Cosmetic surgery continues to rise in popularity, with more people turning to surgery to achieve their dream shape and look. Tummy tucks, also known as abdominoplasty, consistently rank among the top procedures completed in the U.S. each year, and for good reason. Completed with skill and precision, a tummy tuck can be a life-altering surgery, reviving the confidence, happiness, and health that often leave us when we are not comfortable in our own skin. This can be due to changes in the body after pregnancy, such as excess abdominal skin, diastasis (abdominal muscle separation), and stretched-out abdominal muscles, or the retention of excess skin after losing weight.
Dr. Steven Svehlak and Dr. Daniel Yamini are known as some of the best tummy tuck surgeons in Beverly Hills. As double board-certified plastic surgeons, they have the training, artistry, and experience to create outstanding and natural-looking results for their patients.
An abdominoplasty, tummy tuck, can include several techniques surgeons use to bring in or flatten the tummy. An incision is made across the lower abdomen to access the underlying tissues and cut away excess skin. Strong internal stitches are used to tighten the abdominal muscle layer to create an internal ‘corset’. In most cases, an incision is used to create a new opening for the belly button. Once the underlying muscles and tissues have been stitched and repositioned, the remaining skin is draped over the new contours, trimmed, and sutured in place. Surgeons often aim for incisions to be made below the bikini line; however, patients with large amounts of excess skin often require extended incisions.
If you have minimal excess skin, or your only concern is in the lower abdominal region, a mini tummy tuck could be appropriate for you. This involves a smaller, single incision and is a less-involved surgery. That said, we rarely use this technique because the incision and tummy tuck scar are essentially the same length as a full tummy tuck, but you don’t achieve the same results. We often can’t tighten all the abdominal muscles with a mini, so a full abdominoplasty is frequently the better choice.
Tummy Tucks BEFORE & AFTERS
before
after
This patient had multiple pregnancies and developed significant looseness of her abdominal muscles and abdominal skin. Dr. Dan Yamini did a traditional tummy tuck to repair the loose bulging abdominal muscles and to make her abdominal skin much tighter. Dr. Dan Yamini also did liposuction of the love handles to enhance her curves.
Procedure : Tummy Tuck
Surgeon : Dr. Yamini
before
after
This patient had a mommy makeover, she had multiple pregnancies and had saggy breasts and loose abdominal skin and muscles. She had a tummy tuck and a mastopexy breast lift.
Procedure : TUMMY TUCK & BREAST LIFT (MASTOPEXY)
Surgeon : Dr. Yamini
before
after
This patient had a baby and developed skin looseness, muscle looseness, and stretch marks after pregnancy. Dr. Dan Yamini decided to do a tummy tuck, skin tightening throughout the abdomen and thighs.
Procedure : Tummy Tuck
Surgeon : Dr. Yamini
before
After 5 Weeks
This is a 41 y.o. mother from Hacienda Heights, CA, who had significant abdominal wall and body changes after having children. She consulted with Dr. Svehlak to review her concerns. She mostly wanted improvement in her lower abdominal wall.
Dr. Svehlak performed a mini tummy tuck (mini abdominoplasty) with liposuction and contouring of her abdominal wall, flanks, and mid/lower back areas. The mini tummy tuck creates a shorter lower abdominal scar. She was very pleased with the final results because the loose lower abdominal wall skin was eliminated.
Procedure : Mini Tummy Ruck (Mini Abdominoplasty) with Liposuction + Contouring of her abdominal wall, flanks, and mid/lower back areas.
Surgeon : Dr. Svehlak
before
After 15 Months
This is a 40 y.o female from Bellflower, CA, a child via C-section. She works out to help slim and tone her mid-section. She found it very difficult to obtain the result she wanted just by exercising and diet. She saw Dr. Svehlak in consultation to discuss her concerns for a mommy makeover.
Dr. Svehlak found during her evaluation that her abdominal wall muscles were very loose, with loose and stretched skin. Dr Svehlak performed a full tummy tuck in which the abdominal wall muscles were tightened with multiple layers of stitches (like an internal Corset). The outside loose skin and fat was also removed. Additional liposuction and contouring was done on the abdominal wall andflanks. The result was much improved curvey contours, a flatter tighter abdomen, and a low bikini line scar. She also had a mole from her right flank removed. She was very happy with the results.
Procedure : Full Tummy Tuck + Liposuction
Surgeon : Dr. Svehlak
before
after
Dual plane breast augmentation with a tummy tuck and some liposuction.
This is a 49 y.o. female from Idaho who previously had a C-section and liposuction done on her abdominal wall and flanks. This left her with irregular skin contours on her abdominal wall. She sought after Dr. Svehlak for evaluation after seeing Tara Reid on the Tyra Banks show discussing her experiences with previous body contouring surgery.
Dr. Svehlak performed a fat transfer procedure 1 year ago where fat was removed (harvested) form the lower back and flanks, and carefully transferred (grafted) into the contour irregularities of the abdominal wall. A total of 127cc of autologous fat was transferred during thisliposuction revision surgery. There was significant improvement. She was happy with the results.
Now she wanted to improve the looseness in the abdominal wall skin and muscle. Dr. Svehlak performed an abdominoplasty to address and remove the loose skin, and tighten her muscles.
Procedure : Tummy Tuck + Liposuction Revision Surgery
Surgeon : Dr. Svehlak
before
After 1 Year
This is a 44 y.o female from West LA who a child via C-section about 3 years prior. She had been working out to help slim and tone her mid-section. She found it very difficult to obtain the result she wanted just by exercising and diet. She saw Dr. Svehlak in consultation to discuss her concerns for a mommy makeover.
Dr. Svehlak found during her evaluation that her abdominal wall muscles were very loose, with loose and stretched skin. Dr svehlak performed a full tummy tuck in which the abdominal wall muscles were tightened with multiple layers of stitches (like an internal Corset). The outside loose skin and fat was also removed. Additional liposuction and contouring was done on the abdominal wall, lower back, flanks and hips, inner thighs, and outer thighs. The result was much improved curvey contours, a flatter tighter abdomen, a low bikini line scar, and a nearly imperceptable belly button scar. She was very happy with the results.
These tummy tuck photos show pre and post-op results from full tummy tucks (abdominoplasty) that included tightening of the abdominal muscles, liposculpture for contouring, and removal of excess skin.
Understanding what to expect before, during, and after a tummy tuck can help you feel more confident and prepared throughout your surgical journey.
Consultation and Planning
Your tummy tuck journey begins with a consultation, where your surgeon, Dr. Yamini or Dr. Svehlak, will discuss your goals, medical history, and concerns. They will assess excess skin, fat, and abdominal muscle separation before recommending a personalized treatment plan. This is also an opportunity to learn more about the procedure, tummy tuck recovery process, and expected results.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, your surgeon and care team will ensure you feel comfortable and well-prepared. After anesthesia is administered, your surgeon will carefully mark the treatment area to guide the procedure and help achieve the best possible outcome. We often use one of the newest technologies when we perform tummy tucks, tissue adhesives. When we pull the skin down over the abdominal muscle, the skin adheres nicely and tightly, giving you a great look. The healing process is quicker, the risk of abnormal swelling is minimized, and the skin sits much tighter on top of the muscle, so you can see the outlines and contours of the body much better.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most patients should plan for 1–2 weeks of recovery away from work and strenuous activities. It is recommended that a family member or friend assist you for the first few days following surgery. Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions to support healing and recovery.
Some swelling, bruising, tightness, and discomfort are normal after a tummy tuck. These effects can typically be managed with prescribed medications, compression garments, and, when necessary, temporary surgical drains. Your surgeon will monitor your progress and guide you throughout the healing process.
What Makes a Good Tummy Tuck Candidate?
A common misconception of tummy tucks is that they can remove a lot of unwanted weight. However, this is not true. While some fat can be removed from the abdomen during the procedure, this surgery is ideal for people who have reached or are near their goal weight but remain unhappy with the way their tummy looks, or have excess skin from weight loss or childbirth.
An ideal candidate is:
Healthy
Not too overweight (10 to 50 lbs)
Does not have diabetes or other major medical conditions
Is well motivated for this change
Has realistic expectations and understands the risks
It is also recommended that patients do not smoke or refrain from smoking for up to two weeks before and after surgery.
At your consultation, your surgeon will undertake a thorough assessment of your abdomen and skin. You’ll be able to discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations, as well as ask any questions you may have. You can expect a comfortable and informative experience during your consultation – the team at Sunset Cosmetic Surgery is committed to helping you every step of the way.
Risks & Safety Considerations
A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure, and like all surgeries, it carries inherent risk. Dr. Svehlak and Dr. Yamini take a thorough, safety-first approach to every case, candidacy screening, pre-operative preparation, and careful technique all serve to minimize complications.
Common risks include:
Swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness
Seroma (fluid accumulation), typically managed with drainage
Infection, scarring, or delayed wound healing
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — mitigated through compression support
Will I Have Tummy a Tuck Scar?
A tummy tuck scar is the trade-off for a flatter, more contoured abdomen. The scar from a full abdominoplasty runs horizontally across the lower abdomen, typically placed low enough to be concealed beneath underwear or a bikini bottom. A small scar around the belly button is also typical.
In the first few months, tummy tuck scars may appear raised, pink, or red. Over time, typically six to twelve months, scars fade and flatten significantly. At Sunset Cosmetic Surgery, advanced closure techniques and tissue adhesives minimize tension at the incision line. Patients are guided through scar management options, including silicone scar sheets, sun protection, and massage therapy, and laser treatments are available for persistent discoloration or texture.
Procedures That Pair Well With a Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck is often the centerpiece of a broader body contouring plan. Combining procedures in a single surgical session, when safe and appropriate, reduces overall recovery time and delivers more harmonious results. At your consultation, Dr. Svehlak or Dr. Yamini will advise which combinations are right for you.
The two procedures complement each other naturally. Liposuction addresses areas that the tummy tuck incision doesn’t directly reach, including the flanks, waist, outer thighs, and back, creating a more sculpted overall contour. Where significant fat is harvested, your surgeon may also discuss whether that fat is suitable for transfer to areas such as the buttocks or hips, further enhancing your overall shape without the need for implants.
Patients who have lost breast volume following pregnancy or weight loss often pair a tummy tuck with breast augmentation (with or without a lift) for a comprehensive upper and lower body restoration.
The mommy makeover typically includes a tummy tuck plus one or more breast procedures, and may incorporate liposuction or other contouring. At Sunset Cosmetic Surgery, each Mommy Makeover is built around the individual patient.
Not all procedure combinations are appropriate for every patient. The safest and most effective plan is built around your health status, anatomy, and goals. Your surgeon will outline what is recommended and what is not during your consultation.
What Sets Sunset Cosmetic Surgery’s Tummy Tuck in Beverly Hills Apart
We are committed to patient safety and patient comfort, and this is one of our main priorities. We ensure that patients are healing properly and that there are no complications. We often have a patient stay in our recovery center so that we can make sure their recovery is smooth.
One of our unique offers is the option to see both Dr. Svehlak and Dr. Yamini in your consultation and receive their combined expertise when considering if a tummy tuck is suitable for you. As leading cosmetic surgeons in West Hollywood, they strive to provide the best possible experience throughout your personal journey.
A tummy tuck can be a life-changing surgery – helping to restore confidence, strength, and vitality. If you’re considering a tummy tuck or would like to explore your options, contact Dr. Svehlak and Dr. Yamini to book a consultation.
Let Us Help You, Together we will Elevate Your Beauty
FAQs
Will a tummy tuck give me a flat stomach?
In many cases, yes. Every tummy tuck is different, and your final result will depend on your starting appearance, overall health, and ability to maintain or lose weight. However, the majority of patients see a drastic improvement and an excellent platform on which to build further muscle, strength, and tone.
How much is a tummy tuck in Los Angeles?
Due to the personalized nature of each surgery, pricing varies between patients. We offer several payment options, as well as the ability to finance your treatment with a full range of extended payment plans through CareCredit®.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate?
There is a simple test to do to see if you have too much visceral fat in the abdominal area to do the procedure. If you have too much visceral fat, you may need to diet and exercise to bring this down before we can safely perform the procedure. If you have excess visceral fat in the abdominal area, and we need to sew the muscles tight on someone who has too much visceral fat, abnormal bulges will form on the sides, and you won’t achieve a nice flat look for your tummy area.
What is the difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck is simply the removal of a small amount of excess skin from the bottom part of the abdomen. We rarely use this technique because the incision and scar are essentially the same as a tummy tuck, but you don’t get the same results. Often, you can’t tighten up all the abdominal muscles with a mini tummy tuck, so we often select a full abdominoplasty.
What other procedures can I have?
At your consultation, your surgeon may recommend alternative or supplementary procedures to help you achieve your ideal look – including:
The thigh lift, for removing excess skin and fat in the thigh and knee areas, and
Liposuction, for the removal of excess fat and creating the best overall body contours
Can I have a tummy tuck after a C-section?
After a cesarean section, some women find they are unable to shift weight in their tummy area or have excess skin in the form of a ‘pouch’. A tummy tuck is certainly attainable after a C-section; however, we recommend you wait for at least six months following birth, as well as consult with your doctor and surgeon before proceeding.
What is tummy tuck recovery like, and how long does it take?
After a tummy tuck, it is advised that you rest for 1–2 weeks. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are all manageable with the medications, abdominal binders, and aftercare instructions your surgeon provides.
What does a tummy tuck scar look like?
A full abdominoplasty leaves a horizontal scar across the lower abdomen, placed low enough to fall beneath underwear or a bikini bottom. Scars are initially pink and raised, fading and flattening significantly over six to twelve months with proper scar care, including silicone sheets, massage, and sun protection.
What is panniculectomy vs. tummy tuck?
A panniculectomy removes a hanging fold of skin from the lower abdomen for functional medical reasons. It does not tighten muscles or reposition the belly button. A tummy tuck is cosmetic: it achieves muscle tightening, skin removal, and abdominal contouring. Panniculectomy may qualify for insurance coverage when medically necessary; tummy tucks are rarely covered.
How do you prepare for a tummy tuck?
Your surgeon will provide a full pre-operative checklist at your consultation. General preparation includes achieving a stable weight, stopping smoking for at least two weeks before and after surgery, avoiding blood-thinning medications, and arranging for aftercare assistance for the first few days of recovery.
How long does a tummy tuck take?
A standard tummy tuck takes approximately two to four hours. Procedures combined with liposuction or other body contouring surgeries will take longer. Your surgeon will give you a personalized estimate at your consultation.
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Daniel Yamini, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Dan Yamini is a double board-certified plastic surgeon and general surgeon specializing in aesthetic breast, body, and facial procedures, including breast augmentation, tummy tuck, liposuction, and facelift surgery. Serving Los Angeles and Beverly Hills since 2002, he is known for delivering safe and natural-looking results with compassionate and patient-centered care. Dr. Yamini has had extensive training at elite institutions including Stanford University and UCLA.
Dr. Steven Svehlak is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in facial rejuvenation and body contouring, including facelift, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, and liposuction. He is known for techniques that prioritize natural results, minimal scarring, and refined outcomes. He treats patients across Los Angeles and Beverly Hills with a personalized, patient-focused approach.
