A tummy tuck plastic surgery, or abdominoplasty, is a procedure that involves removing excessively saggy skin in the abdominal area; using liposuction techniques to remove fat and skin in the belly to get rid of a protruding abdomen; and tightening weakened abdominal muscles.
Women who plan to become pregnant in the future or wish to lose excessive weight should discuss with the tummy tuck surgeon the options, as child birthing and rapid weight loss could undo the results of the procedure.
Also, scars from previous abdominal surgeries could limit results from the tummy tuck cosmetic surgery.
Tummy Tuck Cost
Tummy tuck cosmetic surgery includes three different costs: the tummy tuck surgeon’s fee, the anesthesiologist’s fee, and the surgical setting fee. The surgeon’s fee will vary due to the extent of the tummy tuck surgery and the skill of the surgeon.
The average total cost of the procedure is between $3,000 and $8,500. Costs will also vary with geographical location. For instance, a tummy tuck in San Diego, California will vary in cost than a tummy tuck located in New York City.
A recommended cosmetic surgery center in San Diego is the Sadrian Plastic Surgery (www.sadrianplasticsurgery.com).
Tummy Tuck Recovery
Tummy tuck recovery time will be spent in an outpatient setting. Individuals could be released in as little as a few hours to several days. There will be some swelling from the tummy tuck as well as some discomfort and bruising.
Your physician will advise you to have someone at home to assist you within the first ten days and to help administer any necessary pain medications during your tummy tuck recovery time. The doctor may also suggest a laxative and stool softener to help bowels move along without putting strain on the abdominal muscles.
Drainage tubes will be removed between 4-7 days, then sutures are extracted between 7-10 days. A compression garment will have to be worn for up to 6 weeks. During your tummy tuck recovery, the doctor will advise you to move around with assistance to help decrease the risk of blood clot formation in the legs.
Strenuous activity can be resumed within 6-8 weeks. Taking all these precautions and advice will help lead to a full and speedy recovery.
Detailed Recovery Timeline
The first week after a tummy tuck is the most challenging, as swelling and discomfort peak during this time. Most patients can walk carefully within a day or two, which helps reduce the risk of blood clots.
By the second week, bruising begins to fade, and pain is usually manageable with over-the-counter medication. Light activities and short walks are encouraged, but lifting, bending, or strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 4–6 weeks.
Patients with desk jobs often return to work within 2–3 weeks, while physically demanding jobs may require 6–8 weeks off.
How to Maintain Your Tummy Tuck Results Long-Term
After investing in abdominoplasty, patients naturally want to know how to preserve their results. Maintaining a stable weight, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular exercise are critical for ensuring long-lasting results.
While a tummy tuck permanently removes excess skin and fat, future weight gain or pregnancy can stretch the abdominal area again.
Searches like “how long do tummy tuck results last?” or “how to keep tummy flat after surgery” are common, and the answer lies in ongoing healthy habits and consistent follow-up care with your plastic surgeon.
Tummy Tuck Scar Care and Long-Term Healing
Patients undergoing this operation will have a small scar surrounding the belly button area, while a bigger scar will run transverse to where the larger incisions were made.
The scars will be permanent and visible, but can be easily concealed under a bathing suit, outer clothing or underwear.
Scars are a normal part of abdominoplasty recovery, but proper care can make them less noticeable over time. Silicone sheets or gels, combined with consistent sun protection, can significantly improve the appearance of scars.
Most tummy tuck scars start out red or pink and gradually fade to a thin, pale line over 12–18 months. Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions, avoiding smoking, and maintaining good nutrition all promote better wound healing and more discreet final results.