The Procedure
During a tummy tuck, your surgeon will make an incision low on the abdomen, typically from hip to hip, to be easily hidden by underwear or a bikini bottom. The surgeon will then remove excess skin and fat, and—most importantly—tighten the underlying abdominal muscles. The skin is then redraped over the newly firmed muscles, creating a smooth and taut appearance. In many cases, the belly button is also repositioned to its natural-looking position.
For those with less excess skin, a mini tummy tuck may be an option, which uses a smaller incision and focuses on the area below the belly button. A tummy tuck can also be combined with liposuction to further refine the waistline and hips.


What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery is a crucial part of the process. You can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with medication. You will need to wear a compression garment to support the healing tissues and help reduce swelling. Most patients can return to work within 2-4 weeks, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting must be avoided for at least six weeks to allow the abdominal muscles to fully heal.
Are You a Candidate?
A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss solution, but a body contouring procedure. The best candidates are individuals who are at or near their ideal body weight, are in good health, and have realistic expectations about the results.
If you are frustrated with a loose and saggy midsection and are ready to feel more confident and comfortable in your body, a tummy tuck might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Schedule a private consultation with our board-certified surgeons to learn more and determine if this procedure is right for you.
