Tummy Tuck Surgeons in NYC

What a tummy tuck is

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, removes loose skin and fat from the lower abdomen and usually tightens abdominal muscles that have separated after pregnancy or weight change, a condition called diastasis recti. It is often combined with liposuction of the flanks.

Full, mini and extended

• Full tummy tuck: a hip to hip incision low on the abdomen, usually with muscle repair and a repositioned belly button.
• Mini tummy tuck: a shorter incision for loose skin below the belly button only.
• Extended tummy tuck: a longer incision that also addresses the flanks, often after major weight loss.

The scar sits low, usually where underwear or a swimsuit bottom covers it. Ask to see healed scars, not only the shape.

Are you a candidate?

• You are at a stable weight. A tummy tuck is not weight loss surgery.
• You are finished having children, or understand that a future pregnancy can stretch the area again.
• You can stop nicotine for the period your surgeon requires, since it slows healing.
• You can take time off and arrange help at home.

Choosing a surgeon

• Check board certification. For body and breast surgery, look for the American Board of Plastic Surgery. For the face, facial plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery also perform these procedures.
• Ask how many of this exact procedure the surgeon performs each year, and ask to see before and after photos of patients with a starting point like yours.
• Ask where the surgery happens. New York State requires offices that perform surgery under sedation to be accredited, and hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers are licensed. Ask to see the accreditation.
• Ask who gives anesthesia. A board certified anesthesiologist or a certified registered nurse anesthetist is standard for sedation and general anesthesia.
• Ask what the written quote includes: surgeon fee, anesthesia, facility, garments, medications and follow up visits.

Recovery

Expect to walk slightly bent for the first days, wear an abdominal binder and possibly have drains. Most people return to desk work in about two weeks and wait around six weeks for heavy lifting and core workouts, depending on the surgeon. In a walk up or with a stroller, plan help for the first weeks.