Tummy Tuck in San Diego

Abdominoplasty, commonly known as a tummy tuck, is a body contouring procedure designed to improve the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles when indicated. It is commonly performed after significant weight loss or pregnancy and focuses on restoring a smoother, firmer abdominal contour.

Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

Abdominoplasty can improve abdominal contour by addressing loose or excess skin, separated abdominal muscles, and stubborn fat. Patients often experience a flatter, more toned appearance and improved clothing fit. When appropriately selected, results are long-lasting and can significantly enhance overall body proportions.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Ideal candidates for abdominoplasty are individuals who have excess abdominal skin, muscle laxity, or contour irregularities that do not improve with diet and exercise. Candidates should be in good overall health, at a stable weight, and have realistic expectations. Abdominoplasty is not intended as a weight-loss procedure.

Treatment Areas

Abdominoplasty addresses the abdomen, including the area above and below the belly button, and may also improve the waistline and lower torso depending on the technique used. Muscle tightening of the abdominal wall may be performed when appropriate.

Tummy Tuck Options: Mini, Standard, Extended, and Fleur-de-Lis

Abdominoplasty techniques are tailored to the patient’s anatomy and goals. Several variations exist, including:

Mini Abdominoplasty:

  • Focuses on the lower abdomen below the belly button with limited skin removal and minimal muscle tightening.

Standard Abdominoplasty:

  • Addresses excess skin and muscle laxity of the full abdomen, typically involving repositioning of the belly button.

Extended Abdominoplasty:

  • Extends beyond the hips to address excess skin and contour concerns of the flanks and waistline.

Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty:
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  • Designed for patients with significant horizontal and vertical skin excess, often following massive weight loss.


Incisions are carefully planned to be placed low on the abdomen and concealed by clothing when possible. The procedure is performed under anesthesia, and recovery progresses gradually as swelling resolves and contours refine.

Personal Consultation with Esthetica Center

Why Choose Esthetica for Your San Diego Tummy Tuck

Esthetica Center of San Diego is a modern surgical center with offices in San Diego and in Orange County. We are a team of renowned cosmetic surgeons dedicated to providing only the best customer care and outcomes.


Your Consultation

During your tummy tuck consultation, Dr. Wael Kouli will review your medical history, examine your abdomen, and discuss your goals. You can ask about the tummy tuck options described above, muscle tightening when appropriate, incision placement, recovery, and the risks of surgery. Dr. Kouli will explain which approach fits your anatomy and whether you are a candidate before you decide on treatment.

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Contact us

To learn more about surgery and to find out if you are a good candidate, contact our office today to schedule a personal consultation.

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