Understand What a Tummy Tuck Really Does
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is more than a simple “skin tighten-up.” Surgeons remove excess skin and fat and suture separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) back together. The result is a flatter waistline, stronger core support, and dramatic improvement in posture for many patients.
Candidacy Checklist
- Stable Weight: Ideally within 15–20 lbs of goal weight for at least six months
- Finished Family-Building: Future pregnancies can re-stretch the repaired muscles
- Non-Smoker: Smoking severely hinders healing and increases complication rates
- Realistic Downtime Expectations: You’ll need two weeks off desk work and six for workouts
Scars, Drains & Downtime—The Realities
- Incision Placement: Typically low enough to hide beneath underwear or swimwear
- Surgical Drains: Most Bellevue surgeons use two small drains for 7–10 days to prevent fluid accumulation
- Recovery Curve: Expect to walk slightly bent for the first week, stand upright by week two, and regain full stamina at the six-week mark
Potential Add-Ons
Many patients combine abdominoplasty with flank liposuction or breast enhancement (“mommy makeover”) to avoid multiple anesthesia events and save on overall cost.
Bellevue-Specific Tip
Because rainy weather can limit outdoor cardio during recovery, arrange short, frequent indoor walks to keep circulation high without stressing fresh sutures.
