significant physical activity or lifting.
Within one week after surgery you will visit Dr. Jason at the UCLA Division of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery suite in Los Angeles as a follow up so he can check on your healing and answer any questions.
How long will it take to heal after a tummy tuck?
After your abdominoplasty with Dr. Roostaeian, your incisions will be healed and you can return to most activities by 6 weeks. Full activities such as strenuous workouts, running, etc. is best to wait until 3 months, when your scars have achieved full strength. For a tummy tuck scar to fully mature, however, it takes at least 6 months to a year. Over this time you will see your tummy scars become barely visible, they will lighten in color and become softer to the touch.
When can I exercise or work out after tummy tuck surgery?
For the first 2-3 weeks following abdominoplasty surgery, you want to avoid straining (lifting anything more than 5 lbs), or getting your heart rate/blood pressure up as this can lead to bleeding. After 2-3 weeks you should avoid mechanical forces that will stress or put tension on your healing incisions for 3 months. This means you should avoid high impact activities that lead to excessive movement of your torso, such a running. If you feel up for it, after 2-3 weeks, Dr. Jason Roostaeian recommends starting with the seated stationary bicycle which is low impact and minimizes movement of your torso. Listen to what your body is telling you at all times, for instance stop the workout if you experience any new discomfort in your abdominal area. Remember, getting plenty of rest and reducing your overall activity will give you time to heal and speed up your recovery.
As always, consult with Dr. Jason if you have any questions about your post-tummy tuck healing process.
What does a tummy tuck scar look like?
Dr. Jason Roostaeian is extremely meticulous about the placement of his tummy tuck incisions. He typically places the scar as low as possible between the hip bones, following the natural creases of the body. The scar fades over time, remaining extremely inconspicuous and undetectable in most people.
Visit Dr. Jason’s abdominoplasty photo gallery to see examples of tummy tuck scars. [LINK]
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
Yes, you are able to get pregnant after a tummy tuck with no consequences to your newborn. However, the pregnancy will re-stretch the skin and abdominal muscles that were tightened and may require a revisional procedure. Therefore, Dr. Jason advises patients to wait until you are done with pregnancies before considering a tummy tuck.
How much time off work should I take after a tummy tuck?
While everyone heals at a different pace, there are general guidelines to help determine how much work or school you’ll miss after a tummy tuck. To promote proper healing, Dr. Roostaeian recommends taking at least 1 week off after abdominal surgery. Most patients are able to work from home or do homework after a few days of rest. Most patients with non-strenous jobs can return to work after about one week. If your work requires significant physical activity (lifting more than 5 pounds) you want to wait at least 2-3 weeks to prevent any increases in your blood pressure that can lead to bleeding while your’re still in the early stages of healing.
How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?
Patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle will enjoy the result of their tummy tuck procedure with Dr. Roostaeian for decades. Significant increases in weight can stretch out the abdominal skin and muscles that were tightened.
Tummy Tuck Patient Testimonials
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