Tummy Tuck San Diego

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Why Everyone Wants the Feel Beautiful Tummy Tuck

Dr. Steve Laverson is passionate about sexy tummy tuck results.

As a leading San Diego tummy tuck surgeon Dr. Steve Laverson knows that femininity and maternity go together. Our mission is for Moms to show their shape, to wear what they want, and to feel confident and sexy. Tummy tuck is a commitment of time for recovery, money, and risk. The surgical investment can only be justified by a naturally beautiful result. Dr. Laverson adds features to the traditional operation for “fitness” abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) contours. This operation is not for everyone, and not all features are recommended for all patients. The ideal candidate is a healthy woman with good skin quality, a weak or bulging abdominal wall after pregnancy, normal body weight, and who wants a more sculpted abdominal surface simulating more fit appearance than most tummy tuck doctors offer.

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, “abdominoplasty”, is a surgical procedure most often sought by women with post-pregnancy stretching of abdominal skin and/or the abdominal wall. Other post-pregnancy changes can also be improved by tummy tuck. The procedure narrows the waist, flattens and shapes the midriff, removes loose skin, changes the belly button, and slims the abdominal profile. Loose skin and excess fat are removed and the abdominal connective tissue envelope is tightened. Fit, attractive, youthful contours with an hourglass body shape, a nice belly button, and a hidden scar are goals. Every woman has a unique situation and personal aesthetic requests.

How much is a Tummy Tuck?

The cost of tummy tuck surgery is between $12,500 to $18,500 (financing available)

Our tummy tuck (abdominoplasty surgery):

Brief delay procedure 2 weeks before tummy tuck
Shorter lower scar, 6-12 inches, hidden behind bikini bottom
Surface contouring simulates abdominal fitness
Internal four-layer “power-suture” stability
Closure simulates fitness and improves scar quality
Sculpted belly button and scar concealment
Premium strong comfortable waist trainer or faja daily (or almost daily) for 5 months after procedure

Some of these elements of our procedure were originated by Dr. Laverson and some were originated by other surgeons and modified by Dr. Laverson. Not all of the above are included in all tummy tucks, depending on the situation. Our Feel Beautiful Plastic Surgery San Diego tummy tuck is more detailed and individualized than average. Our core ambitions are caring, your satisfaction, and natural beauty. Higher quality may cost more. We believe you are worth it, and the results you have over your lifetime justify the added investment.

Steve Laverson MD, Feel Beautiful Plastic Surgery

16903 Avenida De Acacias, Rancho Santa Fe

4.6 87 reviews

Cherise Jacobs ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
Dr Laverson at Feel Beautiful Plastic Surgery is a very skilled surgeon! He's the Best! He also is Amazing at Botox and Fillers! I had an Upper Lip Lift, this is a great and quick procedure done in his office with little downtime. … More Permanent younger looking lips! I highly recommend this procedure!
Vera Khalitova ★★★★★ 5 months ago
I’ve had a fantastic experience with Dr Laverson and his team. Very competent, professional, communicative, and trustworthy. I love my results already even though they’re not fully healed and can’t stop looking in the mirror! I’m incredibly … More happy and grateful.
Cindy Bowman ★★★★★ 5 months ago
I had a procedure at Feel Beautiful. Dr. Laverson was extremely attentive and addressed all my concerns. I was nervous on my first appointment and had a lot of questions. He took the time to answer each question in detail. The entire … More staff at Feel Beautiful are kind and caring. My surgery is beautiful and I would highly recommend Dr. Laverson at Feel Beautiful for any cosmetic surgery.

Patient Testimonial

A bikini pic I took the other day. The incision is soo low it’s undetectable even in my lowest cut bikini."

Actual Patient

Tummy Tuck Before & After Pic

Among innovations in body contouring surgery, the “fitness” tummy tuck San Diego technique is adopted by Dr. Steve Laverson at his Feel Beautiful Plastic Surgery Center for a more sculpted abdominal shape than traditional approaches. The operation adds specific elements that require an “iterative” approach, making adjustments during the procedure based on the effect of each step.

How much does a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Cost?

The cost of tummy tuck surgery is between $12,500 to $18,500 (financing available)

In general, the more extensive the amount of skin and fat to be removed during the procedure, the more a tummy tuck will cost. But it’s impossible to give an estimate on your tummy tuck cost without a physical examination and a discussion about your desired outcome. The tummy tuck cost varies widely from person to person, depending on a number of factors, including:

Type of tummy tuck performed
Type of anesthesia or sedation used
Medical tests required
Hospital fees
Post-surgical garments
Surgeon’s fees
Prescriptions for medications

When you come in for a consultation with Dr. Laverson, he’ll be able to give you a clearer idea of how much you can expect to pay for your tummy tuck.

Join the Many Moms Who Want to Bare Their Fit Midriff !

Schedule a Free Tummy Tuck Consultation at (858) 295-4001

What are the Different Types of Tummy Tucks?

Tummy tuck surgery is not one-size-fits-all. To solve a range of midriff cosmetic issues, we perform several types of tummy tucks:

Mini Tummy Tuck

Mini tummy tuck, also known as mini-abdominoplasty, improves the lower belly by removing excess skin and fat below the navel. This may go along with liposuction of waist and other areas.

Full tummy tuck

Full tummy tuck improves upper and lower abdomen by removing excess fat and loose skin, and tightening connective tissue of the abdominal wall.

Modified tummy tuck

Modified tummy tuck improves both the upper and lower abdomen as well as the flanks and love handles for women who may not have sufficient loose skin for traditional full tummy tuck.

Dr. Laverson, a board certified plastic surgeon in San Diego, classifies female abdomens into one of five categories. Depending on your situation and needs, he will recommend a type I, type II, type III, type IV, or type V abdominoplasty. If there is bulging flank fat, liposuction may also be recommended to narrow, slim, and visually lengthen the waist.

What is unique about Dr. Laverson’s tummy tuck procedure?

Dr. Laverson applies several innovative techniques to shorten and lower the scar for minimal visibility, and to simulate fit abdominal contours as part of his unique tummy tuck procedure. His fitness technique sculptures surface contours over an internal four-layer “power suture” that stabilizes the tightened abdominal wall.

What to Expect on Your Tummy Tuck

Dr. Laverson approaches each abdomen individually. The techniques incorporated depend on the condition of your abdomen and your aesthetic priorities. Every “Mommy Tummy” procedure begins with a tummy tuck consultation. During your consultation, Dr. Laverson will review your medical history, and will ask if you plan on future pregnancies. He will physically examine you to evaluate several factors such as your skin elasticity, thickness of your fat layer, state of your abdominal muscles, past surgery, abdominal scars, hernias, stretch marks, and your belly button.

Dr. Laverson listens and will understand what you want.

Dr. Laverson listens and will understand what you want. He will answer your tummy tuck related questions, discuss your expectations, and present you with choices for achieving your desired appearance. In some cases, Dr. Laverson may recommend a brief procedure two weeks before your scheduled tummy tuck surgery as an additional safety measure.

On the Day of Your Surgery

On the day of your tummy tuck surgery, you’ll be served by nursing staff and an expert anesthesiologist. You will know in advance everything that will happen.

Type 1 and type 2 tummy tucks are short low scars with less skin removal.
Type 3 and 4 tummy tuck have slightly longer scars, but they’re still low and in the bikini line.
Type 5 tummy tuck is usually after massive weight loss. These women and men require large amounts of skin removal and longer scars are required.

Dr. Laverson goes beyond the traditional types of tummy tuck

Dr. Laverson goes beyond the traditional types of tummy tuck, such as mini tummy tuck, full tummy tuck, and extended tummy tuck. Those procedures often result in flat abdominal appearance, but with less natural contours and longer higher scars than are necessary
Dr. Laverson removes excess skin and fat as determined by your surgical plan and tightens your abdominal connective tissue to correct bulging and flatten your abdomen. He will also artistically shape your abdominal skin surface and belly button, and make every effort to locate scars where they’ll be hidden behind your preferred swimwear and intimate wear.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) FAQs

What is an abdominoplasty?

An abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck, is a surgical procedure in which the abdomen is tightened and flattened. It is a popular option for patients who are interested in repairing some of the effects of aging and pregnancy. Tummy tuck narrows the waist, removes excess lower abdominal skin and fat below the belly button, and shapes the abdominal surface for a more youthful, fit-looking contour.

Does Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck/mommy tuck) eliminate “stretch marks” from my pregnancy?

If the stretch marks (striae) are located in on the lower abdomen (below the belly button) then they will be removed by abdominoplasty. Typically, all of the skin from just above the navel to the pubic region is removed. This skin often contains stretch marks and redundant skin. The upper skin (above the belly button) is then stretched down to the pubis to cover the entire abdomen, contoured, trimmed to fit, and closed. If stretch marks are above the belly button or on other areas like the hips and/or buttocks, tummy tuck may move these stretch marks and decrease their visibility.

Does Dr. Laverson do “lipoabdominoplasty?”

Lipoabdominoplasty implies the addition of liposuction (fat removal by suction cannula) to conventional abdominoplasty. On occasion, if you want and will benefit from liposuction of flanks, thighs, waist, or other areas, YES, Dr. Laverson will reduce this excess fat by liposuction at the time of abdominoplasty to improve your satisfaction with the shape of your body. Regarding liposuction of the abdominal wall, NO, he does not, because Dr. Laverson believes liposuction superimposed upon abdominal wall surgery increases risks without significantly improving results. Instead, he contours the deep surface of the abdominoplasty under direct vision to produce the fit look he’s known for, believing this more effective and advanced than lipoabdominoplasty.

When can I return to normal activities after tummy tuck?

You will walk slowly around your home during the week after tummy tuck. Walking outside the home, driving, and light activities are resumed the second week following your procedure. More vigorous walking, weight training with upper and lower body, and other sporting activities not involving exertion of your core abdominal muscles usually begin four weeks after tummy tuck surgery. Intense exertion such as distance running, athletic dancing, active sports, competition, and core exercises are possible beginning three months following tummy tuck.

Tummy Tuck Recovery and Results

After tummy tuck, you’ll be supplied with a snug abdominal binder and all necessary medications for pain, muscle relaxation, and sleep, if necessary. Dr. Laverson will provide post-operative care instructions to follow at home. You can expect to be inactive for a week or two, with limited mobility and difficulty bending, lifting, or standing for long periods of time. The length of your recovery period will depend in part on the extent of your tummy tuck surgery, but you may need to take a week or two before you resume driving, two to four weeks off work, and six weeks or more before resuming your fitness routine. Core exercises and competitive sports should be avoided for a minimum of two months to facilitate stress free healing.

For the best body shape and the least scar visibility, follow our recommended post-operative routine, including application of a waist trainer or faja body shaper daily, and silicone tape to help your scar disappear. Want to see actual results? Check out our Tummy Tuck Before and After page.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: What’s Right for You?

A tummy tuck removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles, while liposuction focuses on fat removal without addressing loose skin. If you have sagging skin after weight loss or pregnancy, a tummy tuck may be the better option. However, for patients with good skin elasticity looking to sculpt stubborn fat, liposuction can provide great results. In some cases, combining both procedures offers the best outcome for a smoother, more contoured midsection.

Am I A Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Tummy tuck surgery is not a method of weight loss. Some fat is removed during the procedure, but tummy tuck produces the best outcome for women who are at or near their ideal weight and need help tightening loose, sagging skin and a bulging abdominal wall after pregnancy. Excess skin and fat are reduced by the tummy tuck procedure.

The ideal tummy tuck candidate:

Is in overall good health
Is at a stable weight
Has had a baby or lost a significant amount of weight
Has loose, sagging skin around the abdomen
Is not planning to become pregnant
Has realistic expectations

Pregnancy after tummy tuck does not present any health risks, but there’s also no way to ensure that your tummy tuck results will last through a pregnancy. So if you’re planning to become pregnant again, it’s best to postpone your tummy tuck surgery until after you’re finished having children.

Expose Your Abdominal Muscles With a Tummy Tuck in San Diego

Our plastic surgery mission is for everyone to Feel Beautiful and confident in their body. For a slimmer profile and a sexy, flat belly, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) surgery might be right for you. Most of our patients after surgery have a fit, trim, attractive abdomen that supports body confidence in or out of clothing. For more information about Tummy Tuck or other body contouring procedures, call Feel Beautiful Plastic Surgery at (858) 295-4001 to schedule virtual or office consultation today.

The Rancho Santa Fe San Diego office of Dr. Steve Laverson serves Moms in metropolitan San Diego, Carlsbad, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Encinitas, Escondido, Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Penasquitos, Del Sur, La Jolla, LaJolla, Orange County, Los Angeles, and women travelling for surgery. If you’re considering Tummy Tuck or Mini Tummy Tuck surgery in the San Diego, CA area, our cosmetic and plastic surgery clinic in Rancho Santa Fe, CA maintains high standards for surgical performance and compassionate care.

Abdominoplasty Testimonials

I’m not one to write reviews, however I found myself relying heavily on others when deciding on a doctor for a tummy tuck~ so thank you writers- I’m compelled to write this review not only because Dr. Laverson is so great but for those seeking good information to make the right decision ~on what can be a scary venture. It’s not by accident that Dr Laverson is one of the top reviewed surgeons. Before my procedure I read Dr. Laverson’s reviews and was impressed by the number of times I read the words “artist” “thorough” and “detail oriented” ~I concur with all. Within 10 minutes of our consult with Dr Laverson my husband and I knew we had our guy. He is very sweet, easy to relate to, and very capable! Dr. Laverson is also a magician. He took a breastbone to pubic bone scar that was due to a kidney operation 40 years ago, and turned it into a beautiful thin line that is looking better than I could have ever imagined. Getting this tummy tuck has been one of the best decisions; I’m so thankful I chose Dr. Laverson. Certain things stick out about Dr. Laverson for me: He talks fondly about his other patients~ he knows their stories- they mean something to him; he is just a really nice guy! He also has a competent and efficient staff. Jennifer was instrumental in getting me scheduled so I would have the recovery time needed before returning to work. The whole staff is wonderful~ They come from a place of YES! And the new facility in Sorrento Valley is absolutely amazing! Its designed to make you “feel beautiful” Thank You Dr. Laverson!

After having my daughter, I tried to get rid of my belly fat and it just wasn't working. A friend of mine suggested I go and see Dr. Laverson. He suggested I do a full tummy tuck and I'm so glad that I did it. I'm so amazed at my results and it was so well worth my time and money! I feel so good about my body and my self esteem is high! Dr. Laverson and his staff are so wonderful, they make me feel so comfortable and at ease. Thank you so much, Dr. Laverson! I shall recommend you to all of my girlfriends who want to look hot again and wear a bikini!

Dr. Laverson’s office is so comfortable. The office staff is well organized and I felt at ease immediately while checking in for my first appointment. Amber was very friendly and helped calm my nerves. This was my 4th appointment with a local plastic surgeon but I still was a bit nervous. My goal was to do my do diligence and find the best doctor for my tummy tuck. I have been researching for the past 4 months up until my appointment with Dr. Laverson. He was by far the best doctor. He is so knowledgeable, confident, honest and generous with his time. He really listened to what my goals were and offered his opinion and expert advise. He never tried to “up sell”, he was very honest and made suggestions. After all of the consults I have been through, Dr. Laverson is the only surgeon I will trust to perform my surgery. I have met with him several times and I look forward to my appointments. I enjoy my time with the office staff, especially Amber, and the nurses. I have recommended Dr. Laverson to both my mother and my sister. They have the same trust in him that I do and we all consult him. He is an expert, honest and amazingly gifted at his profession of making us all look and feel our very best.

Tummy Tuck San Diego

Why Everyone Wants the Feel Beautiful Tummy Tuck

What is a tummy tuck?