Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique
What Are the Benefits of the Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique?

Tight Abdominal Wall

Sculpted Skinny Waistline

Body Confidence
How Is the Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique Done?

Micro-liposuction
Dr. Kao first sculpts the waistline using micro-liposuction. Like traditional liposuction, this method removes excess fat, but Dr. Kao uses a tiny incision, which results in very minimal scarring.
Endoscopic Muscle Tightening and Waist Narrowing
For the appropriate candidate with good skin tone and minimal laxity, Dr. Kao then creates a small incision just above the pubic bone (slightly lower than where a C-section scar would be). A camera and endoscope are used to dissect the tissue from the incision up to the ribs. Using the endoscope, Dr. Kao repairs the loose abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) all the way from the sternum down to the pubic area. This creates a more narrow rib cage and a tighter, more slender waistline.
Skin Removal
Once the waist is tightened, there will be some excess skin that is removed from along the incision.
Navel Repositioning
Dr. Kao can correct the appearance of the navel if it has begun to sag along with the skin. He creates an incision around the navel, which allows him to place it in a more attractive position. Dr. Kao pays special attention to ensure the navel maintains a natural appearance by creating a hood in the upper portion and a gentle slant in the shape. He is especially proud of the natural belly button he can create.
Concerns
Recovery
Following your Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique, you may experience some swelling and bruising in the treated area, but this should resolve after a few weeks. Be sure to avoid all strenuous activities for at least three weeks. However, you will be encouraged to walk around in the first few days following your surgery to prevent blood clots from forming. You will be able to resume all normal activities when Dr. Kao gives his approval, which is usually four weeks after your surgery.
Results
The result of Dr. Kao’s Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique is a narrow rib cage, skinny waistline, and tight abdominal wall, all without the large traditional tummy tuck incisions. This procedure can provide you with an attractive and youthful midsection with beautifully smooth curves.
Scars
Because no incisions are made around the belly button, the Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique does not leave any visible scars when wearing a bikini, and the navel stays intact. The scars from the small puncture from the micro-liposuction portion of the procedure and the small incision at the pubic bone are easily hidden when wearing a swimsuit or underwear and should fade over time.
Cost
The cost of your Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique will vary depending on factors such as facility, surgical, and anesthesia fees. You will receive an accurate price sheet during your consultation with Dr. Kao at his office in Santa Monica.
Concerns
Recovery
Dr. Kao gives a complete anesthetic block of the chest wall at the end of the procedure to suppress initial discomfort after waking up. This usually lasts about eight hours. However, you will experience some bruising, swelling, and redness following your procedure. You might experience some mild discomfort, but prescribed oral medication can control any associated pain. You should avoid strenuous physical activity for three to four weeks following your procedure.
All of Dr. Kao’s patients have the option to stay at the aftercare facility following the procedure. KO’AN Recovery Center is a post-surgical care facility situated just across the street from Dr. Kao’s surgical facility and located in a federally and state-licensed healthcare center.
Most patients can return to work after one week and resume exercise after four weeks. The majority of swelling should begin to subside after six weeks, at which time your final results should become apparent.
Scars
Dr. Kao places incisions and utilizes suturing techniques to minimize any excess scarring. However, mild scarring may develop, which is likely to fade over time.
Cost
The cost of your breast augmentation will vary depending on the technique used, surgical fees, facility fees, and anesthesia fees. A detailed price will be provided during your consultation.
Pain
You are likely to experience some discomfort during your initial recovery period, which can be controlled using an oral pain medication.
Frequently Ask Questions
About the Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique
Am I a good candidate for the Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique?
Women who want to correct a loose abdominal wall and excess fat who have good skin elasticity are ideal candidates for a Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique. Many athletic postpartum women with muscle separation can also benefit from this innovative procedure.
Patients with significant loose skin and sagging in the abdomen may be suited for a traditional tummy tuck to remove larger amounts of tissue.
What type of anesthesia is used for the Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique?
Dr. Kao performs his groundbreaking Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique procedure on an outpatient basis using general anesthesia.
How long does Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique surgery take?
The length of your Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique surgery will depend on the level of correction needed and if any other procedures are combined with your surgery.
Can I use the fat removed from my abdomen to enhance other areas of my body?
The fat removed with micro-liposuction can be purified and then injected to enhance and rejuvenate other areas of the face and body in what is known as fat grafting (fat transfer). The Brazilian Butt Lift procedure uses your own fat to reshape and augment your buttocks. Facial fat transfer can fill wrinkles and hollows for facial rejuvenation with regenerative cells. Dr. Kao also offers fat grafting for breast enhancement.
Are there any risks associated with Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique surgery?
As with most surgical procedures, Skinny Bikini Tuck™ Technique surgery may involve some risks. These include infection, changes in skin sensation, blood clots, and improper wound healing. Should any complications occur, please contact our office immediately.
