Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty removes excess abdominal skin and can repair laxity in the abdominal wall.
Consult with Dr. Henry Huson at Queen City Plastic Surgery in West Chester, Ohio, serving the Cincinnati area.
- Setting
- Surgical facility; monitoring needs vary
- Anesthesia
- General
- Procedure time
- Individual estimate at consultation
- Recovery
- Several weeks; heavy activity requires clearance
- Results
- Develop over months; results vary
General planning information. Your procedure, anesthesia, recovery, and results depend on your health and treatment plan. Returning to work does not mean full healing.
About the procedure
A tummy tuck removes excess skin and selected fat from the abdomen. When appropriate, sutures tighten the connective tissue over the abdominal muscles. It does not directly strengthen muscles, treat obesity, or remove all stretch marks; only marks on the removed skin are taken away.
A mini, standard, extended, or fleur-de-lis approach may fit different patterns of excess skin. More extensive correction can require longer or additional scars. A stable weight and adequate nutrition support planning. Discuss nicotine use, medications, clot risk, transport home, and help during recovery. Overnight monitoring is determined by the operation and medical needs.
Good candidates
- Excess abdominal skin or laxity after pregnancy or weight change
- A weight that is stable and appropriate for surgical planning
- Adequate nutrition and medical evaluation
- Acceptance of scars and the required recovery restrictions
Candidacy is confirmed at your consultation. Dr. Huson will tell you honestly if a different approach would serve you better.
Before & after
Coming soon
Before and after photos for tummy tuck will be added here.
What to expect
Your consultation
The consultation reviews your goals, medical history, medications, nicotine use, and examination findings. Discuss alternatives, the proposed setting and anesthesia, realistic changes, costs, and the support you will need during recovery.
The procedure
The surgeon removes excess abdominal skin and selected fat and may tighten the connective tissue over the muscles. A standard operation often creates a new opening for the existing navel; a mini or more extensive procedure differs.
Recovery
Expect abdominal tightness, swelling, and restrictions on lifting or core exercise. Drains or a support garment may be used. Follow the plan for walking, clot prevention, wound care, and help at home; a return to desk work does not mean full healing.
Risks and limitations
- Fluid collections, wound separation, skin or fat loss, infection, and lasting numbness can occur.
- Blood clots can travel to the lungs. Long scars, asymmetry, and recurrent laxity may lead to further treatment.
This is not a complete list. Your clinician should explain the risks of the specific procedure and anesthesia, including bleeding, infection, healing problems, and any medical factors that change your risk.
Other options
Liposuction may suit localized fat with good skin elasticity. A panniculectomy addresses an overhanging skin apron with a different goal. Weight management or physical therapy may address concerns that contouring surgery cannot.
Planning your consultation
Bring your medication list and relevant medical history. Ask about the facility, anesthesia team, follow-up, time away from work, and help at home. Request an itemized estimate covering the procedure, anesthesia, facility, and any additional care; confirm coverage directly if insurance may apply.
Common questions
Bring the rest to your consultation. There is no such thing as too many.
Will all stretch marks be removed?
Only stretch marks on the removed skin are taken away. Others remain, though their position may change.
Is this a weight loss or muscle-strengthening operation?
No. It reshapes skin and selected fat and may tighten connective tissue. It does not remove visceral fat or directly build muscle strength.
What should I discuss about nicotine and medications?
Tell your team about all nicotine products, medications, and supplements. Your surgeon will set a cessation and medication plan; do not stop prescribed medicines on your own.
Related procedures
View all 13Sources and further reading
Patient education from Queen City Plastic Surgery. Updated . General information does not replace a personal medical assessment. Sources explain general procedures and do not establish the services or protocols of this practice. Contact the practice with questions or to request a correction.
Ready to talk about Tummy Tuck?
Consultations are free, unhurried, and educational. Bring your questions and your goals; leave with an honest plan.