Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) for a Flatter, Firmer Abdomen
Conveniently located to serve Houston
MENU:
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.


Cost and Financing
Pricing for a tummy tuck varies depending on the procedure type and if it’s combined with other surgeries. During your consultation, you’ll receive a transparent breakdown of all costs. We also offer financing options to help make your transformation more accessible.
Why Choose Dr. Ikeda for Your Tummy Tuck?
Dr. Ikeda is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon with advanced body contouring and aesthetic gynecology training. His reputation for precision and safe, natural-looking results makes him a trusted choice for Happy Valley and Portland patients.
With years of hands-on surgical experience and a background that blends artistic sensibility with medical expertise, Dr. Ikeda takes a detail-oriented approach to every tummy tuck procedure. He believes successful outcomes come from careful planning, honest communication, and a commitment to long-term patient satisfaction.
Dr. Marcos Ikeda
5.0 rating out of 100 reviews

Oh my God Dr. Marcos is so awesome, I could not pick a better plastic surgeon he actually care about his patient and want u too look your best…


Best cosmetic surgeon in Houston..Love the work that was done on me…I am seeing amazing results, would definitely recommend him…


The staff and doctor are very tentative and helpful. I’m in awe with my results. -thank you Dr Marcos and Maritza …

FAQs About Tummy Tucks
How long is the recovery period?
Most people return to light activity within one to two weeks. Full recovery may take a few months, including scar fading and final contour. Walking and light movement early on help support healing.
Can a tummy tuck get rid of stretch marks?
Yes, if the stretch marks are located on the lower abdomen, they may be removed along with the excess skin.
Is a mini tummy tuck easier to recover from?
In general, yes. The incision is smaller, healing is quicker, and there’s usually less discomfort since the muscle repair is more limited.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
A flatter, firmer midsection is possible with the proper care and guidance. Whether you’re leaning toward a mini or full tummy tuck, Dr. Ikeda is here to answer your questions and map out a plan that works for you.
Schedule a consultation today to explore your options in Happy Valley or Portland.