Answers to the Top 6 Most Commonly Asked Questions about Tummy Tucks

Abdominoplasty, more commonly known as a tummy tuck, is one of the most sought after cosmetic procedures in body contouring. At the same time, the surgery is not as well known as breast augmentation or liposuction, and its many variations can result in some common tummy tuck misconceptions. Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about abdominoplasty.

1. What’s the Average Cost of a Tummy Tuck?

Like all cosmetic surgeries, the costs of a tummy tuck vary depending on the practice, the type of tummy tuck and any specific patient needs. Most U.S. tummy tuck patients spend anywhere from $6,000 to $11,000 for their procedure, but the majority of surgeons prefer to meet with their patients before providing an estimate for the cost so they can make an informed assessment. If you’re concerned about tummy tuck costs, keep in mind that many practices accept CareCredit® or other financing options to help make your procedure as affordable as possible.

2. How Long Does Recovery Take?

Again, recovery time differs depending on the patient and procedure, but in general, patients may take about two weeks before returning to work, and four weeks before resuming exercise and other activities. However, patients who undergo a mini tummy tuck or a drain-free tummy tuck can typically enjoy a shorter and more comfortable recovery.

3. Can I Include Lipo with My Tummy Tuck?

The C.L.A.S.S. drain-free tummy tuck combines the benefits of a tummy tuck with liposuction for more comprehensive body contouring results. After liposuction is applied to the stomach and flanks as needed, the abdominal muscles are repaired, excess fatty tissue is removed and skin is tightened for a fitter, younger looking abdomen. The C.L.A.S.S. tummy tuck can be an excellent option for patients with lingering stomach fat in addition to excess abdominal skin.

4. Will a Tummy Tuck Help Me Lose Weight?

Patients are recommended to reach their goal weight prior to surgery. This is because although a tummy tuck can remove some fat, especially when combined with liposuction, it is not a weight loss procedure and changes in a patient’s overall weight will be minimal. Instead, the focus of the procedure is on improving body contours by tightening the skin and abdominals to bring out the best in your midsection.

5. Can I Have More Babies after a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck should not affect a woman’s ability to enjoy a healthy pregnancy and carry a child to term. Many surgeons recommend that women wait until after completing their families to undergo a tummy tuck. This is because some of the results of a tummy tuck can be reversed by future pregnancies, as skin may be stretched out again and abdominal muscles can loosen. However, there are many examples of women who have had a tummy tuck before having more children that still feel perfectly happy with their results.

6. Can I Hide My Scars with a Bikini?

During a tummy tuck, your surgeon takes special care to ensure that the scar is placed below your bikini line whenever possible. The length of the incision itself, a horizontal line typically above the pubic bone, depends on whether you undergo a mini or a full tummy tuck, but in either case, the scar should be well hidden even in a bikini or underwear.