Is Labiaplasty Right for You? A Guide to Costs, Benefits, and Realistic Expectations
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, eliminates unwanted fat while lifting and tightening the abdomen. The procedure is ideal for patients with excess skin and abdominal muscle laxity, especially after significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies. Patients interested in the tummy tuck procedure are invited to schedule a personal consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sheila Nazarian.
Dr. Nazarian is widely regarded as one of the best surgeons in Beverly Hills. In addition to her starring role on Netflix’s Emmy-nominated series Skin Decision, she regularly appears on several prestigious “Top Doctors” lists and as a keynote speaker at professional conferences. Our on-site surgery center is fully AAAA-accredited, ensuring a safe and seamless experience. When considering a tummy tuck Los Angeles patients that visit us benefit from our team’s superior techniques and steadfast commitment to personalized care.
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The gallery above depicts before and after images of actual patients. The pictures show improvement in contours after tummy tuck surgery.
A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a popular surgery that tightens and reduces excess skin and fat to improve abdominal contours. A board-certified plastic surgeon creates incision patterns based on surgical preference, patient concern, degree of correction, and treatment areas. At Nazarian Plastic Surgery, incisions are planned with careful attention to placement. The belly button incision is positioned within the natural contours of the navel, while the horizontal tummy tuck incision is placed low on the abdomen whenever anatomy allows.
Patients can expect minimal bruising and swelling post-procedure, and initial results are immediately noticeable. Tummy tuck surgery is highly effective, with high patient satisfaction and a 96% “Worth it” rating on RealSelf. Although a tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss, results are typically long-lasting. At our practice in Los Angeles tummy tuck results in significant tightening and reduction of abdominal skin sagging compared to non-surgical treatment alternatives.
For patients with excess sagging abdominal skin following significant weight loss, Dr. Nazarian may offer the fleur de lis tummy tuck. This abdominoplasty technique utilizes an additional vertical incision extending upward from the horizontal incision made across the lower abdomen. The vertical incision allows the removal of excess skin and fat from both the lower abdomen and the upper abdomen and waist area. This comprehensive approach can result in a more dramatic transformation compared to a traditional tummy tuck.
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, addresses several common concerns related to the midsection:
By removing this excess skin, tightening separated muscles, and contouring the abdomen, a tummy tuck can restore a smooth, firm, and youthfully toned midsection. It essentially reverses many of the physical impacts that pregnancy, aging, and weight changes can have on the abdomen.
Pregnancy and significant changes in weight can stretch the connective tissue between the rectus muscles, allowing the muscles to sit farther apart. This condition, known as diastasis recti, may create a persistent central bulge or a feeling of weakness through the abdomen even after weight has stabilized.
When diastasis recti is present, a tummy tuck can address the deeper abdominal structure as well as excess skin. During surgery, Dr. Nazarian can bring the rectus fascia back toward the midline with internal sutures, a technique called rectus plication. This creates a firmer internal foundation and can produce a flatter, more supported abdominal contour.
Muscle repair is not automatically required with every tummy tuck. The degree of separation, tissue quality, previous surgery, future pregnancy plans, and overall anatomy all inform the surgical plan. Patients with diastasis but little or no excess skin may also benefit from an evaluation to determine whether abdominoplasty is the most appropriate treatment.
A tummy tuck isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about confidence, comfort, and reclaiming your body. Whether due to pregnancy, weight fluctuations, or genetics, excess skin and weakened abdominal muscles can make it challenging to achieve a toned midsection with diet and exercise alone. A tummy tuck addresses these concerns by restoring core strength, eliminating loose skin, and sculpting a more defined waistline.
Beyond the physical transformation, many patients experience an improvement in posture, reduced back pain, and greater ease in wearing fitted clothing. The tummy tuck procedure can also repair diastasis recti (separation of abdominal muscles), which is common after pregnancy.
When considering getting a tummy tuck Beverly Hills patients that come to us, can expect the following benefits:
At our practice in Los Angeles Tummy Tuck surgery is ideal for the following candidates:
Combination Procedures
For those seeking comprehensive body contouring in Beverly Hills tummy tuck can be combined with other procedures to enhance results. Many patients choose to pair their tummy tuck with liposuction to remove stubborn fat pockets and create a more seamless transition between the abdomen and surrounding areas. Others opt for a Mommy Makeover, which often includes breast augmentation, breast lift, or additional body sculpting to restore a pre-pregnancy figure.
When considering a tummy tuck Los Angeles patients often combine it with other procedures such as…
Tummy tuck surgery and liposuction improve the abdomen in different ways. Liposuction removes localized fat through small incisions. It works best when the skin remains elastic enough to contract around the slimmer contour. It does not remove hanging skin, correct stretch-damaged tissue, or repair diastasis recti.
A tummy tuck removes excess abdominal skin and can tighten the internal fascia when the abdominal wall has separated. It is generally the more complete option for patients with skin laxity, a lower abdominal overhang, muscle separation, or a combination of these concerns.
For some patients, the most balanced result comes from combining the procedures. A tummy tuck can restore the central abdominal structure while carefully planned liposuction refines areas such as the waist and flanks. Dr. Nazarian determines the extent of treatment according to skin quality, fat distribution, circulation, and the safest way to create a smooth transition across the torso.
A tummy tuck is a surgical operation to remove excess fat and skin, creating a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. We will provide detailed instructions for preparation and aftercare for your surgery. A tummy tuck surgery is typically an outpatient procedure and can take between 90 minutes to five hours to complete.
Dr. Nazarian may recommend a medical evaluation and lab testing to ensure that you are healthy to undergo surgery.You may be asked to adjust or stop taking certain medications, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not eat or drink after midnight on the day of your procedure.
You will be placed under general anesthesia. Your board-certified plastic surgeon will determine the surgical technique personalized for your specific case before the surgery. Your surgeon will make an incision and tighten and remove excess abdominal tissue and tighten the underlying weakened abdominal muscles to create firmer, more youthful-appearing skin. She will make a horizontal incision between the pubic hairline and navel to repair the underlying weakened abdominal muscles.
Dr. Nazarian will then make a second incision around the navel to remove excess skin in the upper abdominal area. She will pull down and trim excess skin and suture the remaining skin.
She will create a new opening for the navel, placing the incision within its natural contours so the healed scar is as discreet as possible.
For female patients, Dr. Nazarian places the tummy tuck incision low on the abdomen whenever anatomy allows, helping the healed scar remain discreet beneath many underwear and swimsuit styles. This placement can also improve the contour of the mons pubis.
Some tummy tucks may be performed without postoperative drains by using progressive tension sutures during closure. These internal sutures secure the abdominal skin and tissue to the deeper layers in stages. By reducing the open space beneath the skin where fluid could collect, the technique may allow selected patients to recover without managing external drains.
A drain-free approach is not appropriate for every operation. The extent of skin removal, the addition of liposuction, tissue quality, previous surgery, and individual fluid risk all affect the closure plan. Some patients still benefit from temporary drains to support safe healing. Dr. Nazarian will explain which approach is most appropriate after evaluating your anatomy and planned procedure.
A tummy tuck requires a permanent incision, but its position and design can make the healed scar easier to conceal. The primary incision is generally placed low across the abdomen so it falls beneath many underwear and swimsuit styles. Its length depends on how much skin must be removed and whether a standard, extended, or fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is performed.
A full tummy tuck also requires an incision around the navel. Dr. Nazarian carefully places this incision within the natural contours of the belly button to make the healed line as discreet as possible. Patients who require a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck will also have a vertical abdominal scar in exchange for removing substantial horizontal and vertical skin laxity.
Scars commonly look pink, raised, or firm during early healing and gradually soften and fade. Maturation can take a year or longer. Following incision-care instructions, avoiding nicotine, limiting tension on the healing area, and protecting the scar from ultraviolet exposure can support better healing. Once the incision has fully closed and Dr. Nazarian has approved treatment, silicone gel or silicone sheets may be recommended. Additional scar treatments can be considered if a scar remains raised, dark, red, or otherwise prominent.
Patients should expect two to three weeks of recovery time. Dr. Nazarian will prescribe pain medications to reduce soreness after the anesthesia wears off. She will give specific instructions regarding wound care, potential complications, follow-up information, and dates. Swelling gradually subsides, while the incision lines soften and fade as the scars mature over the following year. Avoid smoking and weight fluctuations and maintain a healthy lifestyle to keep your newly contoured abdomen looking its best.
The cost of a tummy tuck at Nazarian Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills is determined by the surgical plan created for you. A standard tummy tuck, extended tummy tuck, fleur-de-lis procedure, muscle repair, and tummy tuck combined with liposuction involve different levels of complexity and operating time.
Your personalized quote will account for the selected technique, the extent of skin and tissue correction, anesthesia, facility charges, and any procedures performed at the same time. Following your consultation, you will receive clear pricing based on the operation Dr. Nazarian recommends rather than a broad estimate that may not reflect your anatomy or goals. Financing options are available for qualified patients.
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is about more than credentials—it’s about trust, artistry, and a commitment to results that look and feel like you, only more confident. Dr. Sheila Nazarian is a board-certified plastic surgeon known for her meticulous technique and natural-looking transformations. Whether she’s refining abdominal contours or creating a full-body transformation, she brings precision and an eye for balance to every procedure.
Dr. Nazarian’s expertise has been featured in Forbes, Allure, Glamour, and The Doctors, making her one of the most sought-after voices in aesthetic medicine. As a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, she upholds the highest standards of safety and care.
At Nazarian Plastic Surgery, we go beyond surgery—we’re here to support your journey from consultation to recovery. Our team ensures you feel heard, confident, and empowered every step of the way, so your results aren’t just beautiful—they’re unmistakably yours.
A tummy tuck is an operation that tightens weakened abdominal muscles and removes excess fat and skin, creating a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. The procedure is performed by our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Sheila Nazarian, who creates incision patterns based on surgical preference, patient concern, degree of correction, and treatment areas.
On average, you will likely need at least two weeks. If you have a super strenuous job, you may need more time, or you may need to dial things back at work for a while. We can give you a better idea of exactly what to expect in terms of your recovery after we see you in-person during your consultation.
Yes and no. You will definitely notice the change in your body contour immediately. But you will also be swollen and bruised following your tummy tuck surgery. It is the price we pay for a flat stomach. It can take anywhere from three to six months for your swelling to fully subside. So, the final results may take a while, but you will look better and better during that period. An abdominoplasty requires a bit of patience, but the payoff is well worth it.
Most tummy tuck patients find the recovery really tolerable. Dr. Nazarian injects long-lasting local anesthetic to give you an abdominal nerve block during surgery, and this helps a lot! Yes, you will have some discomfort. At the aftercare facility, they will give you narcotics to take that really help curb the pain. Most of our patients stay there for three days – these are the most uncomfortable days. We will prescribe prescription pain medications as well as antibiotics to take at the aftercare facility and when you go home.
Yes. However, liposuction can only address the excess fat. It will do nothing for loose skin. We often combine liposuction with a minimally invasive procedure called BodyTite to tighten the skin. Though fantastic, this combination will not affect any laxity in the muscles. A tummy tuck is the gold standard for a reason. The right choice is going to depend on your needs and ability to tolerate downtime. Sometimes, patients decide on a more moderate procedure that they know won’t deliver a totally flat stomach because it is simply easier for their current lifestyle. Just make sure to manage your expectations appropriately.
Tummy tuck results are immediately visible after your procedure. However, it may take months to notice the final results due to the swelling that arises post-operatively. Results are long-lasting, provided that you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
The tummy tuck is a popular procedure performed under general anesthesia to tighten weakened abdominal muscles and remove excess fat and skin, creating a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. Patients can expect minimal bruising and swelling post-procedure and approximately two weeks of recovery. Full results develop gradually over several months.
Since tummy tuck surgery requires general anesthesia, you will not experience pain during the procedure. However, recovery might be uncomfortable, and the level of discomfort varies based on each patient. Your plastic surgeon will ensure adequate analgesia after your procedure.
Tummy tuck surgery is not ideal for smokers or patients with unstable weight, excess visceral fat, blood-clotting disorders, and underlying medical conditions. Patients who are physically unhealthy are also poor candidates for tummy tuck surgery. We require post-operative medical clearance by medical doctors to ensure that you are healthy to undergo surgery.
Although minimal bruising and swelling are expected after a tummy tuck, initial results can be seen immediately after your treatment. Tummy Tuck surgery is highly effective, with high patient satisfaction and a 96% “Worth it” rating on realself.com.
Tummy tuck results are immediately visible after your procedure. However, it may take months for the final effects to develop fully. Results are considered permanent, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.
Patients may experience:
Tummy tuck surgery is an operation performed by our board-certified plastic surgeon to create a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. It can also help restore strength to a weak core, improve flexibility, and correct chronic irritants such as poor posture and lower back pain. Sometimes, hernias can also be repaired at the same time.
“I am one year post-op from a tummy tuck...and although my scar is still healing (I'm slow to recover), the incision and skills of Dr. Nazarian will leave me with a perfectly flat and barely noticeable scar. I am from out of state and have since been back to LA for facial and arm lift consults. I trust her skills completely, and she is just an all-around amazing soul inside and out!” —Lynnette A., Overland Park, KS
“Dr Nazarian has changed my life! I had a tummy tuck in May, and I have never felt and looked better. I had read about how painful the recovery can be, but that wasn't my experience. I never felt any pain—just some tightness, but no pain! We talked about my diet before and after the surgery. My recovery has really been easy breezy! I wanted this procedure for 20 years, and I wish I had done it sooner. At my last visit before my surgery, I asked her If I needed my breast and butt done as well! She told me my 46-year-old breasts were fine and to do squats! I'm forever grateful to her for my almost six-pack. She is a rockstar! God blessed me with the right surgeon!”—Chanda M., Los Angeles, CA
Yes. When abdominal muscle separation is present, a tummy tuck can include rectus plication. During this step, internal sutures bring the stretched abdominal fascia toward the midline, creating a firmer foundation beneath the skin. Not every patient needs muscle repair, so Dr. Nazarian evaluates the abdominal wall during consultation before recommending it.
Tummy tuck pricing varies according to the type of abdominoplasty, the amount of correction required, whether diastasis recti needs repair, and whether liposuction or another procedure is included. Nazarian Plastic Surgery provides an individualized quote after consultation so the estimate reflects the complete surgical plan. Financing options are available for qualified patients.
Not necessarily. Progressive tension sutures may make a drain-free tummy tuck possible for selected patients by closing the space where fluid could otherwise collect. Other surgical plans may still require temporary drains. The decision depends on the extent of surgery, whether liposuction is included, tissue quality, and individual healing considerations.
The primary tummy tuck scar is usually positioned low across the abdomen, where it can often be covered by underwear or swimwear. A full tummy tuck also creates a scar around the belly button. Extended and fleur-de-lis procedures require longer or additional incisions. Dr. Nazarian reviews the anticipated scar pattern with you before surgery.
Yes. Liposuction is often combined with tummy tuck surgery when fat around the waist, flanks, or adjacent areas would otherwise interrupt the abdominal contour. The tummy tuck removes excess skin and can repair muscle separation, while liposuction provides more focused fat reduction. The extent of combined treatment is planned around anatomy and safety.
Most patients should wait at least six months after giving birth, and many benefit from waiting nine to twelve months. Your weight should be stable, your body should have recovered from pregnancy, and breastfeeding-related hormonal changes should have settled. Because another pregnancy can stretch the repaired tissues, it is generally best to schedule a tummy tuck after completing your family.
A tummy tuck removes stretch marks only when they are located on skin that is excised, most often between the belly button and the pubic area. Stretch marks outside the removed tissue will remain, although tightening and repositioning the surrounding skin may make some of them less noticeable. The anticipated change can be evaluated during your examination.
