Let’s face it, there are a lot of plastic surgeons out there who can do this operation. But what makes one surgeon better than another? In our experience, it’s all about their experience and training. The more experience a surgeon has performing tummy tucks (and other procedures), the more likely they are to have performed procedures similar to yours before, which means they’ll be able to anticipate your unique needs and provide you with expert care tailored specifically for your body type and goals.
So how do you find the best tummy tuck surgeon in Los Angeles? Well, first of all: don’t just go with whoever is closest to your home or work! Instead, look for someone who has been certified by either the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS). This means that both organizations have reviewed this doctor’s credentials and determined that he or she meets high standards for education, training
Read on to learn more about Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon In Los Angeles, Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Best Tummy Tuck Surgeon In Los Angeles
Los Angeles tummy tuck specialist Dr. David Stoker creates a dramatic improvement for patients concerned about loose abdominal skin, excess fat, and stretch marks after pregnancy or other significant weight loss. This comprehensive tummy tuck produces an hourglass shape that enhances a patient’s natural curves.
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Case #101
This 46-year-old New Yorker knew she needed a skilled surgeon to help with her loose abdominal skin. After years of living with obesity, she decided she had had enough, and shed over 120 pounds through hard work, diet, and exercise. She kept the weight off, but unfortunately, her skin did not “snap back” afterward. She decided to fly from New…
Case #760
How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
As a board-certified plastic surgeon and body contouring specialist, Dr. Stoker customizes his technique during tummy tuck surgery to address each patient’s specific needs. Abdominoplasty, commonly called a tummy tuck, is a procedure Dr. Stoker performs several times a week, often combining it with other procedures. His expertise includes years of research on innovative techniques used for tummy tuck surgery.
Dr. Stoker makes tummy tuck incisions as low as possible on the abdomen—just above the pubic area—so patients can wear virtually any bikini bottom, low-cut pants, or any other fashion that reveals most of the midsection. He discusses the location and length of the incision in detail with patients during their consultations, so they know what to expect. Typically, the length of the incision depends on the amount of skin that needs to be removed.
Most of the abdominoplasty procedures performed by Dr. Stoker include the following elements:
- Removing extra skin and fat from the lower abdomen through a lower abdominal incision
- Tightening abdominal muscles, creating a much flatter abdomen
- Pulling down the loose skin of the upper abdomen like a window shade, then smoothing the skin and fatty bulges of the abdomen
- Repositioning the bellybutton and pulling the skin around it down to a much lower location
Dr. Stoker also rejuvenates the pubic area (mons pubis) as part of abdominoplasty surgery, something that many surgeons overlook. A pubic lift dramatically enhances the results of a tummy tuck. Why choose Dr. Stoker?
The Dr. StokerDifference
| For Your Tummy Tuck: |
|---|
| He is the author of multiple, large clinical studies on abdominoplasty safety. |
| He has authored a textbook chapter on abdominoplasty and body contouring. |
| He is a course instructor for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons® (ASPS) and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). |
| He is a surgeon consultant for “The Biggest Loser,” NBC’s hit television series. |
| He is a surgeon for ABC’s new series “Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition.” |
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Candidates for a tummy tuck have some (or all) of the following concerns:
- Loose skin on the lower abdomen
- Stretch marks on the lower abdomen
- Abdominal muscle laxity
- Pubic laxity
Good abdominoplasty candidates should be healthy non-smokers. Avoiding smoking is important to decrease risks. Although it’s better for patients to be near their ideal weight, many patients who are overweight are still good candidates for the procedure. Dr. Stoker helps patients understand the advantages and disadvantages for their particular situations when they visit him for a consultation.
What Is an Hourglass Tuck?
Creating a desirable hourglass shape for abdominoplasty patients includes sculpting the body with liposuction and using the patient’s own fat to enhance the breasts and buttocks with fat grafting. Dr. Stoker also uses a technique called muscle plication, or muscle repair, to tighten abdominal muscles separated during pregnancy (a condition called diastasis recti).
Dr. Stoker tightens the abdominal muscles without cutting any muscle by using secure two-layer sutures for the fibrous fascia surrounding the muscles. This helps create a slimmer midsection, in addition to removing excess skin and pulling the remaining skin tight.
What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?
Dr. Stoker performs mini tummy tuck surgery for patients at his Los Angeles practice whose concerns are limited to the area below the bellybutton. It involves making a smaller incision than is used for a full tummy tuck—about 6 inches—and removing a smaller amount of excess skin from the lower abdomen. The best candidates for a mini tummy tuck don’t require repair of their abdominal muscles and are satisfied with the appearance of their upper abdomen.
What Happens to the Bellybutton?
The appearance of the bellybutton (umbilicus) following a tummy tuck is an often-overlooked aspect of the procedure, yet it is crucial to producing results that look natural. The techniques used by different plastic surgeons vary quite a bit—and so do the results.
Dr. Stoker honed his own special technique to accomplish these goals:
- Hide the scar by placing it slightly on the inside edge
- Remove some fat surrounding the umbilicus to recreate youthful contours
- Use a crescent-shaped skin excision to create a natural-appearing upper fold of skin
- Deepen the base of the umbilicus to create an “innie” bellybutton (unless the patient requests an “outie”)
- Bury the external sutures so that stitch marks are not visible on the tension-free closure
Each of these details contributes to creating beautiful bellybuttons for Dr. Stoker’s tummy tuck patients.
Overall Tummy Tuck rating for Stoker Plastic Surgery:
4.69
BASED ON 64 RATINGS
These comments are provided by RealPatientRatings.com, an independent survey service. Not just anyone can go online and write a review through RealPatientRatings®. Only our actual patients are surveyed following their consult or procedure. Participating providers cannot choose which patients are surveyed or censor the reviews.
2/14/2022
– Tummy Tuck, CO2 Laser Resurfacing, Monsplasty / Mons Pubis LiposuctionReview for David Stoker, MD
I am extremely satisfied, that I choose one of the most talented plastic surgeons in the country. From consult to recovery, Dr. Stoker and his staff were professional, caring, knowledgeable and accommodating. Dr. Stoker explained everything I needed to know about my surgeries. He went over expectations for the outcome. I did have an unexpected issue during surgery (hernia) and Dr. Stoker took excellent care of me. Considering what (my body) Dr.Stoker had to start with: after 200 pound+ weight loss, colon cancer surgery scar, stretch marks to the sky, lots of loose skin, apron belly, mons pubis the size of an appendage….. I with I am beyond happy with my results. Dr. Stoker also did C02 laser resurfacing on my face. The skin is so much tighter and smooth and the results have taken years off my face. Dr. Stoker has the balance of knowledge, skill and a beautiful aesthetic to the final outcome. I truly am amazed.*
1/6/2022
– Body Lift, Breast Lift, Tummy Tuck, Thigh LiftReview for David Stoker, MD
Dr. Stoker and his are simply amazing. From my 1st phone call to inquire about surgery, they were top-notch. Everyone in Dr. Stoker’s office is highly trained, professional and so nice!!*
12/6/2021
– Breast Reduction, Liposuction, Tummy TuckReview for David Stoker, MD
Everybody in the clinic were super professional. The results are amazing. I want to give a big, huge shout out for Vita who took care of me after the surgery. Just knowing that she was going to be there was already a relief but when I wasn’t feeling well before going to Aura, the after care clinic, she was very hands on and really felt taken care of. She was AMAZING. Also, Claudia was great in dealing with all the payments and helping me lower the costs. If it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t be able to do such an extensive operation. And lastly, to Dr. Stoker who was able to perform magic on my body.*Next »*Client testimonials are based on personal experience. Individual results may vary.
How Long Is Recovery After an Hourglass Tuck?
Following a tummy tuck, patients should take at least 1 week to recover before returning to work, but this varies depending on the extent of your surgery and the physical nature of your job. It’s best to gradually ease back into your exercise routine and avoid strenuous workouts for at least 6 weeks after your tummy tuck. Dr. Stoker provides detailed post-op instructions to all patients, and it’s very important that you follow them closely to help you recover as quickly as possible and minimize the risk of complications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a tummy tuck get rid of stretch marks?
A tummy tuck may remove stretch marks on the lower abdomen, but those above the bellybutton may remain. However, the skin tightening that occurs as part of a tummy tuck improves the appearance of the remaining stretch marks.
Where are the scars for a tummy tuck?
The scars for a tummy tuck are inside the bellybutton and at the lower abdominal waistline. Ideally, the scar should be positioned so that a low-cut bikini bottom covers it.
What procedures are commonly combined with a tummy tuck?
Many abdominoplasty patients combine liposuction on their flanks or thighs to enhance their results. Liposuction, as mentioned, is a crucial component of the Hourglass Tuck. Additionally, some women choose to get breast enhancement surgery at the same time as a tummy tuck, a combination of procedures usually called a Mommy Makeover.
Is combining procedures safe?
Dr. Stoker has conducted extensive clinical research on the safety of tummy tucks and combined procedures. In his hands, there’s no increase in complication rates when combining a tummy tuck with other operations. Of course, not all patients are candidates for combined surgical procedures. That decision is made on an individual basis in a detailed consultation.
What types of complications may occur with a tummy tuck?
Complications that may occur after a tummy tuck include bleeding, infection, seroma, delayed wound healing, and venous thrombosis. The complication rate may be decreased with experienced and diligent postoperative care. Even patients with complications are still likely to be pleased with their ultimate abdominoplasty improvements.
Best plastic surgeon for breast augmentation
It’s natural to want to feel more confident about the appearance of your breasts. Breast augmentation in Kansas City with the experienced team at Associated Plastic Surgeons can help you have full, beautiful, natural-looking breasts, whether you’d like to gain just a cup size or make a more noticeable change.
Considering breast enlargement with implants in Kansas City? Request a consultation online or give our office a call at (913) 451-3722.
Want to see our work for yourself? Check out our photo gallery to view real photos of previous patients of Associated Plastic Surgeons.
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
WHY CHOOSE BREAST AUGMENTATION?
The surgeons at Associated Plastic Surgeons have extensive experience performing breast augmentation to help women feel happier about their appearance and more satisfied with their lives. Women often choose this procedure for one or more of the following reasons:
- Increasing the size of naturally small breasts
- Restoring or increasing breast volume after pregnancy or weight loss
- Correcting a difference in breast sizes
- Balancing breast and body contours
- Increasing a sense of femininity in swimsuits, fitted tops, and other clothing options
YOUR BREAST AUGMENTATION CONSULTATION
During your breast augmentation consultation, you will meet with one of our plastic surgeons to ensure you are a good candidate for the procedure. They believe you should consider this procedure for your own personal reasons — not the desires of others. Breast augmentation involves several choices when it comes to breast implants, incision location, and implant placement. Your surgeon will guide you through the options to determine which are best suited to your body, aesthetic goals, and lifestyle.
Your health history will be reviewed along with potential risks and complications. If you decide to schedule the surgery, your surgeon may order lab testing, medications, and age-appropriate mammograms as part of your preparation.
Our surgeons can also talk with you at this time about any additional procedures you may be interested in. Many women with sagging breasts benefit from breast lift surgery at the time of breast augmentation. It’s also common for mothers to want to incorporate breast augmentation into a custom mommy makeover. We’re happy to discuss whether combining treatments is right for you.
BREAST IMPLANTS: YOUR CHOICES
In order to provide personalized breast augmentation results, our surgeons offer a variety of breast implant choices including size, fill material, shape, texture, and profile. You will have the opportunity to physically try on different types and sizes of breast implants during your consultation to help you visualize your possible results.
SIZE
Choosing the right implant size for each patient is an art. Our surgeons have extensive experience performing breast enhancement procedures and work with patients to help them choose implants that will meet their cosmetic goals. A size that looks great on one patient may look completely different on another because of her anatomy.
Your body type and the amount of existing breast tissue you already have are important factors in choosing a size that will provide the results you desire. Our surgeons understand this can be a complicated decision and recommend options based on their expertise.
SALINE OR SILICONE
The more recent generation of cohesive silicone implants is the most popular choice among our patients, but saline implants are still an appropriate option for some women. Each type of implant offers advantages. For example, saline implants are filled after being inserted, so a slightly smaller incision is required and your surgeon can fine-tune the size of the implants once they are in place.
Cohesive gel implants and highly cohesive gel implants (which are sometimes called “gummy bear” implants) look and feel more like natural breasts, according to many patients. Some of the complications associated with saline implants, such as visible wrinkling and rippling, aren’t an issue for cohesive gel implants.
To learn more about these options, as well as profile, shape, and texture, please visit our comprehensive Breast Implant Options page.
THE BREAST AUGMENTATION PROCEDURE
Our surgeons perform breast augmentation at a licensed surgical center in the Kansas City metropolitan area. The procedure is usually an outpatient surgery using general anesthesia.
Your surgeon uses the detailed surgical plan you agreed upon during your consultation as the operation’s blueprint. The primary surgical options include the incision locations and where your surgeon places the implants. Those options are discussed below in detail. The procedure’s steps include:
- Making the incisions
- Creating spaces for the implants, called pockets
- Inserting the implants into the pockets
Your surgeon then assesses the appearance of the implants, fine-tuning the shape and size of your breasts, and then closing the incisions with tiny sutures and surgical tape. After the operation is complete, our medical team monitors your progress in a recovery room. Your surgeon ensures you are ready to leave the surgical center before you return home.
BREAST IMPLANT PLACEMENT
Our surgeons offer the following placement options for breast implants:
- Below the muscle or submuscular placement provides optimal coverage of the implant by placing it beneath both the breast tissue and the chest muscle. This option is often a good choice for women who have very little of their own breast tissue because extra tissue covers the breast implants. Submuscular placement may reduce the possibility of capsular contracture, a complication in which the natural scar tissue that forms around the implant thickens and distorts the breast shape.
- Above the muscle is technically called subglandular placement because the implant sits directly beneath the breast tissue (also called the mammary gland). Because only breast tissue and skin cover the implant, the implant may be more easily felt, especially in thinner women with little existing breast tissue. However, this placement provides attractive results when silicone implants are used, especially for women with more natural tissue.
IMPLANT PLACEMENT OPTIONS
Subglandular Placement
Submuscular Placement
INCISION OPTIONS
Our surgeons perform breast augmentation through 3 possible incision sites described in the table below.
| Incision Location | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Around the nipple (periareolar) | Gives the surgeon clear access for implant placementConceals the scar along the lower edge of the areola where the darker skin meets the breastGood for silicone and saline implants | May impact breastfeeding because milk glands are cutMay cause changes in breast and nipple sensationNot suited for small areolas |
| Within the breast fold (inframammary) | Gives surgeon clear access for implant placementConceals the scar under the breast foldGood for silicone and saline implantsAvoids impact to milk glands | Leaves a scar on the breast that may be noticeable when lying down |
| Under the arm (axillary) | Concealed in a natural crease of the armpitAvoids any scar on the breastAvoids impact to milk glandsGood for saline implants | Requires obstructed access for implant placementNot suited for larger silicone implants |
RECOVERY & RESULTS
A successful recovery begins with following your surgeon’s instructions. There are some steps you can take prior to the surgery to enhance your comfort during the recovery, especially in the first few days after the procedure:
If you live alone, arrange to have a trusted friend or loved one drive you home and spend at least the first night with you. Also, it’s a good idea to:
- Clean your home and prepare meals for at least the first day or 2 following surgery.
- Have books, magazines, a tablet or laptop, and the TV remote all handy near your bed.
- Fill your prescriptions for pain relief medication before surgery.
It is common to feel some discomfort after getting breast implants, although it is generally less pronounced than most patients expect. You are encouraged to carefully walk around your house on the day of the operation to promote circulation and enhance the healing process.
You should wear a support bra around the clock during the first 2 weeks following the operation. Recovery time differs for each patient, but many women find they are able to undergo breast augmentation on a Thursday and return to work the following Monday. Incisions typically heal within 5 to 10 days. Postpone vigorous exercise for at least 4 weeks. Check with your surgeon before doing workouts that engage muscles in your upper body, especially if you’ve had implants placed below the muscle.
The vast majority of breast augmentation patients enjoy their results for several years, but breast implants shouldn’t be considered lifetime devices. Implant manufacturers generally say implants can last 10 to 15 years. If you get silicone gel implants, an annual MRI is recommended after the first few years to monitor your implants.
The same life changes that can affect the appearance of natural breasts, such as pregnancy, weight loss or gain, and menopause, can alter the look of your breasts.
BREAST AUGMENTATION: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
AM I A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR BREAST AUGMENTATION SURGERY?
To ensure successful healing, we recommend that our breast augmentation patients be nonsmokers who are in good health. We also recommend that our patients have positive outlooks and specific, realistic goals in mind related to their surgeries.
WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF A BREAST AUGMENTATION?
Breast augmentation does require ongoing maintenance, including regular examinations for breast health and to evaluate the condition of your breast implants. Ultimately, you may need to have your implants removed or replaced.
WHAT DOES BREAST AUGMENTATION COST?
The cost of breast augmentation surgery, much like other elective cosmetic procedures, varies depending on a number of factors. Among those are the geographic location where the operation is performed, the implants chosen, and the training and experience of the surgeon. When we quote a price for breast augmentation, it includes several related costs. Surgeon’s fees, anesthesiologist’s fees, and the operating fee are all part of the total price. We are committed to making our surgical services accessible to as many women as possible and are happy to offer financing options to qualified patients.
Plastic surgery prices
Cosmetic plastic surgery costs vary from patient to patient. Therefore, we can only offer the typical cost for each procedure. These figures only represent Dr. Bortnick’s fees. Dr. Bortnick believes in the safest surgical environment possible, so all surgical procedures are performed in an accredited outpatient surgical facility.
Try our Wish List Calculator to help you budget for the body of your dreams.
Wish List Calculator
Often, we can offer significant price reductions when more than one procedure is performed. An exact cost for any procedure can only be determined after a consultation. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.
HEALTH CARE COVERAGE
Cosmetic plastic surgery is not typically covered by health insurance. However, insurance companies will usually cover or partially cover the costs of certain procedures such as breast reduction, breast reconstruction, upper eyelid surgery and acquired deformities of the nose. In these instances, we will gladly help you determine your coverage.
FINANCING INFORMATION
CareCredit
We accept CareCredit, the healthcare credit card designed specifically to help finance your health and beauty needs. With CareCredit, you can get the cosmetic procedures of your dreams with special financing on purchases of $200 or more.
*Subject to credit approval. Minimum monthly payments required. Visit www.carecredit.com for details.
Brilliant Distinctions Program
Earn points every time you purchase an Allergan treatment or product, such as Botox or Juvederm. The points you earn can be redeemed for future treatments. Learn more or sign up here.
AVERAGE PLASTIC SURGERY COSTS
| Procedure | Our Average Price |
| Mommy Makeover (Tummy Tuck Plus Breast) | Starting At $7,600 |
| Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) | $5,500 |
| Mini Abdominoplasty | $4,600 |
| Extended Abdominoplasty | $6,000 |
| Circumferential Abdominoplasty | $6,500 |
| Fleu De Lis Abdominoplasty | $7,000 |
| Arm Lift | $4,000 |
| Blepharoplasty (Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery) | $2,500 |
| Quad Blepharoplasty | $3,000 |
| Brachioplasty | $4,000 |
| Breast Augmentation | $3,200 |
| Breast Lift | $3,800 |
| Breast Lift With Implants | $4,600 Plus Cost Of Implants |
| Implant Exchange Without Capsulectomy | $3,700 |
| Implant Exchange With Capsulectomy And Capsulorrhaphy | $4,100 |
| Mastopexy | $3,800 |
| Mastopexy Augmentation | $4,600 |
| Breast Reduction (Women) | $5,000 |
| Breast Reduction (Men) | $3,300 |
| Breast Reduction Extended | $5,800 |
| Chin Augmentation | $2,200 |
| Fat Grafting | $2,200 |
| Gynecomastia | $3,300 |
| Otoplasty (Cosmetic Ear Surgery) | $3,000 |
| Bilateral Earlobe Repair (Apply $50 Consultation Fee) | $500 |
| Face Lift | $6,000 |
| Face Lift And Quad Bleph | $6,800 |
| Face Lift, Brow Lift, Quad Bleph | $8,800 |
| Neck Lift | $4,500 |
| Autologous Fat Graft | $1,500 |
| Brow Lift Endoscopic | $3,200 |
| Liposuction | $3,000/First Hour |
| Liposuction Each Additional Hour | $1,750 |
| Lower Body Lift | $9,000 |
| Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping) | $5,500 |
| Tip Rhinoplasty | $3,500 |
| Medial Thigh Lift | $5,500 |
| Injectables – BOTOX® | $350 ($13 Per Unit) |
| Injectables – Sculptra Poly-L-Lactic Acid | $660 |
| Injectables – Juvederm Hyaluronic Acid (Syringe) | $550 |
| Juvederm Voluma™ XC | $850 |
| Kybella™ | $1,500/First Injection $1,000 Subsequent |
| Chemical Peels – TCA | $1,500 |
| Full Face CO2 Laser (Plus $850 Rental Fee) | $2,500 |
| Cosmetic Lesion (Apply $50 Consultation Fee) | $450 |
| Cosmetic Consultation | $50 |
| Implants | Supply Charge |
| Saline Implants Per Pair | $500 |
| Silicone Implants Per Pair | $1,350 |
| Soft Touch Per Pair | $1,900 |
| Cohesive Silicone/410 Implants Per Pair | $2,600 |