Sometimes, no matter how much you exercise or eat well, achieving a flat stomach is still difficult. Childbirth, weight changes, aging, surgery, or even genetics can leave behind loose skin and weakened muscles in the abdomen. At American Medical Center, the tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a popular solution to restore a smoother, firmer midsection.
This procedure removes excess skin and fat, while also repairing stretched or separated abdominal muscles for a more toned and youthful appearance.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
You may be a good candidate if you:
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Are in good overall health
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Don’t smoke or are willing to quit
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Have maintained a stable weight
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Are not planning to become pregnant soon
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Have realistic expectations about the outcome
A tummy tuck is ideal if you have excess abdominal skin, loose muscles, or stubborn fat that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise.
How Is a Tummy Tuck Performed?
Tummy tuck surgery is done under general anesthesia at a licensed medical facility. A horizontal incision is made above the pubic area, usually stretching from hip to hip.
The surgeon will:
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Tighten and reposition the abdominal muscles
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Remove excess skin and localized fat
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Possibly reposition the belly button depending on the extent of the procedure
The incision is then closed and the area is carefully bandaged.
Some patients choose to combine the tummy tuck with liposuction for enhanced contouring, or include it as part of a Mommy Makeover. If your skin is firm and your abdominal muscles are strong, liposuction alone may be sufficient.
Recovery After a Tummy Tuck
Recovery can take several weeks and requires rest and careful aftercare.
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You’ll wear a compression binder and bandages
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Thin drainage tubes may be placed to remove fluid
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Pain medication and antibiotics will be prescribed
You’ll need someone to assist you at home for the first few days. Light activity is allowed after two weeks, and most people can resume full activity, including exercise, by six to eight weeks.
You’ll be given detailed post-op instructions, including how to care for your drains and incision site.
Expected Results
After healing begins and swelling subsides, you’ll notice a flatter, tighter abdomen with improved definition. Some patients also report better posture and core stability due to the tightening of abdominal muscles.
Scarring is expected along the incision but will fade gradually over several months to a year.
Results are long-lasting—possibly permanent—if you maintain a healthy weight and avoid future pregnancies or major weight fluctuations.