What to Know Before Getting an Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

An abdominoplasty removes excess abdominal skin and fat and tightens the abdominal wall to improve contour. Candidates should have stable weight and not plan future pregnancies. Procedures range from mini to full and extended tucks and are often combined with liposuction. Recovery includes 2-4 weeks for light activity and 6-12 weeks before full return to exercise. Discuss risks, scars, smoking cessation, costs, and surgeon credentials before deciding.

What abdominoplasty does

Abdominoplasty (commonly called a tummy tuck) removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen and tightens the abdominal wall muscles. Surgeons perform it to improve abdominal contour when diet and exercise haven't corrected loose skin or separated muscles (diastasis recti).

Who is a good candidate

Typical candidates are adults with stable weight who do not plan further pregnancies. Pregnancy can stretch muscles and skin and may reduce or reverse surgical results. People with significant medical conditions or uncontrolled obesity should discuss risks with their surgeon.

Common procedure types

• Mini (partial) abdominoplasty: smaller incision, limited to lower abdomen; often treats mild skin laxity.

• Full abdominoplasty: hip-to-hip incision, repositioning of the navel, and more extensive muscle tightening.

• Extended or circumferential abdominoplasty: extends toward the flanks or thighs to address excess skin after large weight loss.

• Variations: many surgeons combine a tummy tuck with liposuction (sometimes called lipoabdominoplasty) or use different scar patterns (for example, a fleur-de-lis design after massive weight loss).

Recovery and timeline

Expect bruising, swelling, and some discomfort for the first 1-2 weeks. Most people can return to light activities within 2-4 weeks and to more strenuous exercise after 6-12 weeks, depending on the extent of the operation and individual healing. Surgeons may use drains temporarily and prescribe compression garments to reduce swelling.

Risks and things to discuss with your surgeon

All surgery carries risks: infection, bleeding, seroma (fluid collection), poor wound healing, numbness, visible or widened scars, and blood clots. Smoking increases complication rates and delays healing; many surgeons advise stopping tobacco for several weeks before and after surgery.

Discuss anesthesia type, expected scars and placement, realistic outcomes, pain control, drain use, and a clear follow-up plan. Ask how the surgeon manages complications and see before-and-after photos of patients with a similar body type.

Cost and choosing a surgeon

Costs vary widely by country, facility, and the complexity of the procedure. Confirm whether quoted fees include anesthesia, facility costs, garments, and follow-up visits. In the U.S., look for a board-certified plastic surgeon; internationally, verify equivalent local credentials and hospital privileges.

Final considerations

Abdominoplasty can dramatically change abdominal contour, but it is not a quick substitute for weight loss or a guarantee against future changes from aging or pregnancy. Have realistic goals, get a thorough preoperative assessment, and plan adequate recovery time.