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Ventura Tummy Tuck
 
If you are considering having a tummy tuck to achieve a flatter tummy, there are a few things that you should know about this cosmetic procedure in the Ventura County area.  

The Tummy Tuck Operation
 
The operation, also called abdomioplasty, is considered a major surgery and not everyone is suited for it.  The best candidates are people that are not obese, are in fairly good shape but have a large amount of excess belly fat and/or skin that won’t go away, even with exercise and diet.  This condition is usually the result of a large amount of weight loss or pregnancy.

The standard tummy tuck procedure consists of the surgeon removing the unsightly fat in the abdominal area, and if the skin is loose the doctor will cut away the extra skin so that it lies normally on your abdomen.  During the operation the doctor also can reposition and suture the abdominal muscles to tighten up the tummy.  All three of these alterations work in concert to achieve a smaller and flatter tummy.  

There is a less major procedure called the Mini Tummy-tuck, in which there is no need to tighten the abdominal muscles.  Some people can achieve the same results with just the skin and fat removal.  The Mini Tummy-tuck is preferable for those people because there is less risk than a more major operation.  Recovery time is also decreased over that of a standard tummy tuck, and scarring is diminished due to a smaller incision.

Where Do I Start For A Tummy Tuck?
 
The best way to begin is to do some research about the preparation, operation and recovery.  You should also find a good surgeon you can trust.  Using a doctor who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery is probably a good choice.  Make sure he/she is experienced in abdominoplasty and is willing to work with you and answer your questions.  Once you have chosen, your first appointment will be a consultation and exam.  
The doctor will need to know everything about your medical history, including any medications and herbs you are taking, and previous operations, allergies, etc.   They may take a “before” photo, and do a blood work-up.   You may be asked to stop taking certain medications 2 weeks before surgery, which include blood thinners like aspirin.

What To Expect
 
Once you are ready for surgery, you will go to a hospital where a general anesthetic is usually administered.  The entire operation can take from 2 to 4 hours, and when you wake up you will be groggy and sore.  Most people stay for 2 to 3 days in the hospital, after which they rest and recover at home for about 3 weeks.  After about 4 weeks you start special abdominal exercises and should start resuming normal activities.  Some people have swelling for a few months, but this should slowly go away and the tummy will look smaller than before.  It may take 6 to 9 months for the scars to heal completely and shrink. 
 
Risks Of Surgery
As with all surgery there are risks that you should be aware of.  These include bleeding, infection, loss of tissue (necrosis), poor healing and scarring, blood clot in the lungs, and anesthesia risks.  If you notice anything unusual during recovery, you should notify your doctor immediately.  

Ventura In Los Angeles California

Ventura, CA is a coastal city north of Los Angeles County.  The surrounding area is agricultural, with fruit and vegetable growing still a strong industry.  Founded in 1866, the city was originally called San Buenaventura, named after the mission San Buenaventura that was founded by Father Junípero Serra in 1782. 

The area offers many activities such as surfing, museums, galleries and shopping.  Ventura County Fairgrounds is a popular surfing point, and the mission San Buenaventura is located right downtown along with museums, galleries, wine bars and a theater company. 
Ventura is also home to the Ventura Harbor.  The harbor houses a fishing industry as well as leisure boats, renowned seafood restaurants and quaint shops.  The Park headquarters of the Channel Islands is also located in the harbor.  Boats to the Channel Island travel to and from Ventura Harbor on a daily basis.