Tummy tuck surgery, or abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening underlying muscles to create a smoother, more toned appearance. This procedure is ideal for those with sagging skin or muscle separation from pregnancy, weight changes, or aging, focusing on both aesthetic improvement and functional benefits like better posture, often leading to enhanced confidence based on insights from thousands of patients.
Key Benefits
- Flatter abdomen and improved body contour.
- Strengthened core from muscle repair.
- Boosted self-esteem and clothing options.
What to Expect
Consultations assess skin laxity, muscle condition, and goals with imaging for previews. Surgery lasts 2-4 hours under general anesthesia, involving incisions to excise tissue and tighten muscles. Recovery involves 2-6 weeks of gradual activity resumption as swelling fades. Costs start around $8,000-$12,000, varying by extent.
As a board-certified plastic surgeon with decades of experience at Cary Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I have performed tummy tucks on thousands of patients, earning multiple "Voted Best Plastic Surgery" awards in the area. This procedure is transformative for individuals struggling with abdominal laxity, often post-pregnancy or after significant weight loss, helping restore a contoured midsection that aligns with their fitness efforts and boosts daily comfort. From my practice, I have seen how addressing diastasis recti (muscle separation) not only flattens the abdomen but can alleviate back pain and improve posture, and many patients benefit from combining it with liposuction for refined waistlines or as part of a mommy makeover.
Why Choose Dr. Hanna?
With over thirty years of expertise and thousands of tummy tucks performed, I have developed techniques that emphasize muscle repair for lasting strength and natural contours, steering clear of overly tight appearances that can feel unnatural.
Patients often describe the procedure as life-changing, regaining confidence in their midsection after years of concealing loose skin. As a multiple award-winner for Best Plastic Surgery in Cary, NC, I focus on your individual journey, from post-pregnancy recovery to weight loss achievements, ensuring tailored plans that incorporate liposuction when needed for comprehensive waist refinement and long-term satisfaction.
Actual Patient 
Actual Patient Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
From my experience, a tummy tuck goes beyond aesthetics, it's about reclaiming comfort and strength in your core. Key benefits include:
- Flattened abdomen through removal of stubborn skin and fat that resists diet and exercise.
- Repaired muscle separation to enhance posture, reduce back strain, and improve daily function.
- Refined waistline for better clothing fit and expanded wardrobe choices.
- Resolved issues like skin irritation or overhang for greater mobility and ease.
- Elevated self-esteem; patients frequently report feeling empowered in personal and active pursuits.
- Long-term perks are amplified with stable weight and healthy habits to maintain the toned silhouette.
Visit the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website for complete information on Tummy Tuck surgery.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates are healthy adults with excess abdominal skin or muscle laxity, often post-weight loss or pregnancy, seeking a contoured midsection. Success is highest in those with:
- Stable weight for at least several months to preserve results.
- No plans for future pregnancies, as they can alter outcomes.
- Good overall health and non-smoking status to aid healing.
- You should have realistic goals for natural enhancement. If primarily fat-focused without much skin laxity, liposuction alone may suffice; otherwise, we can discuss combinations.
Schedule a Consultation to find out if you're a candidate.
Tummy Tuck Surgery, Step-by-Step
The surgery occurs in our accredited facility under general anesthesia, lasting two to four hours. Steps include:
- Incision:
Made low across the abdomen, often hip-to-hip for access.
- Tissue Removal:
Excise excess skin and fat; use liposuction if combined.
- Muscle Repair:
Suture separated muscles for a firmer wall.
- Refinement:
Reposition the navel if needed; tighten remaining skin.
- Closure:
Layered sutures; apply compression garment.
You return home the same day with post-operative instructions.
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery centers on healing and support—most patients return to light work in two weeks and full activities in four to six weeks. Based on my protocols:
- Week 1: Rest with assistance; use pain meds, walk gently to promote circulation, manage drains if used.
- Weeks 2-4: Wear compression garments to minimize swelling; resume desk duties, avoid lifting.
- Month 1 and beyond: Gradually reintroduce exercise; monitor scars with creams.
Tips for recovery:
Arrange help for daily tasks, stay hydrated, quit smoking pre/post-op. Long-term: Maintain weight and core exercises for sustained firmness; annual check-ups recommended.
Risks & Complications
As with any surgery, risks exist but are minimized through expertise. Common risks include swelling and bruising, or temporary numbness. More rare risks may involve infection, fluid buildup, or asymmetry.
We review your medical history and discuss all possibilities during your tummy tuck surgery to mitigate risks.
Benefits typically outweigh risks for well-suited candidates, with informed consent ensuring peace of mind.
** Individual results vary
Cost & Financing
We will always provide transparent pricing with no hidden costs. Tummy tuck surgery typically starts at $8,000 which includes anesthesia, facility time, and follow-ups. Surgical technique or combinations like liposuction may affect the final price of your surgery.
We offer financing through CareCredit and accept major cards. During consultation, get a custom quote; insurance may cover if medically necessary.
Schedule a consultation and we'll provide you with a personalized quote for your tummy tuck surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does tummy tuck surgery take? About two to four hours at our practice, depending on extent and combinations.
- Will tummy tuck leave visible scars? Scars are low and concealable under clothing; they fade over six to twelve months with treatments available.
- How many follow-up appointments will I need after surgery? Typically four to six over the first six months, starting in the first week—all included.
- Can I combine tummy tuck with other procedures? Yes, often with liposuction or mommy makeovers for holistic results.
- How long do the results of tummy tuck last? Results endure many years with stable weight and habits; pregnancies may affect them.
- What if I gain weight after tummy tuck surgery? It may compromise contours, but remain improved; we advise healthy living.