Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) for a Flatter, Firmer Abdomen

Tummy tuck surgery helps sculpt a flatter abdomen and improve confidence. Also known as abdominoplasty, this body contouring surgery removes excess skin and fat while tightening weakened abdominal muscles. Dr. Ikeda performs full and mini tummy tucks for patients in Houston, TX.

What Is a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

Tummy tuck surgery addresses stretched or sagging abdominal tissue. Many patients consider this option after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging have altered their abdominal appearance.

During the abdominoplasty procedure, loose skin is removed, underlying muscles are tightened, and fat is reduced for a firmer, flatter contour. A full tummy tuck typically includes muscle repair from the breastbone to the pubic area. A mini tummy tuck focuses only on the area below the belly button, which can be ideal for those with less skin laxity.

Am I a Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?

A tummy tuck might be worth considering if you have loose skin or weakened abdominal muscles that haven’t improved with diet and exercise. Many people look into this option after major weight loss, pregnancy, or simply as a response to how their bodies have changed with time.

You’re likely a good candidate if you:

• Are close to your target weight
• Don’t plan to become pregnant again
• Don’t smoke or are willing to quit during recovery
• Are in overall good health
• Feel self-conscious about sagging skin or a belly bulge

During your visit, Dr. Ikeda will assess your health and goals to help determine if a full or mini tummy tuck is the best choice for your body.

Full Tummy Tuck vs. Mini Tummy Tuck

Dr. Ikeda offers two main options based on your anatomy and goals:

• Full Tummy Tuck: Best for those with significant excess skin, fat, and muscle laxity above and below the navel.
• Mini Tummy Tuck: Targets the lower abdomen only and is ideal for patients with a small belly pooch or mild skin looseness.

Each procedure has a different recovery timeline and surgical approach. During your consultation, Dr. Ikeda will help you determine which tummy tuck surgery best suits you.

What Happens During the Procedure

Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes between two to four hours. Dr. Ikeda begins by making a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen. The location is planned so it stays hidden under most clothing.

Next, the skin is lifted, excess fat is removed, and the abdominal muscles are returned and secured. If needed, the belly button is repositioned. The skin is then redraped and tightened, and the incision is closed with sutures. For a mini tummy tuck, the process is shorter, the incision is smaller, and the belly button usually remains untouched.

In some cases, drains may be placed to reduce fluid buildup. Dr. Ikeda will explain whether your procedure will require them and how they’ll be managed.

What to Expect During Recovery

Right after surgery, you’ll wear a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support healing. Most patients experience soreness, tightness, and swelling for the first few days, but these symptoms can be managed with medication and rest.

Recovery timelines vary, but many people can return to light activities within one to two weeks. Heavy lifting and intense physical activity should be avoided for at least four to six weeks. Dr. Ikeda will provide detailed recovery instructions and schedule follow-up visits to monitor your progress.

The final results become more visible as swelling subsides, typically within a few months. With proper care, scars will continue to fade over time.

Benefits of Abdominoplasty Surgery

A tummy tuck procedure can improve posture, help with core stability, and even ease discomfort from muscle separation (diastasis recti). Other potential benefits include:

• More defined waistline
• Smoother lower abdomen
• Removal of stretch marks in the excised skin
• Long-lasting results with proper care

Abdominoplasty surgery may be combined with other body sculpting procedures to achieve a more refined contour. Consider targeted liposuction treatments, liposculpture, or a customized mommy makeover for more dramatic results.