6400 Dutchmans Parkway, Suite 205, Louisville, KY 40205
Tummy tuck procedure

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)

A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that tightens abdominal muscles and removes excess skin for a flatter, firmer midsection.

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance of the abdomen by removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal area.

This procedure is often chosen by patients who have loose skin, stretched abdominal muscles, or stubborn changes after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. While diet and exercise can improve strength and reduce fat, they cannot always correct stretched skin or separated abdominal muscles.

During a tummy tuck, excess skin is removed and the abdominal contour is reshaped for a flatter, firmer midsection. In some cases, liposuction may be included to further refine the waist and abdomen. The procedure is customized based on the patient’s anatomy, skin laxity, and desired result.

Tummy tuck procedure

What a Tummy Tuck Can Improve

A tummy tuck can create a flatter, firmer looking midsection by addressing loose skin and reshaping the abdominal contour. It can improve how clothing fits and help restore confidence in your silhouette.

Surgery is performed under anesthesia. Incisions are placed to allow removal of excess tissue and refinement of the abdominal contour, and in some cases an additional incision may be used around the belly button depending on the plan.

What to Expect During Recovery

After reshaping, incisions are closed and dressings are applied. Drain tubes may be used temporarily and are removed at a follow up visit.

Recovery commonly involves two to four weeks of reduced activity, with lifting restrictions and limited strenuous exercise for several weeks. You will receive a detailed post operative plan, including wound care guidance and often compression support.

Recovery, Results, and Ideal Candidates

Most tummy tucks are outpatient procedures. You will receive instructions for wound care, medications, walking, and how to protect your incisions as you heal.

Expect a period of reduced activity, especially for lifting and core strain. Swelling improves gradually, and final contour continues to refine as tissues settle.

Maintaining a stable weight supports long term results. If weight changes significantly later, results can be affected.

Ideal candidates are healthy nonsmokers who are close to a goal weight and have loose abdominal skin or contour concerns that have not improved with other methods. A consultation can confirm the right approach and whether combining procedures would better match your goals.

Dr. F. Ryan Wermeling, PLLC
6400 Dutchmans Parkway, Suite 205
Louisville, KY 40205
Monday:
8:30am – 4:30pm
Tuesday:
7:30am – 5:30pm
Wednesday:
8:30am – 5:30pm
Thursday:
8:30am – 4:00pm
Friday:
8:30am – 12:00pm
American Society of Plastic Surgeons
The Aesthetic Society