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Tummy Tuck

Home/Surgical Procedures/Body/Tummy Tuck

Length of Treatment: 2.5 – 5 hours
Anesthesia: IV Sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient: Outpatient
Potential Side Effects/Risks: Blood clots, difficulties with healing or anesthesia, excess fat and skin at ends of incisions, scars
Principal Benefits: A flatter, firmer, and more attractive midsection; a trimmer waistline; better fit of clothing; reduced lax skin and/or unwanted belly fat
Time off Work: 1-2 weeks
Physical Activity: Resume strenuous exercise in about 6 weeks

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

Contouring the abdomen and midsection often requires more than just liposuction of excess fat. For those who struggle with drooping inelastic skin, a protruding belly, and/or stretched abdominal muscles, our Baltimore plastic surgeon can develop a surgical tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) plan that is custom-tailored according to one’s specific needs and goals. The amount and location of excess skin, muscle laxity, and several other factors will determine whether a full, mini, extended, or reverse tummy tuck is the best option for you.

Learn more about the various tummy tuck techniques and other abdominoplasty topics by exploring the sections provided below. If you have any questions, or if you wish to schedule a consultation at our practice, please feel free to contact us today.

Am I a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Candidates for tummy tuck surgery generally desire a flatter midsection and trimmer waistline. In many cases, those interested in abdominoplasty have inelastic skin, weakened abdominal muscles, or belly fat that does not respond to diet or exercise routines. Tummy tuck surgery is a popular choice for women whose midsections have seen the effects of pregnancy and childbirth, which can drastically change the appearance of the female body.

To be considered eligible for tummy tuck surgery, you should be in good general health. You should also have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcome, and if you are a smoker, you should be prepared to quit in the weeks immediately before and after the surgery.

Dr. Houssock is proficient in various tummy tuck surgery techniques and can tailor the procedure to your unique goals. She would be happy to work with you to form a personalized plan for your care.

Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck, or full abdominoplasty, is a procedure performed to flatten the abdomen in patients who have excess skin and fat above as well as below the belly button. In addition, many candidates for this procedure also require tightening of the muscles of the abdomen. Frequently these muscles are stretched beyond one’s ability to strengthen them following pregnancy.

Length: 3–4 hours
Anesthesia: IV Sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient: Outpatient
Potential Side Effects/Risks: Problems with anesthesia, blood clots, excess fat and skin at ends of incisions, unsightly scars
Principal Benefits: Flatter tummy and a trimmer waistline

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck, or mini abdominoplasty, is a procedure for individuals who have not only excess fat in the lower abdomen, but also unwanted skin.

Typically, patients who are good candidates for mini tummy tuck have had moderate weight loss with overhanging tummy skin, those women who have had pregnancies with or without a C-section whose skin overhangs a bit, and those whose stomach muscles simply will not tighten enough despite exercise. Mini tummy tuck involves two steps that are performed during the same operation. These steps include removal of lower abdominal skin and liposuction of unwanted fat.

A mini tummy tuck is ideally suited for those whose waistline concern is from below the belly button only. If there is extra abdominal skin and weakness of the abdomen above the belly button, then a full abdominoplasty is needed.

If you would like to learn more about the mini tummy tuck, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our plastic surgeon.

Length: 3 hours
Anesthesia: IV Sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient: Outpatient
Potential Side Effects/Risks: Difficulties with scar healing, infection
Principal Benefits: A tightened and trimmer lower abdomen, new waistline, better fit of clothing

Extended Tummy Tuck

Patients who have an extended amount of additional abdominal skin typically benefit from an extended tummy tuck. The difference between this surgery and the full tummy tuck is essentially the amount of skin tailoring that is required to contour the waistline. The more extensive the amount of skin for contouring, the more “extended” the tailoring seams (i.e. scars) that are needed.

An extended tummy tuck/abdominoplasty is often an excellent option for those patients who have recently lost a substantial amount of weight, whether through bariatric surgery or a strict regimen of diet and exercise. Such weight loss often leaves the skin looking stretched and loose; this skin can weigh several pounds! An extended tummy tuck/abdominoplasty allows for the removal of this skin and tightens the remaining skin and tissue, leaving the body looking more toned and trim than it has in years. In some patients, a full lower body lift is needed if excess skin extends to the sacral and buttock area.

If you would like to learn more about the extended tummy tuck, please contact us today.

Length: 4 – 5 hours
Anesthesia: Epidural and IV sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient: Outpatient
Potential Side Effects/Risks: Problems with anesthesia, blood clots, excess fat and skin at ends of incisions, unsightly scars
Principal Benefits: Flatter tummy and a trimmer waistline
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Reverse Tummy Tuck

Reverse tummy tuck, or reverse abdominoplasty, is a procedure for individuals who have isolated excess fat and/or skin in the upper abdomen. Typically, patients who are good candidates for a reverse tummy tuck have a moderate amount of excess upper abdominal skin with some fat, but little to no excess below the belly button. A reverse tummy tuck is ideally suited for those whose waistline concern is from above the belly button only. As such, if there is extra abdominal skin and weakness of the abdomen below the belly button as well, then a full abdominoplasty is likely the better option.

The reverse tummy tuck involves two steps that are performed during the same operation. These steps include removal of upper abdominal skin and liposuction of unwanted fat. Incisions are typically made in the bra line, extending from under the breast creases and through the midline. This leaves little to no opportunity for scarring around the belly button, as any scars should be well concealed under the breast crease.

Because the incisions are in such close proximity to the breasts, patients often opt to combine the reverse tummy tuck with a breast enhancement procedure (e.g. augmentation or mastopexy). As is the case with a mini tummy tuck, patients are generally advised to practice light activity for six weeks following a reverse tummy tuck in order to preserve results and encourage proper healing.

If you would like to learn more about the reverse tummy tuck, we invite you to schedule a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Carrie Houssock.

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Length: 2.5 hours
Anesthesia: IV Sedation
Inpatient/Outpatient: Outpatient
Potential Side Effects/Risks: Difficulties with scar healing, infection
Principal Benefits: A tightened and trimmer upper abdomen, new waistline, better fit of clothing
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Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction

While many tummy tuck strategies involve liposuction, it’s important to understand that these two techniques are very different in how they’re performed and what they can accomplish. Specifically, tummy tuck surgery was designed to address loose skin in the abdomen or weak abdominal muscles (usually due to pregnancies, excessive weight gain, or weight loss). Meanwhile, liposuction is typically the preferred technique for isolated pockets of fat on the legs, tummy, hips, and elsewhere.

With this in mind, the two procedures are often combined for optimal results. In some cases, the tummy tuck is performed first and second-stage liposuction is done several months later.

Complementary Procedures to Tummy Tuck Surgery

Depending on your aesthetic goals, many body, breast, and even facial enhancement procedures can complement tummy tuck surgery. As we mentioned above, liposuction is often performed in addition to abdominoplasty. Tummy tuck surgery can also accompany breast augmentation, breast lift surgery, or even breast reduction for patients who want to achieve their dream physique. Alternatively, your treatment may include facial contouring procedures, such as a facelift or eyelid surgery. The surgeries incorporated into your care will depend on your unique needs, and Dr. Houssock is excited to discuss these options with you during your consultation.

What is the Tummy Tuck Procedure Like?

There are multiple kinds of tummy tuck procedures and each specific procedure will vary somewhat in terms of how it is performed. With that in mind, a full tummy tuck procedure, which is typically the most frequently performed option, generally begins with an incision made from one hip to the other, just above the pubic area. In many cases, another incision will be made in the navel area so the belly button can be repositioned. Dr. Houssock will then tighten and repair abdominal muscles, remove excess abdominal skin, and pull the remaining skin taut. This should result in a smoother, firmer, and “flatter” abdomen.

Tummy tuck procedures require sedation techniques; however, they can be performed on an outpatient basis for many individuals. With that in mind, it may be best to stay overnight at the hospital in some cases. Dr. Houssock can talk more with you about what to expect once you have been evaluated during the initial consultation.

What Is Recovery from Abdominoplasty Like?

Most patients who undergo abdominoplasty experience moderate to considerable soreness for a few days, but this should improve quickly thereafter. Drains are used and remain in place for 7–14 days. Most people take one to two weeks off from work to recuperate.

Pain medication can often keep discomfort as minimal as possible. Bruising and swelling in the treatment area can be expected for several days; however, this should subside as the area continues to heal. Most patients will also be provided with a post-operative compression garment to aid recovery and help control swelling. Our team usually recommends that patients refrain from strenuous exercises and activities which may add pressure or strain to the abdomen for at least six weeks.

How Long Do Tummy Tuck Results Last?

While tummy tuck results can be very long-lasting, they are not necessarily permanent. Factors such as weight fluctuations, childbirth, pregnancy, and even just the natural course of aging can compromise surgical effects. As such, Dr. Houssock advises patients who have undergone abdominoplasty to adhere to a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Additionally, because hormones can mar the results of the surgery, Dr. Houssock generally recommends that patients complete their families prior to pursuing abdominoplasty.

Will I Have Tummy Tuck Scars?

Virtually all surgical procedures will leave some form of scarring and tummy tuck surgery is no exception. Full tummy tuck surgery will produce a scar in the lower abdominal region and a smaller scar near the navel if an incision in that area is necessary. Fortunately, tummy tuck scars can generally be easily concealed under clothing (even swimwear), and they will likely fade to a certain degree over time. Dr. Houssock completely understands patients’ concerns about residual scarring and utilizes incision techniques that can help make scars as light in appearance as possible.

Is There a Non-Surgical Tummy Tuck Alternative?

There are currently no non-surgical alternatives to a tummy tuck that can effectively address the same concerns or produce similar results. While some have claimed that exercises or devices such as the Tummy Tuck Belt® and others can achieve similar outcomes to an abdominoplasty, the fact is that nothing but surgery can repair loose musculature and remove excess skin the way that a tummy can. With that in mind, some individuals may be good candidates for a less invasive surgical procedure called BodyTite™ , which utilizes radiofrequency-assisted lipolysis techniques to reduce signs of excess skin and fat in targeted areas of the body such as the abdomen. For patients who are primarily concerned about mild to moderate levels of excess fat in the abdominal region rather than excess skin, a non-surgical procedure such as CoolSculpting® may offer an alternative to a surgical option such as liposuction. Dr. Houssock will be happy to talk more with you about it once you have been evaluated and help you determine whether CoolSculpting®, BodyTite™, or other options may be ideal for your needs. However, if the concerns are primarily related to prominent levels of excess skin in the abdomen and/or loose abdominal musculature, a tummy tuck may be the only procedure that will be effective for those conditions.

How to Choose the Right Tummy Tuck Surgeon

Deciding to undergo tummy tuck surgery is a highly personal choice, and selecting the right plastic surgeon can make all the difference in your experience and results. When researching potential surgeons, it’s essential to consider training, board certification, surgical outcomes, and approach to patient care.

One of the most important qualifications to look for is certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This certification confirms that a surgeon has undergone rigorous education and hands-on training specifically in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Dr. Carrie Houssock is not only ABPS-certified but also highly regarded for her artistic skill and compassionate demeanor. She trained at some of the most respected institutions in the country and has contributed to numerous peer-reviewed medical publications. Her approachable, supportive manner puts patients at ease, and her passion for helping others shines through in every consultation.

If you’re ready to begin your tummy tuck journey, Dr. Houssock would be honored to meet with you for a one-on-one consultation.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?

At our Baltimore-area practice, the average cost of a tummy tuck procedure is $8,000 to $9,000 for a mini-tummy tuck, $12,500 to $13,500 for a standard (full) tummy tuck, $13,000 to $14,000 for an extended tummy tuck, and $10,000 to $11,000 for a reverse tummy tuck. These price ranges include all costs associated with the procedure, including:

  • Anesthesiology fees
  • Surgeon’s fees
  • All pre- and post-op appointments
  • Operating room fees
  • Any post-operative garments

While our price ranges are an accurate representation of the average tummy tuck cost, the overall expense of your tummy tuck may fall above or below these figures. The specific details of your surgical plan ultimately determine the cost of your abdominoplasty.

For an accurate tummy tuck quote, it is necessary to schedule a consultation with Dr. Houssock. Following your appointment, you can review a detailed estimate for your personalized surgery, as well as ask any questions you may have. If you decide to move forward with surgery, a knowledgeable member of our office team can discuss topics including the payment process, scheduling, and financing. For qualified applicants, third-party lenders we partner with – including ALPHAEON™ CREDIT and CareCredit® – offer a range of plastic surgery financing options designed to make cosmetic procedures more affordable.

If you are considering a tummy tuck and want to find out if the procedure is right for you, please contact our practice to schedule your consultation.

Answers to Frequently Asked Tummy Tuck Questions

Is tummy tuck surgery safe?

Tummy tuck surgery is considered safe when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Like any surgery, there are potential risks, but choosing an experienced surgeon and following pre-and post-operative care instructions generally minimizes such complications.*

Is tummy tuck surgery painful?

Patients typically do not experience discomfort during the surgery itself, as sedation is usually administered throughout the procedure. With this in mind, it is common to notice soreness, bruising, and swelling as you recover. Adhering closely to your aftercare instructions, taking post-operative medications, and using compression garments as advised can help mitigate these side effects.

Why are drains necessary after a tummy tuck?

Drains are typically placed after a tummy tuck to help remove excess fluid, which can build up during the healing process. They can reduce swelling, promote proper healing, and lower the risk of infection. They are typically removed within a week or two as your body adjusts and fluid production decreases.

How much weight can I lose with tummy tuck surgery?

While a tummy tuck can dramatically contour and reshape the abdominal area, it is important to understand that it is not designed to help with weight loss. In fact, candidates for abdominoplasty should be at a relatively healthy weight for a safe procedure and recovery. That said, tummy tuck surgery is often ideal for those who want to refine their post-weight-loss physique.

What happens if I gain weight after tummy tuck surgery?

Gaining a significant amount of weight after a tummy tuck can compromise the results of the procedure. The abdominal area may stretch out again, leading to sagging skin or an uneven appearance. For this reason, Dr. Houssock urges patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle following the surgery.

Can I speak to some of your previous patients who had a procedure, such as a tummy tuck, and get a reference?

Absolutely; our plastic surgeon would encourage this. In fact, her past patients are her greatest endorsement. Our staff will gladly arrange this for you.

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more about tummy tuck surgery, please contact JEV Plastic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics today.

Medical References*

Cleveland Clinic