A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes loose, stretched skin from the lower belly and tightens the underlying muscles. The result is improved body contours and a smoother, flatter abdomen. This transformative procedure helps many of our NYC patients feel more confident, trim, and fit. In this post, you’ll see real patient transformations and learn how tummy tuck results in NYC can address separated ab muscles, hernias, and more. I also discuss factors like ideal body weight, insurance coverage, and recovery expectations. Use the links below to jump to the section that interests you:
You can also read through the entire post to gain a deeper understanding of tummy tuck surgery.
Before And After Tummy Tuck Photos
My patients’ before and after photos illustrate how dramatically the procedure can transform the body. For example:
Case 223: A patient’s lower belly appears smoother and the waistline more contoured post-surgery.
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Tummy Tuck After C-Sections: Even with aggressive exercise, she couldn’t reclaim her pre-baby figure until surgery realigned and tightened her midsection.
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Tummy Tuck With Hernia Repair: Patients with hernias often have them repaired during the same procedure.
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These images demonstrate real outcomes you can expect from a skilled, board-certified surgeon. For additional examples, view my gallery of tummy tuck before and after photos
Surgical Techniques Behind the Results
Understanding the surgical process helps set realistic expectations. I perform abdominoplasty using techniques tailored to each patient:
Standard incision: A long incision runs from hip to hip, low on the abdomen. Skin is separated from underlying tissues and the abdominal muscles are tightened with sutures.
Umbilical repositioning: A second small incision around the belly button allows it to remain in place while I tighten the upper abdomen. The umbilicus is later brought through a new opening for a natural appearance.
Combined procedures: Hernia repairs, liposuction, or breast augmentation can be performed simultaneously for comprehensive contouring.
Tailored approaches: For patients with excess horizontal and vertical skin (such as after massive weight loss), a fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty adds a vertical scar to remove more tissue. For men, the incision is shaped differently to suit their anatomy.
These techniques ensure the results look proportional and natural.
Tummy Tuck Patient Videos
Videos allow you to see the procedure in action and hear firsthand accounts. On our YouTube channel, you’ll find clips that:
- Explain the surgical steps, from incision placement to muscle tightening and skin removal
- Detail patient experiences including recovery tips and personal motivations for surgery
- Show surgical results at various stages of healing
Patients often note how the procedure restored their confidence and allowed them to return to activities they love. Video content complements the before and after photos, giving you a fuller understanding of the tummy tuck journey.
The following video explains the procedure in more depth; you can view this and more on our YouTube Channel.
What to Expect During Recovery
Recovery is a critical phase of your transformation. Here’s a breakdown of typical milestones (exact timing varies by individual):
- First 1 to 2 weeks: Rest at home; a friend or family member should help with basic tasks. You’ll wear bandages and compression garments and take medications as prescribed.
- Week 1: You can usually begin light walking to promote circulation, but avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least 4–6 weeks.
- Week 2 to 3: Most patients feel markedly better by Day 5 and can return to light work or normal daily activities, although you may still experience mild discomfort.
- Weeks 4 to 6: Swelling subsides gradually; you may be cleared to resume moderate exercise.
- Months 3 to 6: Swelling continues to decrease, and your abdomen takes on its new shape.
- Months 6 to 12: Final results become evident as swelling fully resolves and scars mature.
Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are essential for the best outcome. If you’re curious about scar placement, read our article on tummy tuck scar healing and placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do real tummy tuck results look like?
Real results show a flatter, firmer abdomen with smoother contours. Our before and after photos demonstrate how the surgery removes excess skin, tightens muscles, and restores a more youthful silhouette. Every patient is unique, so outcomes vary depending on your anatomy, the surgical technique, and whether procedures like liposuction or hernia repair are combined.
When will I see the final results after a tummy tuck?
Swelling and redness can obscure your results for several months. ASPS notes that although you’ll stand straighter within a week or two, it may take up to a year for swelling to fully resolve. Surgeons advise that final contours often appear between 6 months and a year, after which scars continue to fade.
Are tummy tuck results permanent?
Tummy tuck results are considered longlasting. The procedure removes excess skin and repairs muscles, creating a firmer midsection. However, maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle is crucial: pregnancy or major weight fluctuations can stretch the skin and muscles again. Minor changes occur naturally with aging, but most patients enjoy their improved contours for many years.
Schedule Your Consultation
A tummy tuck can transform your abdomen and restore your confidence, but it’s essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon, understand the surgical technique, and prepare for recovery. Explore my photo gallery and videos to see real NYC tummy tuck results. I invite you to schedule a consultation using the online form or call us at (212) 249-4020 if you’re considering this life-changing procedure.
This blog post was originally written in December 2016 and updated in April 2025.
Can I get your number
My New York City office phone number is (212) 249-4020.
I hope we hear from you soon!
This was such an informative article. Thank you for sharing. It answered a lot f my questions in regards to this procedure. I will like to get a Mommy Makeover soon but I am thoroughly doing my research on what the procedure entails. I really appreciate you sharing your knowledge and perspective.
Thanks for the feedback. I really do try to keep this blog informative, so it’s nice that someone notices 🙂
I have been reading your blog. I would.like to have the tummy tuck and the butt lift nor only I’m afraid but I would like to know what is the price for such procedure .I’m single mother of 2 I have to keep that in mind with the cost. Can you pls let me know if it’s possible for me to do.
Thanks regina
This is really not the format where I can talk about finances – but we do have financing available. I would encourage you to call my office at (212) 249-4020. My staff will be happy to answer all your questions.
I live in Australia bu this website is definitely the best I have seen in clearly explaining the issues & procedures. I am overweight with diastasis, a hernia (previously repaired 9 years ago), type 1 diabetes & a belly button several inches below where it should be. Thanks for the information. Jill
Thanks for saying so! I’m glad it helped you out. You just made my day!
I don’t live anywhere near you so coming in for a consult is not an option. If I am shopping for a good provider and surgeon what are some things I should be cautious about and informed about. I have a diastasis recti and hernia. I want it fixed. Im so tired of telling people Im not due when they ask my due date! 🙁 This is a great blog! Thanks for your time.
Thanks for saying such nice things. I would simply interview some Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in your neighborhood and ask to see their before and after photographs. You might even ask if you can discuss the operation with previous patients. Good Luck!
I live hawaii. I’m considering a tummy tuck and a Lil lipo. How can I get pricing from here?
Why don’t you give my office a call and they will be happy to talk to you about it. There are a few variables such as how long the operation might take which can extend anesthesia time and affect your overall costs. Dial (212) 249-4020 and Alex or Shali would be happy to walk you through that. We would love to meet you!
Please feel free to call the office at (212) 249-4020. We will get you some answers. Thanks!
Thank you so much for all the information. I had huge twin boys and other than the separation and slight abs wrinkles am very fit. However, I know there’s no exercise to repair my abdomen other than this procedure. Can you give me some feedback on the sutures? I was told to not to get the permanent sutures and opt for the kind that dissolve because they are safer. I want o continue working out my abs (after i heal) vogorpusly as usual without worrying about them tearing my muscles. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!!
Good question. There are many types of suture used for the repair and different physicians have different experiences with all of them. I happen to use something called “PDS” suture because it holds its strength for 9 months or so and should be completely dissolved by 18 months. After that, the tissues should have healed enough that they don’t need any added support from a suture.
Good Luck!
I had the gastric Sleeve would my insurance cover some of the expense
That all depends on your insurance company. These days we don’t count on them paying for anything.
im a 51 year old female in 5’4 and 215lbs would i be able to have a tummy tuck if my bmi is over 30
Technically, you are “able” to have a tummy tuck, but the complication rate is significantly higher for you due to your weight. So you may have difficulty finding a surgeon to work with you.
Good Luck!
Such a helpful website, and it’s very appreciated. I live in California, so can’t see you, but would have if I lived there! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and artistry!