How much does a tummy tuck cost?

$8,000–$15,000 surgeon fee + anesthesia ($2,000–$3,500) + facility. Mini tummy tuck: $5,000–$10,000 total. Adding liposuction of the flanks: additional $2,000–$5,000.

Will a tummy tuck remove stretch marks?

Stretch marks below the navel are removed with the excised skin in a full abdominoplasty. Upper-navel stretch marks move downward and some may also be removed. Stretch marks remaining above the new navel are not affected.

Can I have a tummy tuck after a C-section?

Yes — a tummy tuck is frequently performed on patients with prior C-sections. The C-section scar can sometimes be incorporated into the tummy tuck incision. Prior C-section may affect skin blood supply, which your surgeon accounts for in technique planning.

What is a Mommy Makeover?

A term for combining a tummy tuck with breast procedures (typically lift and/or augmentation) and sometimes liposuction in a single surgery. Combined procedures increase surgery duration, anesthesia time, and overall risk — discuss the specific risk profile of your combination with your surgeon.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) — Find Trusted Plastic Surgery Professionals

What Is Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

Abdominoplasty addresses excess abdominal skin and separated muscles that cannot be corrected by diet and exercise — most commonly sought after pregnancy or significant weight loss.

Who Is a Tummy Tuck For

Ideal candidates: excess abdominal skin causing functional or cosmetic concern, diastasis recti, completed their family (pregnancy after tummy tuck compromises results), stable weight for 6+ months, and realistic recovery expectations.

Full vs. Mini Tummy Tuck

Full abdominoplasty: removes excess skin above and below navel, repositions belly button, repairs full diastasis recti — hip-to-hip incision, comprehensive results. Mini tummy tuck: below-navel excess only, limited diastasis repair — shorter scar, faster recovery, appropriate only for patients with mild lower-abdomen-only changes.

Muscle Repair

Diastasis recti (abdominal muscle separation) creates a 'pooch' that core exercise cannot fix — the muscles have separated from the midline. Abdominoplasty repairs the fascia sheath, creating a flatter, more functional core. This also reduces back pain in many patients by restoring core support.

Recovery

Drains for 1–2 weeks. Compression garment for 4–6 weeks. Limited mobility for 2 weeks. Desk work: 2–3 weeks. Full activity: 6 weeks. Scar maturation: 12–18 months. The hip-to-hip scar fades significantly but should be positioned low enough to be hidden by underwear.

What to Look for in a Plastic Surgery Provider

Board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) specifically — verify at abplasticsurgery.org
Hospital privileges at a Joint Commission-accredited facility
Accredited surgical facility (AAAASF, AAAHC, or Medicare-certified) for in-office procedures
Substantial before/after portfolio of your specific procedure
No disciplinary actions on your state's medical board website
Realistic, procedure-specific quotes — not vague 'starting at' prices

Professional Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)