Surgical procedure
Tummy Tuck
Also known as: Abdominoplasty
Medically reviewed by Afters Medical Review Board, Board-Certified Specialists
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. It’s particularly effective for patients with separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), commonly caused by pregnancy or significant weight loss.
About Tummy Tuck
What is tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles. It’s particularly effective for patients with separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), commonly caused by pregnancy or significant weight loss. Variations include full tummy tuck, mini tummy tuck, and extended tummy tuck depending on the extent of correction needed.
Who is it for?
- Post-pregnancy mothers looking to restore their midsection
- Patients who have lost a significant amount of weight
- Those with excess abdominal skin that won’t tighten with exercise
- Adults with weakened or separated abdominal muscles
What to expect
A full tummy tuck typically takes 2–4 hours under general anesthesia and involves a hip-to-hip incision hidden below the bikini line. Drains are often placed for a week. Plan for 2 weeks off work and 6–8 weeks before returning to vigorous activity. The scar fades significantly over the first year.
Flatter, firmer abdomenRepairs separated musclesRemoves excess skinScar hidden by clothingDramatic transformation
Tummy Tuck by the numbers
164,022 tummy tuck procedures performed in 2022
Abdominoplasty continues to grow in popularity, up 27% over the past five years
Source: American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) 2022 Statistics
95% patient satisfaction rate
Tummy tucks have one of the highest satisfaction rates among body contouring procedures, especially for post-pregnancy patients
Source: ASPS National Clearinghouse of Plastic Surgery Statistics
60% of tummy tuck patients also have diastasis recti repair
Muscle repair during abdominoplasty addresses separated abdominal muscles, a condition affecting up to two-thirds of postpartum women
Source: Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
Tummy Tuck before & after
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Before & after photos for tummy tuck are coming soon.
Tummy Tuck cost
National averages and city-by-city pricing
National average
$10,000 – $18,000
Surgeon fee, facility, anesthesia
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Recovery timeline
Typical recovery: 2-4 weeks
1
Drains removed
5–7 days
2
Back to desk work
2 weeks
3
Light exercise
4–6 weeks
4
Full activity
6–8 weeks
Full recovery takes 6-8 weeks. Most patients return to desk work in 2-3 weeks.
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Tummy Tuck in every city
Browse tummy tuck specialists and pricing in 51 cities across 3 states.
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Frequently asked questions
What is tummy tuck?
Tummy Tuck (also known as Abdominoplasty) is a cosmetic procedure. Use Afters to compare real results, costs, and find specialists near you.
How much does tummy tuck cost?
National averages typically range from $10,000 to $18,000, but pricing varies by surgeon and location.
How long is recovery for tummy tuck?
Typical recovery is 2-4 weeks. See a day-by-day timeline and what to expect.
How do I find a tummy tuck specialist near me?
Start on the Tummy Tuck Near Me page to explore top cities and learn what to look for—then request consultations from specialists in your area.