Choosing a doctor - should I go back to the doctor who performed by breast augmentation or find a tummy tuck specialist?

It sounds like you had a great experience with your prior surgeon which is fantastic! Being comfortable with your surgeon is an incredibly important factor in deciding to move forward with surgery.
Most board certified plastic surgeons who perform cosmetic breast surgery also generally perform body contouring such as tummy tuck and liposuction. I recommend you study the before and after photos of any surgeon before deciding to book surgery. This will give you a sense of their results. If you like the tummy tuck examples by your prior surgeon, then by all means consult with them to discuss your goals and surgical options.
There's also nothing wrong with consulting with a second surgeon or someone more specialized in body contouring to get a different opinion. It's your body and you need to feel comfortable with your surgeon choice and surgical plan before moving forward with surgery. Best of luck!

Thank you for your question. A surgeon who specializes in breast augmentation can conduct tummy tucks; however, this will rely on your needs and medical history. The surgeon must consider the scar tissue and quality of the abdominal muscles due to the history of emergency cesarean sections and scarring. I would advice to look at their before and afters, and discuss with them about the technique they will be using.

Dear 3ladybug,

When it comes to undergoing a tummy tuck procedure, it's crucial to prioritize expertise and specialization. While it's understandable that you may have built trust with the surgeon who performed your breast augmentation, choosing a specialist in tummy tucks can offer several distinct advantages.

Specialization matters for a reason. Surgeons who focus specifically on tummy tucks have honed their skills and techniques to deliver optimal results in this particular area of cosmetic surgery. They possess in-depth knowledge of the intricate anatomical structures involved in tummy tuck procedures and are adept at addressing various concerns, including excess skin, muscle laxity, and scarring from previous surgeries.

While your previous surgeon may have provided satisfactory results for your breast augmentation, it's essential to recognize that tummy tucks require a unique set of skills and expertise. Opting for a surgeon who specializes in tummy tucks increases the likelihood of achieving your desired outcome and ensures that your procedure is performed with precision and attention to detail.

Moreover, a specialist in tummy tucks can offer tailored recommendations and treatment plans based on your specific needs and goals. They can address any concerns related to your previous surgeries, such as scarring from cesarean sections, with a comprehensive understanding of the underlying issues.

Ultimately, your decision should prioritize the quality of care and the potential for optimal results. While it may be tempting to return to a familiar surgeon, choosing a tummy tuck specialist can provide you with the expertise and peace of mind you deserve.

I encourage you to explore your options and schedule consultations with board-certified plastic surgeons who specialize in tummy tucks. During these consultations, you can discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations, allowing you to make an informed decision about your surgical journey.

Best wishes for a successful and satisfying tummy tuck experience.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katzen
Plastic Surgeon

Dear 3ladybug,
finding the right Dr. is extremely challenging especially with the number of online platforms and resources available. There a lot of great Dr's available. Make sure he/she is a board-certified plastic surgeon. Definitely check to make sure your choice specializes in the procedure you want and spend the time to read through patient testimonials. There is a number of different sites where you can check for reviews (Realself, yelp, google, etc.).You can always pick up the phone and call around also, find an office you feel comfortable with and set up a few consultations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

If you had a good relationship with your surgeon and trust them, then consider speaking to them about your tummy tuck. You can ask about their experience in tummy tucks and see before/after photos. If you feel that they won’t be able to achieve the results you want, then you can then consider finding a specialist.

Hello and thank you for your question
If you are happy with past surgical results, and you are comfortable with the surgeon , schedule a consultation to discuss your options. You can always get other opinions as well. Good luck!

Most well-trained, Board, certified plastic surgeons are knowledgeable about how to perform breast augmentation, breast lift, and tummy tucks, etc. I’m sure there are people who say they specialize in tummy tucks, however, this is not necessary to achieve an excellent result. Ask your plastic surgeon whether they have before and after photographs of the tummy tuck procedures that they have performed and you will get an idea of their abilities and aesthetic sense. Best wishes.

Unless your plastic surgeon explicitly tells you he does not perform tummy tucks your best first step is to consult with the plastic surgeon you already know and trust.

The idea of “specializing” is confusing. Most plastic surgeons perform both breast and body contouring surgery. There are plastic surgeons who like to focus on face or nose, but you already had an excellent experience and that should be excellent confirmation.

The plastic surgeon who markets him- or herself as “specializing” in tummy tucks is intentionally trying to focus his or her practice on that particular operation, but that does not mean that he or she is “better”, more qualified, or more skilled. A board certified plastic surgeon with whom you are comfortable and whose aesthetics align with your own is what we would all recommend to you. A second opinion is always available to you. Best of luck to you.

If you are happy with your surgeon, then go back to him. Ask to see photos to give you an idea of what you may expect.

I encourage you to visit with a few board certified plastic surgeons for consultations, including the one that performed your breast augmentation. Do some research on reviews, before/after photos, credentials, and of course who you feel is the best fit for you. It is important that you feel comfortable and confident in your surgeon and surgical plan.