Tummy Tuck in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village

Restore your strength, shape, and confidence with a tummy tuck in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village, as performed by board-certified surgeon Dr. Stark. Her artistic eye creates beautiful, natural-looking contours along the abdomen.

Reclaim Your Sense of Self After Life Changes

Pregnancy, childbirth, and weight loss can all alter the midsection, with long-lasting effects on a woman’s confidence and self-image. Dr. Stark performs tummy tucks in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village with empathy, care, and a deep understanding of how transformational this process will be. Her goal is to enhance your natural features, not work against them, and help you recognize yourself in the mirror again.

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Also known as an abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin from the midsection and tightens weakened or separated abdominal muscles. Women typically opt to undergo a tummy tuck to address the following concerns:

Loose or sagging abdominal skin
Weakened core strength
Loss of contour along the abdomen
Discomfort or irritation from excess skin

The procedure can also help improve core stability and posture, leaving patients feeling stronger and more comfortable in their bodies.

A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure. Instead, it is designed to restore abdominal shape and contour once you have reached a stable weight. This procedure focuses on removing excess skin, repairing muscle separation, and creating a firmer, more balanced midsection.

What a Tummy Tuck Can Address

A tummy tuck improves several common abdominal concerns at once by addressing the skin, muscles, and surrounding contours.

Excess or Loose Skin

Loose skin can develop after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging, and often cannot be corrected through exercise alone. A tummy tuck removes this excess tissue to create a smoother abdominal contour.

Diastasis Recti (Muscle Separation)

Pregnancy and weight changes can cause the abdominal muscles to separate, leading to a persistent bulge and weakened core strength. During surgery, these muscles are repaired and tightened to restore support and create a flatter profile.

Stubborn Fat Deposits

Liposuction is often incorporated to refine areas such as the flanks or upper abdomen, helping create a more natural, balanced contour.

Tummy Tuck with Liposuction

Modern tummy tuck procedures often combine abdominoplasty with liposuction to enhance overall contour.

While the tummy tuck addresses skin and muscle laxity, liposuction refines surrounding areas such as the flanks, upper abdomen, or lower back.

This combined approach allows Dr. Stark to create a smoother, more sculpted result rather than focusing on the abdomen alone.

The Dr. Stark Difference

As one of the leading female plastic surgeons in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village, Dr. Stark takes her commitment to female wellness seriously. She’s passionate about providing empathetic, high-touch care to women in the area and is dedicated to helping women rediscover their joy.

In addition to her extensive medical education and surgical leadership, Dr. Stark received classical training in sculpture, painting, and drawing in her youth. This experience refined her artistic eye, allowing her to carefully sculpt the body with balance and proportion in mind. Her work is characterized by soft, natural-looking silhouettes and results that harmonize with your anatomy, rather than working against it.

Next Steps Schedule A Consultation

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck may be appropriate for patients who:

Have loose or hanging abdominal skin
Experience muscle separation after pregnancy
Have undergone significant weight loss
Maintain a stable weight, but still notice abdominal bulging

The best candidates typically:

Are within about 5–10 pounds of their goal weight
Do not smoke or use nicotine products
Are in good overall health
Have realistic expectations about their results

Dr. Stark will evaluate your anatomy and medical history to determine if this procedure is right for you.

When a Tummy Tuck May Not Be the Right Option

A tummy tuck may not be recommended if you:

Plan to become pregnant in the future
Are actively losing weight
Have uncontrolled medical conditions
Use nicotine products regularly

In these cases, Dr. Stark may recommend delaying surgery or exploring alternative treatments.

Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures

Abdominoplasty is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Dr. Stark offers several approaches depending on your anatomy and goals.

Hybrid (Mini) Tummy Tuck

This approach focuses on the lower abdomen and is best for patients with mild skin laxity and minimal muscle separation. It involves a smaller incision and may offer a shorter recovery time.

Full Tummy Tuck

A full abdominoplasty treats the entire abdomen, both above and below the belly button. It includes removal of excess skin, muscle repair, and repositioning of the belly button for a natural appearance.

Extended Tummy Tuck

This technique addresses excess skin along the abdomen and flanks, with an incision that extends beyond the hips. It is often recommended for patients with more significant skin laxity.

Lower Body Lift

For patients who have experienced major weight loss, a circumferential procedure may be used to address loose skin around the entire lower torso, including the abdomen, flanks, and lower back.

During your consultation, Dr. Stark will determine the most appropriate technique for your anatomy and desired outcome.

Testimonials

“

I highly recommend her to anyone seeking superior quality and outstanding results!

”

“I had an amazing experience with Dr. Stark. At each appointment, I was always welcomed by smiles from everyone, particularly Sabrina, Dr. Stark's assistant. She is extremely kind and creates a comforting atmosphere. Dr. Stark is highly knowledgeable and compassionate. I felt anxious about my procedure, but she alleviated my concerns with her gentle nature, professionalism, and effective communication skills. Following my surgery, she consistently checked on my well-being, and I was amazed by the exceptional treatment and personal attention I received. My procedure went great, and I am extremely happy with the outcome. Dr. Stark is an exceptional surgeon who goes beyond expectations. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking superior quality and outstanding results!”

- T.W.

“

Thank you, Dr Stark, for making my life HAPPIER!!

”

“Dr Stark and her medical team are amazing. Went in to have an Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and the care is excellent. Currently at 9 weeks post surgery, swollen a lot less, and loving my results so far. Going into surgery, I was nervous about the after-pain because I heard several horror stories of how painful it is. Surprisingly, my pain level was mild ( 1-10 I was at 2). My experience exceeded my expectations from the consultation, to surgery, to post op. Dr Stark, Sabrina Esquivel, and the whole team have been very caring and attentive, and delivered an A+ service. Thank you, Dr Stark, for making my life HAPPIER!!”

- A.Q.

“

I cannot thank Dr. Stark enough.

”

“Dr. Stark is not only a meticulous professional and at the top of her field, but she and her team are one of the warmest and most engaged treatment teams I have ever met. Dr. Stark and Sabrina walked me through every moment of the procedure and recovery, and they were attentive and responsive. Her nurses in recovery were incredibly kind and thorough. Dr. Stark’s sense of humor mixed with her attention to detail makes her truly exceptional, and she makes you feel understood. The results of my mini abdominoplasty with liposuction were beyond anything I would have imagined. I cannot thank Dr. Stark and the Schwartz Institute enough.”

- C.B.

“

Dr. Stark is absolutely the best plastic surgeon.

”

“Dr. Stark is outstanding! She is an artist and a perfectionist. For years, I questioned if my prophylactic mastectomy was worth it because I didn’t love the way I looked. I booked a consultation with Dr. Stark to correct an encapsulated breast implant. She was thorough and made me feel comfortable. The morning of my procedure, as she was marking me, I knew I was not going to regret the results I would be waking up to. I have never felt so confident and happy with my body as she has made me feel. From her pre-op routine and post op routine that helps your body heal quickly without any complications, to her amazing skill of injecting with Botox and Filler, Dr. Stark is absolutely the best plastic surgeon.”

- K.O.

“

Start to finish, you will have no complaints guaranteed.

”

“Dr Stark is an incredibly talented surgeon. I am an extremely happy patient of hers; she pays attention to everything! She listens to your concerns and is so thorough and detailed. She is also kind and trustworthy, and an artist. I cannot say enough about her. I trust her completely; consider yourself lucky if you're a patient of hers. Start to finish, you will have no complaints guaranteed.”

- M.V.

“

Dr. Stark is a true artist.

”

“Dr. Stark is a true artist. She takes her time to go over absolutely everything with you. She explains the surgery in full detail and makes you feel extremely comfortable. Her work mimics her bedside manner: it’s incredible. I hardly even notice my incisions, and it looks like I was just blessed with an amazing body, all thanks to her! I finally have my confidence back, and I have to thank it all to her! If you are looking for a surgeon, don’t look any further! Highly recommend!!”

- G.

“

I would definitely go back to Dr. Stark in the future...

”

“I highly recommend Dr. Stark! I had liposuction and excision of axillary breast tissue performed by Dr. Stark in October 2023. She is incredibly knowledgeable and explains every step in a clear, comforting manner. She does not push procedures and, in fact, recommended I hold off on several additions to my procedure that I was interested in. I had no problems with my healing and am incredibly pleased with the results so far. The nursing and administrative staff are also top-notch. They are all so friendly and responsive, and I never felt awkward about any part of the process. I would definitely go back to Dr. Stark in the future if I ever want to have anything else done.”

- H.F.

“

If I were to ever have more work done, Dr. Stark is definitely my go-to.

”

“It was an easy decision to choose Dr. Stark after my initial consultation, where she made me feel welcomed and excited to be a patient of hers. I’m so happy with my results, and everything turned out exactly as we had planned. Leading up to and even after my procedure, Dr. Stark proved to be very attentive with the most genuinely friendly bedside manner I’ve ever experienced with any doctor. Her assistant, Sabrina, was wonderful. She answered every email and question I had and was always welcoming with a smile. If I were to ever have more work done, Dr. Stark is definitely my go-to.”

- K.S

“

Dr. Stark is the absolute BEST!

”

“Dr. Stark is the absolute BEST! I was so grateful to have found someone that I could completely trust to handle my concerns. Through her surgical expertise, I have restored confidence and a new outlook on life. I was so pleased with my procedures and the experience that I have recommended friends.”

- M.H.

“

I've already referred friends to Dr. Stark...

”

“I can't say enough amazing things about Dr. Stark and her incredible team! From the moment I walked in, I felt completely at ease. Dr. Stark's attention to detail and patience throughout the entire process, especially during my recovery, were beyond impressive. Talking about my insecurities and vulnerabilities felt as comfortable as chatting with a close friend. The aftercare nurses were wonderful, and the entire facility was spotless. Everything went so smoothly from start to finish. I'm absolutely obsessed with my results and can't wait to return for more work in the future! I've already referred friends to Dr. Stark, and they are just as thrilled with her attentiveness and dedication to making them feel confident and beautiful. Highly recommend!”

- T.F.

“

I am in love with my results!

”

“Dr. Stark did my liposuction procedure! This was my first ever surgery, but Dr. Stark made me feel completely comfortable the entire time and answered all of my questions and concerns. I am in love with my results! Not only is she a great plastic surgeon, but she has a great bedside manner! I highly recommend her!”

- J.T.

“

I am beyond grateful to Dr. Stark for completely transforming my life.

”

“I am beyond grateful to Dr. Stark for completely transforming my life. The results are absolutely stunning. From my first consultation for my tubular breasts, Dr. Stark's expertise and reassuring manner immediately instilled confidence in me. Her exceptional professionalism, kindness, and unwavering artistry make her the perfect doctor for me. During my recovery, she consistently followed up to ensure my comfort and made herself available whenever needed. Thank you so much, Dr. Stark, you are a miracle worker! I love my breasts and my small waist!”

- H.C.

“

I can’t say enough about how truly amazing Dr. Stark has been...

”

“I can’t say enough about how truly amazing Dr. Stark has been through my surgical journey. I had two babies back to back and couldn’t get my body back to a place of feeling like me again. I met with her, and I knew right then and there that her vision was my vision. She saw exactly what I was saying and made me feel so comfortable making the decision to move forward with a Mommy Makeover procedure in her surgery center. She recommended a Breast Implant with a Lift, some Liposuction, and Upper and Lower Eyelids. She is a true artist. I am two weeks post-op and this experience is life-changing. I couldn’t be happier with how everything looks. I finally feel confident again, and just in time for summer. I one hundred percent recommend her to anyone who is looking to inquire about cosmetic surgery. You will not be disappointed. Thank you from the bottom of my heart, Dr. Stark!!!”

- D.M.

“

Dr. Stark is extremely thorough and so supportive...

”

“Dr. Stark performed an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) and some lipo to my bra line and flanks. To say my expectations were met is an understatement!! I am so thrilled with my results. After four children, I definitely noticed an overall lack of confidence in my body, and that confidence has been restored! Dr. Stark is extremely thorough and so supportive throughout the entire process. I have no regrets whatsoever and would highly recommend Dr. Stark for beautiful results.”

- T.M.

“

I highly recommend Dr. Jennifer Stark!!

”

“Dr. Stark performed an upper blepharoplasty for me, and I'm thrilled with the results!! It was a simple (virtually painless) procedure, and the recovery time was minor. Dr. Stark is brilliant, and she's a true artist. Not to mention she's so lovely along with her staff. I highly recommend Dr. Jennifer Stark!!”

- S.E.

View More Testimonials

Your Tummy Tuck in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village

Evaluating Your Anatomy and Goals

Every abdominoplasty in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village starts with an in-depth one-on-one consultation. There, Dr. Stark will assess your abdominal skin, muscle tone, and body proportions, and you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals and concerns.

Tightening the Abdominal Muscles

During your tummy tuck, all stretched or separated abdominal muscles will be repaired and tightened to restore your core strength and shape. This process also helps to create a flatter, more streamlined contour along the midsection. This process specifically addresses diastasis recti, a common condition after pregnancy that can contribute to core weakness and abdominal bulging.

Removing Excess Skin

Once your abdominal muscles have been tightened into your new shape, Dr. Stark will remove all excess skin and redrape the remaining tissue to suit your figure. Her focus is on creating a natural-looking transition between the abdomen and surrounding areas, thereby crafting an effortless and believable silhouette.

Careful Incision Placement

Your abdominoplasty incisions will be placed low on the abdomen to ensure they remain discreet underneath clothing. Dr. Stark will carefully plan your incision placement to support healing and minimize the appearance of scars over time.

Gentle Recovery for Long-Lasting Results

Every woman’s recovery after a tummy tuck in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village will be unique. Most patients experience swelling, tightness, and fatigue immediately after their procedure.

Light activity, such as walking, is encouraged early to support circulation during recovery, and patients can resume strenuous exercise gradually over the coming months.

Dr. Stark will provide comprehensive post-operative care to ensure you heal steadily and smoothly.

Your recovery will include the following:

Extensive aftercare instructions
Supportive garments to support tissue settling
Multiple follow-up appointments for Dr. Stark to personally monitor your recovery

Most patients return to light daily activities within two to three weeks, with continued improvement in swelling and contour over the following months.

A Final Outcome You’ll Love

Your final results will become apparent gradually as the swelling fades and the tightened abdominal muscles settle into their new positions. Many patients in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village notice an immediate improvement in posture and comfort, with a flatter abdomen becoming apparent over time. Your procedure will be designed to look authentic and age gracefully with the body. Results are long-lasting when supported by a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.

Tummy Tuck Frequently Asked Questions

Is a tummy tuck the same as liposuction?

No. Liposuction removes fat from the midsection, while a tummy tuck removes excess skin and improves muscle laxity in the abdomen. The procedures may be combined for an enhanced smoothing effect along the torso.

Will a tummy tuck affect future pregnancies?

Yes. Future pregnancies can reverse the results of a tummy tuck by stretching the abdominal muscles and skin again. It’s best to wait until you are finished having children to undergo an abdominoplasty.

How soon can I return to work after a tummy tuck?

Most patients resume stationary, non-strenuous work within two to three weeks. Your timing will depend on the extent of your surgery, your healing progress, and the nature of your career.

Is weight loss required before a tummy tuck?

While weight loss is not required before a tummy tuck, patients should be at a stable weight prior to surgery. Significant weight changes can affect your results in the long term.

Schedule Your Consultation for a Tummy Tuck in Thousand Oaks and Westlake Village

Feel and look your best again with a customized tummy tuck from Dr. Stark. Contact her offices today to schedule your consultation and start your journey toward rediscovering your joy and confidence.