What Is a Tummy Tuck? 2024 Abdominoplasty Guide with Photos

Let’s face it: Getting a flat and toned stomach is hard work. You can do all the crunches and planks in the world, but sometimes that stubborn belly fat and loose skin just won’t budge. That’s where procedures like a tummy tuck can help — by removing unwanted skin and fat while tightening the abdominal muscles.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through what a tummy tuck surgery is, who it helps, and what to expect. We’ll also show you before and after photos so you can see real results.

What is a tummy tuck?

A tummy tuck, or an abdominoplasty, is a surgery that makes your stomach flatter and firmer. First, the surgeon removes extra skin and fat from the lower abdomen. Then, they tighten the muscles in your abdominal wall. This procedure is beneficial if you have loose, saggy skin or a “pooch” that won’t go away with diet and exercise.

Tummy tucks differ from liposuction, which only removes fat. A tummy tuck also tightens the skin and muscles underneath. It’s a solid choice if you’ve lost a significant amount of weight or have stretched-out skin or muscles from childbearing.

Ideal candidates for a tummy tuck

You’re likely a good candidate for a tummy tuck if you have extra skin or stubborn fat in the stomach, and separation of your rectus (six-pack) muscles. But keep in mind, abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure.

The best candidate for tummy tuck surgery is:

• Healthy with no major medical conditions

• Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking before and after surgery

• People with realistic expectations about the outcomes

• People with diet- and exercise-resistant fat and excess skin in the stomach

• Patients who have a stable weight

• Women who are done with childbearing (pregnancy can affect the results)

• People with weakened or separated abdominal muscles, often due to pregnancy or weight fluctuations

• People committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle post-surgery to preserve results

Benefits of a tummy tuck

Women of all ages get an abdominoplasty for various reasons:

Tighter, firmer abdominal muscles

The midsection can look flabby when abdominal muscles separate. A tummy tuck strengthens and tightens those muscles for a flatter, more toned appearance.

Removal of excess skin and fat

After losing weight or having a baby, you might have extra skin and fat that won’t budge. A tummy tuck gets rid of both so your belly looks smooth and flat again.

Reduction of stretch marks

If you have stretch marks on your lower belly, a tummy tuck may help. It removes the skin with the most stretch marks, making them less noticeable.

Enhanced body posture

Tighter stomach muscles from a tummy tuck can help improve your posture. You’ll likely stand up straighter and have less back pain.

Increased confidence and self-esteem

A tummy tuck can give you a confidence boost that shows in your smile and the way you carry yourself.

Better fit for clothing and swimwear

With a flatter, smoother belly, your clothes will look and fit better. You can wear fitted tops and swimsuits without worrying about bulges or extra skin.

Disadvantages and risks

While a tummy tuck can create remarkable results, it isn’t without downsides and risks (as with any surgery).

Consider the following risks before making a decision:

Risk of complications

Complications you may experience include infection, bleeding, and blood clots. But a board-certified plastic surgeon will walk you through these risks and how to lower them.

Scarring

A tummy tuck leaves a scar along your lower belly, typically below your underwear line  It’ll fade over time, but won’t completely go away. Most can hide it with underwear or a swimsuit.

Pain and discomfort

It’s normal to feel sore and tight after a tummy tuck. Your surgeon will provide tips and prescription medication to help manage discomfort in the first few weeks.

Lengthy recovery time

You may experience swelling for up to three months post-surgery. You’ll need to rest and avoid lifting heavy or exercise for up to six weeks. Follow your surgeon’s instructions to heal properly.

Potential for revision surgery

In some cases, you might need a second surgery to fix problems like skin unevenness. This is more likely if you have complications or aren’t happy with the results.

Cost

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, a tummy tuck costs an average of $7,215 [1]. This doesn’t account for the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, and facility expenses. It’s a big investment, especially considering health insurance plans don’t cover this elective body contouring procedure.

Abdominoplasty vs. tummy tuck

You might hear the words “abdominoplasty” and “tummy tuck” — they refer to the same surgery.

Abdominoplasty is the clinical term for a tummy tuck. It comes from the Latin words “abdomen” (belly) and “plasty” (to shape or mold). In the end, the goal is the same — to flatten and shape the belly.

The two types of tummy tucks are:

• Mini abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck (below the belly button)

• Full abdominoplasty or standard tummy tuck (entire abdomen, hip to hip)

Cost of a tummy tuck

Tummy tuck costs vary significantly. On average, expect to pay between $7,000 and $15,000.

The exact price of tummy tuck surgery depends on the:

• Surgeon’s fee: More experienced surgeons often charge more

• Anesthesia and facility fees: These can add thousands of dollars to the total cost

• Location: Tummy tucks tend to cost more in big cities or areas with a high cost of living

Unfortunately, health insurance won’t pay for tummy tucks because they’re not medically necessary. But many surgeons offer financing plans that let you pay over time. Some even have special deals or discounts — so don’t be shy to ask.

The tummy tuck procedure

Getting an abdominoplasty is a big decision — it helps to know what happens before, during, and after the surgery.

Here’s what the full tummy tuck process looks like:

Step 1: Consultation and planning

You’ll meet with your surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. They’ll examine your stomach and together, you’ll come up with a plan for the surgery.

Step 2: Anesthesia administration

On the day of, you’ll get anesthesia to make you sleep and stay comfortable during the procedure.

Step 3: Incision

Your surgeon will make an incision across your lower belly, usually right above your pubic area. The length of the cut depends on how much skin you need removed.

Step 4: Muscle repair

If your stomach muscles are loose or separated, your surgeon will stitch them together to make them tighter and firmer.

Step 5: Skin removal

Your surgeon will remove the excess skin from your stomach. They’ll pull the remaining skin down and trim away what’s not needed.

Step 6: Navel repositioning

If necessary, your surgeon will make a new hole for your belly button. This helps it look natural with your new, flatter stomach.

Step 7: Closing the incisions

Your surgeon will close the cuts with stitches or surgical tape. They may put thin tubes called drains under your skin to collect fluid and prevent swelling.

Step 8: Recovery and aftercare

After surgery, you’ll need to rest and give your body time to heal. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for yourself, including when you can return to work and exercise. Follow these orders carefully to get the best results and avoid complications.

Recovery and aftercare timing

Tummy tuck recovery takes time and patience.

Here’s what you can expect after the cosmetic procedure:

Immediate post-operative care

Right after surgery, you’ll wear a special garment to support your stomach and reduce swelling. Your surgeon will give clear instructions on how to care for your incisions and when to come back for follow-up visits.

Expected timeline for recovery

Everyone’s recovery is unique, but here’s a rough timeline you can expect:

• Days 1-3

  • Rest at home, ideally with someone around to help with chores

  • Manage pain and discomfort with prescribed medication

  • Wear compression garment to reduce swelling

  • Avoid bending, lifting, or straining

• Weeks 1-2

  • Continue wearing compression garment

  • Begin light walking to promote circulation

  • Avoid strenuous activities and lifting

  • Drains removed (if used) and stitches removed (if not dissolvable)

• Weeks 2-4

  • Gradually increase activity, but still avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting

  • May return to work (depending on job type)

  • Swelling and bruising subside

• Weeks 4-6

  • Transition back to normal activities

  • Begin scar management (e.g. massage, topical treatment)

  • Resume light exercise with surgeon’s approval

• Months 2-3

  • Swelling continues to diminish

  • Scar continues to fade

  • Resume regular exercise routine with surgeon’s approval

• Months 6+

  • Final results show

  • Scar will continue to fade over time

  • Maintain results with a healthy diet and regular exercise

Tips for a smooth recovery

Help your body heal quickly and smoothly by following these tips:

• Get plenty of rest

• Stay hydrated and have a balanced diet

• Don’t smoke (this slows healing)

• Avoid salt (this increases swelling)

• Take short walks to improve circulation and prevent blood clots

• Wear your compression garment as directed

Long-term care and maintenance

To keep your tummy tuck results looking great, maintain a stable weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Protect your scar from the sun, and moisturize it to help it fade. Keep in touch with your surgeon for any concerns.

Common side effects of a tummy tuck

It’s normal to have temporary side effects after a tummy tuck. They should subside with time and rest.

Common ones include:

• Swelling and bruising in the treated areas

• Pain and soreness, which prescribed medication can help with

• Temporary numbness or changes in skin sensation

• Scarring, although scars typically fade over time and can be hidden under clothing

• Fatigue and tiredness during the initial recovery period

• Fluid accumulation or seromas, which may require drainage

• Inflammation and redness at the incision sites

• Irregularities in skin contour, such as dimpling or waviness, which usually improve over time

How long do the results of a tummy tuck last?

Tummy tuck results can last a long time as long as you maintain a steady weight through healthy eating and regular exercise. Big weight fluctuations can cause your skin to stretch out again and undo some of the tightening effects of the surgery.

Pregnancy can also affect your tummy tuck results. If you get pregnant after a tummy tuck, your abdominal muscles may stretch and separate. Then, you may need a second surgery to restore your flat stomach.

While nothing can stop the natural aging process, a healthy lifestyle can help you enjoy your tummy tuck results for years to come.

Before and after result photos

A picture is worth a thousand words when it comes to tummy tuck results.

Check out these real before and after photos from Roham Plastic Surgery to see the incredible transformations possible with this body contouring surgery:

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Can a tummy tuck help with stretch marks?

A tummy tuck may help with stretch marks, but only those on the skin being removed. Stretch marks on the remaining skin will still be visible.

Will I have a visible scar after a tummy tuck?

Yes, a tummy tuck will leave a scar along the lower part of your abdomen, typically from hip to hip. But a skilled surgeon will place the incision low enough so you can hide it with underwear and swimsuit bottoms. Tummy tuck scars become less noticeable as it fades over time.

Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?

While it’s possible to have children after a tummy tuck, it’s best to wait until you’re done. Getting pregnant can stretch out the abdominal muscles and skin, undoing the results of your surgery. Going through pregnancy after a tummy tuck may require you to get a touch-up procedure to restore your results.

How soon can I return to work after the procedure?

Most people take two weeks off work after a tummy tuck, depending on their job. Those working at a desk may be able to go back to work within four to five days. If your work involves heavy lifting or strenuous activity, you may need more time off.

Choosing a plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck

Choosing the right plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck is imperative for top-notch results.

Here’s what you should look for:

Board certification

Make sure your surgeon has board certification with the American Board of Plastic Surgery or American Osteopathic Board of Surgery in the Plastic Surgery Discipline. This means they’ve finished extensive training and passed rigorous exams in plastic surgery.

Experience

Ask how many tummy tucks your surgeon has performed and how often they do this procedure. An experienced surgeon is more likely to give you remarkable results and minimize complications.

Before and after photos

Look at before and after photos of your surgeon’s previous tummy tuck patients. Do the results look natural and consistent? Do the “after” photos look like the results you want?

Communication and comfort

During your consultation, make sure your surgeon listens to your goals and answers all your questions. You should feel comfortable and confident in their care.

Tummy tuck in Southern California | Roham Plastic Surgery

Are you considering tummy tuck surgery in Orange County? Roham Plastic Surgery can help. As a board-certified surgeon focused on cosmetic surgery, Dr. Ali Roham provides personalized care and natural-looking results that patients love.

Call 949-269-7990 to book your consultation and take the first step toward a firmer, flatter, and more confident you.

Sources:

1. How much does a tummy tuck cost?, American Society of Plastic Surgeons