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Northridge Tummy Tuck
 
The tummy tuck procedure is a cosmetic surgery that can re-shape and flatten the tummy area in some people.  It is also called abdominoplasty because it alters the abdominal area.  In Northridge, there are several surgeons to choose from.  The most reliable surgeons that will likely give you the best results are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are able to demonstrate experience with this and related surgeries.  It is also recommended to examine the outcome history of the surgeon you choose, and be sure that most of their patients have achieved the desired results.
 
Am I A Candidate For Tummy Tuck?
 
The procedure is not for everyone.  Your surgeon will be able to determine if it is the best procedure for you.  The most ideal candidates are people that have excess skin and/or fat in the abdominal area, usually caused by having had the skin stretched from either pregnancy or a former condition of being overweight.  After the weight is lost and the body becomes smaller, many people have remaining skin that simply hangs over the belly and can be unsightly.  There can also be fat involved as well.  In many cases the abdominal muscles have also stretched, and the tummy tuck operation can actually correct this as well.  
 
If your doctor gives you the go-ahead, there are several protocols that must be followed a few weeks before surgery.  Based on the information at your consultation and exam, your surgeon will give you a list of instructions to follow.  First, blood cardiac testing will be done to make sure the surgery is safe for you.  If you are taking certain medications, the doctor will ask that you cease taking them for about 2 weeks before surgery.  These may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin and other substances that can cause blood thinning and bleeding.  Some herbs are considered a risk for bleeding as well, including green tea, gingko biloba, vitamin E, and , omega-3 fatty acids.  It is also recommended to cease smoking prior to surgery because this can delay healing and even cause necrosis of the skin.  Supplements such as vitamin C are sometimes recommended before surgery.  
 
Operation And Recovery
 
The entire operation including repositioning of the abdominal muscles can take 2 to 5 hours.  Most people undergo general anesthetic and stay in the hospital for up to 3 days.  Swelling and soreness is normal and will gradually decrease.  At home, rest is recommended for about 3 weeks, after which you can gradually return to normal activities.  Mild exercise is suggested along with special exercises for strengthening the abdominal muscles.  After 6 to 9 months the incision scars will diminish.
 
Northridge In Los Angeles California
Northridge is a small suburban community of the city of Los Angeles, located in the San Fernando Valley.  It has an area of 17 square miles.  The northern edge of Northridge is situated along the 118 freeway, providing freeway access to its residents.  Northridge is primarily an area of homes, small business, schools and recreational facilities.  It is home to California State University, Northridge (CSUN), which supports the California State University Northridge Botanical Garden and the Donald E. Bianchi Planetarium.  The Northridge Fashion Center, a large shopping center and indoor mall, spans several blocks and is a main shopping site for people in the area.