Attain Your Dream Figure With a Tummy Tuck in Marin County

At Aesthetx, tummy tuck surgery at our Marin County practice is a highly sought-after procedure designed to tighten and tone the midsection by addressing the skin, fat, and abdominal muscles. Whether due to pregnancy, significant weight loss, aging, or simply genetics, many individuals struggle with a protruding abdomen that can be resistant to diet and exercise. A combination of loose skin, stubborn fat deposits, and stretched abdominal muscles often leads to a sagging midsection and an unwanted bulge. Over time, the natural decline in skin elasticity, coupled with factors like pregnancy or weight fluctuations, can cause the skin to stretch beyond its ability to retract. Additionally, fatty deposits around the abdomen can be challenging to eliminate, even with a healthy lifestyle. The two vertical muscles in the abdomen, which are crucial for maintaining a flat stomach, can separate over time—a condition known as rectus muscle diastasis. This separation can make it impossible to achieve the waistline you once had. Fortunately, a tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can effectively address all these concerns, resulting in a flatter, firmer abdomen.

Evolution of the Tummy Tuck

The development of the tummy tuck, like many plastic surgery procedures, initially focused on correcting physical deformities rather than enhancing aesthetics. In 1890, French surgeons Dr. Demars and Dr. Marx performed one of the earliest versions of this procedure, known as a “dermolipectomy,” to correct a protruding belly button and remove excess skin and fat. Their patient, a medical student, had an abdomen that hung down to his thighs, and the surgery successfully reduced its size. By 1899, Dr. Kelly at Johns Hopkins was performing what we now recognize as a modern abdominoplasty, although at that time, the procedure often involved removing the belly button entirely, resulting in an unnatural appearance. 

As the 20th century progressed, aesthetic medicine evolved, leading to techniques that preserved the belly button and improved the appearance of scars. By the 1970s, the placement of the tummy tuck incision began to adapt to the changing fashion trends, particularly swimwear styles, leading to more discreet scarring. Today, abdominoplasty has advanced significantly, with a focus on achieving the most aesthetically pleasing results: a barely noticeable scar, a flatter stomach, and a narrower waist. The introduction of liposuction and various procedural modifications has allowed each tummy tuck to be fully customized to suit the unique anatomy and aesthetic goals of each patient.

Banner media

Full Abdominoplasty

The traditional tummy tuck involves making a horizontal incision in the lower abdomen. The exact placement of this incision varies for each patient, but our surgeons are committed to making it as discreet as possible. At Aesthetx, we utilize a technique inspired by the Saldanha abdominoplasty, also known as “lipoabdominoplasty,” which was pioneered by a Brazilian surgeon. This approach delivers the most dramatic reshaping results. The procedure begins with comprehensive liposuction of the abdomen to remove excess fat deposits. Following this, an incision is made to remove the loose skin between the belly button and the pubic area. This incision is carefully placed to ensure minimal visibility. The separated rectus muscles are then sutured together, extending from the breastbone down to the pubic bone, restoring the abdomen's natural contour. The belly button, which remains attached to the abdominal wall, is carefully preserved and repositioned as the remaining skin is pulled taut. The final step involves closing the incision with dissolvable sutures, ensuring a smooth recovery. Often, liposuction of the flanks (commonly known as love handles) and the lower back is performed in conjunction with a full tummy tuck to enhance the overall contour of the waistline.

Woman's abdomen

Mini Abdominoplasty

For some patients, excess skin and fat may be localized to the lower abdomen, below the belly button. These individuals are ideal candidates for a mini tummy tuck, a less invasive variation of the traditional abdominoplasty. This procedure involves a smaller incision, and the belly button remains untouched. The mini tummy tuck is best suited for patients who are in relatively good shape but have a specific problem area below the belly button. Like the full abdominoplasty, a mini tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat, but it only addresses the area from the pubic region up to the belly button.

Modified Endoscopic-Assisted Abdominoplasty

For patients with significant rectus muscle diastasis but minimal excess fat and skin, our practice offers a modified endoscopic-assisted abdominoplasty in Marin County. This procedure requires only small incisions above the pubic area and within the belly button. A tiny camera, known as an endoscope, is used to visualize the area beneath the skin, allowing the surgeon to work without creating large incisions. Through these small incisions, the abdominal muscles are sutured together and reinforced, creating a narrower waistline and a more defined core. Additionally, any stubborn fat deposits are removed, and the skin is tightened to further enhance the abdominal contour. This procedure is ideal for patients with muscle separation and a small amount of excess skin.

Background media

Reverse Abdominoplasty

For patients who experience fullness in the upper abdomen, a reverse abdominoplasty may be the ideal solution. This procedure involves making incisions beneath the breasts, in the inframammary folds, to remove excess skin and fat from the upper abdomen. The skin above the belly button is then pulled upward, and the muscles are tightened, creating a smoother and firmer upper abdomen. For patients with fuller breasts, these incisions are typically hidden, even when wearing swimwear.

beach cliff at dusk

What Is the Recovery Like After Abdominoplasty in Marin County?

Your tummy tuck procedure will take approximately three to four hours to complete, and it will be performed in our fully accredited, state-of-the-art surgical facility. Many of our patients are comfortable with an epidural and sedation, which allows for a quicker recovery. Deep catheters are placed within the abdomen to minimize discomfort after the surgery.

As an outpatient procedure, you will be able to return home the same day as your surgery. You will be provided with specialized compression garments designed to reduce swelling and support your body as it heals. Most patients are able to return to work and resume most daily activities within two weeks of their surgery, though full recovery may take several weeks.

Preparing for Your Tummy Tuck

In the days leading up to your surgery, we will provide you with detailed instructions to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. This includes taking specific showers and applying medications to your belly button to prevent infection. The day before surgery, a gentle bowel cleanout is recommended to ensure that the abdominal muscles can be fully tightened and to prevent postoperative discomfort. On the day of your procedure, you will arrive at our surgical center at the appointed time, where our team will assist you in preparing for surgery. You will meet with your surgeon for any final questions and surgical markings, as well as with your nursing team and anesthesiologist. Our dedicated team will care for you throughout your surgery and recovery until you are ready to return home. While most patients are able to go home the same day, some may choose to stay overnight under observation.

Banner media

Why Choose Aesthetx for Your Tummy Tuck in Marin County?

Choosing Aesthetx for your abdominoplasty in Marin County means entrusting your care to a practice renowned for its blend of cutting-edge techniques, personalized care, and exceptional results. At Aesthetx, we understand that every patient is unique.

We take the time to thoroughly assess your individual anatomy and aesthetic goals, tailoring the tummy tuck procedure to meet your specific needs. This personalized approach ensures that your results are not only beautiful but also natural-looking.

Contact us media

Contact Us Today Schedule a Consultation

Unsure where to begin? Our experts can guide you.

Book Now
Contact us media

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at 415-980-6414.
Contact Us
X Cyber Week

Shop Now