How to Choose the Right Time for Your Tummy Tuck Surgery

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Dr. Ben Childers

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2/15/2025

Planning tummy tuck surgery (abdominoplasty) is an exciting step toward achieving the body you've always wanted. Whether your goal is to address loose belly skin, remove stubborn fat pockets, or tighten abdominal muscles, choosing the right time for your procedure is key to getting the best results possible. So, when should you get a tummy tuck?

Dr. Ben J. Childers has more than 20 years of experience supporting tummy tuck patients in Riverside, CA, with helpful resources and information. If you have questions about the process, call Riverside Plastic Surgery today. Our friendly team can answer your questions and provide the answers you need to make the ideal decision for your journey.

First, what is tummy tuck surgery?

Before discussing timing, it's important to have a clear understanding of what an abdominoplasty involves. So, what is tummy tuck surgery? This procedure is suited for people who have excess skin, fat, and/or weakened abdominal muscles that don't respond to traditional diet and exercise. It can remove extra skin and fat from around the middle and tighten the abdominal muscles to create a flatter and substantially more toned appearance.

Who's the best fit for tummy tuck surgery?

Abdominoplasty is a great option for almost anyone looking to feel confident in their body again. It's especially helpful for:

  • Women with loose belly skin and weakened abdominal muscles after pregnancy
  • Those who have lost a lot of weight and are left with hanging skin and fat pockets
  • Individuals who are bothered by the appearance of their abdomen due to aging, genetics, or other factors

When should you get a tummy tuck?

The time to book a tummy tuck in Riverside, CA depends on your unique goals and circumstances. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind:

  • Your health and fitness level: Are you generally healthy and able to undergo surgery? Tummy tuck surgery is a major procedure, so being in good overall health is key for a smooth recovery.
  • Your pregnancy plans: Thinking about having kids in the future? While you can still have children after a tummy tuck, waiting until you're done growing your family is usually the right choice. This way, you can avoid a future pregnancy undoing your results.
  • Work and lifestyle commitments: Do you have time for rest and recovery? Make sure to plan for time off work and arrange for some support during the first few weeks post-surgery. Giving yourself time to heal is essential.
  • Seasonal considerations: When's the best time for you? If you're hoping to show off your results during summer vacations or in a bikini, consider scheduling your procedure in the winter or spring. This gives you plenty of time to recover.
  • Your personal preferences: The right time for your tummy tuck is ultimately when you feel ready to take this step. Are you prepared to invest in yourself and work toward your goals? When you feel confident and motivated, it's the perfect moment to move forward

Take a step toward your dream body

So, what is tummy tuck surgery, and when should you get a tummy tuck? At Riverside Plastic Surgery, we understand that you have questions about the process. Whether you want to tackle loose belly skin and fat pockets or tighten abdominal muscles, Dr. Ben J. Childers is here to provide support and guidance. Call now for an appointment in Riverside, CA, and you can get your dream body.

I was hesitant to get my breast reduction with Dr.Childers since there were a few bad reviews , but i figured , you just cant make everyone happy. The doctor does his best the rest is left up to how our body responds /heals and the initiation of the individual taking responsibility for good post op care....etc. I've had terrible back pain due to my natural cleavage size G, as i gain weight it goes to my breast thighs and my buttock area. After my 5th pregnancy the back-pain got worst. After many months of thinking if i should or shouldnt i decided to take the next step towards breast reduction. I was referred to Dr.Childers by my Primary doctor which was also a plastic surgeon listed and approved by my insurance. Since my initial visit it was very professional environment , also the staff were very curtious and inviting. They also offer free refreshments in their waiting area, recalling that when i had my first appointment i had a busy day and was dying of thirst. Dr Childers is very kind professional and listens well to your request of what is desired. Up until the operation day i felt comfortable with him he came and marked me up asked if i had any questions he was very thorough regarding where incisions would be made where and about what size my nipple would be and i approved of his sketch before i know it i was out and ready to go home. The pain was manageable i was given great post op information sheets antibiotics and pain meds that i absolutely loved because they were very effective with minimal side effects. Ive had work done before and i am very particular about incisions and attaching skin back together i can definitely say my new breasts are a work of art my nipples are symmetrical everything is even my breasts are perky , the incisions are precise straight and clean , hes got a very good hand i am extremely happy with the results and i havent even healed completely but i can see that his work is great. I am coming back for my tummy tuck revision scar for sure its nice not to have to travel far to get a good quality doctor with clean straight incisions. I will recommend Dr Childers to anyone looking for good clean work. Ill be happy to share with any other women who may have any doubts or questions . I will post my next review on my tummy tuck revision for my existing thick dark scar in which i went and had work done in tijuana for and cannot wait to see how good he makes it look.

L.L. Yelp

I'm honestly surprised to see Dr. Childers with so many bad reviews. I went to many different consultations with surgeons, and none of them listened to what I wanted other than Dr. Childers. They also wanted to do more costly additions like a Septoplasty and Turbinectomy. Dr. Childers was the only one who said I didn't need that, and actually said all I needed was a turbinate reduction for my breathing issues. When he said that I knew I could trust him as a doctor, and I'm so glad I did. As for the aesthetics of my nose, it's perfect. He truly listened to what I wanted, and gave me just that. I couldn't be happier about my new nose, and I'm grateful I chose him as my surgeon. If I ever want a surgery in the future again I'm 100% going back to him. He's a great surgeon, and was nothing but kind to me and my family.

A.S. Yelp

I’m honestly surprised to see Dr. Childers with so many bad reviews. I went to many different consultations with surgeons, and none of them listened to what I wanted other than Dr. Childers. They also wanted to do more costly additions like a Septoplasty and Turbinectomy. Dr. Childers was the only one who said I didn’t need that, and actually said all I needed was a turbinate reduction for my breathing issues. When he said that I knew I could trust him as a doctor, and I’m so glad I did. As for the aesthetics of my nose, it’s perfect. He  truly listened to what I wanted, and gave me just that. I couldn’t be happier about my new nose, and I’m grateful I chose him as my surgeon. If I ever want a surgery in the future again I’m 100% going back to him. He’s a great surgeon, and was nothing but kind to me and my family.

A.S. Yelp

Dr.Ben Childers gets to the point and the job done! I had concerns but he had been doing this for years so he's probably tired of hearing the same concerns lol he's like let me do my job so if time is of essence to you I recommend His staff was very friendly office is very clean. I didn't have to wait too long most the time was quick. I really appreciated the after care and the pain pumps after surgery Lord Jesus is good thank you Dr.Childers for that!! I actually was able to stand straight the first two days wasn't sure if that was suppose to happen but I'm glad because after surgery I almost fell leaning backwards if it was too tight I probably would of ripped open scar a little higher than I would of liked but I think depends on your body and weight I'm happy overall with the results and after care especially! I was a little overweight 5 "4 155 so I couldn't expect a super flat tummy but it looks good! and he's a nice dude may come off as rude but he's a cool guy and I don't mind my uncle was a vietnam veteran and he was a whole other story lol maybe Dr needs to retire soon or maybe I'm annoying and enjoy his long years of hard work he put in God knows, but overall I'm happy and don't regret coming to this Surgeon and by the way love the new belly button super cute! I would recommend him had a great recovery thanks to Jesus and this amazing Dr and staff may God bless them.

B.P. Yelp

Dr.Ben Childers gets to the point and the job done! I had concerns but he had been doing this for years so he’s probably tired of hearing the same concerns lol he’s like let me do my job so if time is of essence to you I recommend His staff was very friendly office is very clean. I didn’t have to wait too long most the time was quick. I really appreciated the after care and the pain pumps after surgery Lord Jesus is good thank you Dr.Childers for that!!  I actually was able to stand straight the first two days wasn’t sure if that was suppose to happen but I’m glad because after surgery I almost fell leaning backwards if it was too tight I probably would of ripped open scar a little higher than I would of liked but I think depends on your body and weight I’m happy overall with the results and after care especially! I was a little overweight 5 "4 155 so I couldn’t expect a super flat tummy but it looks good! and he’s a nice dude may come off as rude but he’s a cool guy and I don’t mind my uncle was a vietnam veteran and he was a whole other story lol  maybe Dr needs to retire soon or maybe I’m annoying   and enjoy his long years of hard work he put in God knows, but overall I’m happy and don’t regret coming to this Surgeon and by the way love the new belly button super cute! I would recommend him had a great recovery thanks to Jesus and this amazing Dr and staff may God bless them.

B.P. Yelp

189

Total Reviews

4.9

Average Rating

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