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Tummy Tuck Surgery (Abdominoplasty)

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying abdominal muscles. It is ideal for patients who have developed sagging skin or muscle separation (diastasis recti) due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.

The result is a flatter, firmer, and more toned abdominal profile.

Why Do People Choose Tummy Tuck Surgery?

  • To eliminate loose, hanging abdominal skin
  • To reduce or remove stretch marks on the lower abdomen
  • To tighten separated abdominal muscles after pregnancy or weight loss
  • To improve core strength, posture, and comfort in clothing
  • To boost self-confidence and body image

Who Is a Good Candidate?

  • You may be a suitable candidate if you:

    • Have loose or sagging skin in the abdominal area

    • Experience weakened abdominal muscles or poor core support

    • Are at a stable, healthy weight

    • Do not plan future pregnancies

    • Are in good overall health and don’t smoke

    • Have realistic expectations

    Note: Tummy tuck is not a substitute for weight loss or a treatment for obesity.

Types of Tummy Tuck Surgery

Full Tummy Tuck

Removes excess skin and fat from both upper and lower abdomen and tightens the abdominal muscles. The belly button is repositioned.

Best for: Moderate to severe laxity and muscle separation.

Mini Tummy Tuck

Targets lower abdominal area only with a smaller incision and no belly button repositioning.

Best for: Mild skin excess or “pooch” below the navel.

Extended / Fleur-de-lis Tummy Tuck

Removes a greater amount of skin (both horizontally and vertically), often used after massive weight loss or bariatric surgery.

Best for: Patients with large amounts of excess skin.

How Is It Performed?

  • Performed under general anesthesia
  • A horizontal incision is made above the pubic area
  • Skin and fat are removed, and abdominal muscles are tightened
  • Belly button may be repositioned (for full tummy tucks)
  • Sutures close the incisions; drains may be placed temporarily
  • Compression garments are applied for support

Before Tummy Tuck

  • Before undergoing surgery, your surgeon will:

    • Conduct a thorough physical exam and medical history review

    • Evaluate your skin tone, abdominal fat, and muscle structure

    • Provide lab tests and clearance for anesthesia

    • Advise you to stop smoking, drinking alcohol, and blood-thinning medications

    • Recommend maintaining a stable weight for at least 6 months

    • Take pre-operative photos and discuss realistic outcomes

    • Give fasting and hygiene instructions for the night before surgery

After Tummy Tuck

  • You’ll be discharged same day or after 1 night in most cases
  • A compression garment must be worn for 4–6 weeks
  • You’ll walk bent at the waist for the first few days to reduce tension
  • Drains, if used, are typically removed within 5–10 days
  • Avoid strenuous activity and lifting for at least 6 weeks
  • Follow your surgeon’s post-op care and medication plan
  • Scar care and follow-up appointments will be scheduled

Healing Process After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Week 1

  • Swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal

  • Drains (if placed) collect fluid

  • Walking is encouraged (with support) to improve circulation

  • Pain is controlled with medication

  •  

Week 2-3

  • Drains are usually removed

  • Light daily activities resume

  • Swelling starts to decrease, but you may still walk slightly bent

  • Sutures (if external) are removed

  • You may begin to see early contour improvement

Week 4-6

  • Most patients return to work and light exercise

  • Standing fully upright becomes more comfortable

  • Swelling continues to decrease

  • Scars begin to mature (tape or silicone recommended)

Month 3 and Beyond:

  • Results become visible as swelling resolves
  • The abdomen appears flatter, firmer, and more contoured
  • Scars gradually fade and can be treated cosmetically if needed
  • Patients often resume all normal activities and fitness routines

Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery

  • Removes excess skin and stubborn fat

  • Flattens the abdominal profile

  • Tightens core muscles and improves posture

  • Reduces discomfort from loose skin or skin rashes

  • Enhances comfort in clothes and swimwear

  • Improves body confidence and physical well-being

Frequently asked questions

Yes. The scar typically runs low across the bikini line, allowing it to be hidden by underwear or swimwear. It fades significantly with proper care.

You may feel tightness and soreness, especially in the first week. Pain is manageable with medication and gradually improves.

 

Stretch marks located on the removed skin (usually below the belly button) will be eliminated. Other stretch marks may improve in appearance.

Yes, the results are long-lasting if you maintain a healthy weight and avoid future pregnancies. Natural aging continues but won’t reverse the core improvements.

Most patients return to office work within 10–14 days. Physically demanding jobs may require 4–6 weeks of recovery.

Absolutely. Tummy tuck is often combined with liposuction, breast lift, mommy makeover, or body contouring for enhanced results.

No. While you may look slimmer, tummy tuck is a contouring procedure, not a weight loss surgery.

Light walking begins early. Strenuous workouts and abdominal exercises resume after 6–8 weeks, with your surgeon’s clearance.