All About

Tummy Tucks

A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the underlying muscles. It is commonly performed to restore a flatter, firmer, and more toned midsection, especially after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. A tummy tuck can help improve the appearance of loose skin, stretch marks, and abdominal separation (diastasis recti), giving you a smoother and more confident silhouette.

What is a Tummy Tuck?

Also known as an Abdominoplasty

Actual Verve Patients

Why get a Tummy Tuck?

  • A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat while tightening weakened abdominal muscles, creating a smoother, firmer midsection.

  • Restoring a slimmer, more youthful shape can help you feel more confident in your appearance and clothing.

  • By repairing separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), a tummy tuck can enhance posture and may help reduce back discomfort.

  • The procedure can remove areas of stretch marks and excess skin, reducing skin irritation and allowing for greater comfort in daily life and exercise.

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The Procedure

Here’s what you can expect during your tummy tuck procedure.

    • You will be placed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure.

    • Before surgery, Dr. Gupta will draw precise markings on your abdomen to outline areas of excess skin, fat, and muscle repair.

    • This is an outpatient procedure, and most patients go home the same day.

    • A low horizontal incision is made just above the pubic area, carefully positioned to be hidden by underwear or swimwear. In some cases, a small incision is also made around the belly button to allow for reshaping.

    • If abdominal muscles have separated (a condition known as diastasis recti), Dr. Gupta will tighten and suture the muscles back together, restoring core strength and a flatter abdominal wall.

  • Excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen are removed. The remaining skin is re-draped and tightened, creating a smoother, more toned appearance.

    • The belly button is repositioned through a small new opening to match your new abdominal contour.

    • All incisions are closed in multiple internal layers for strength and optimal healing. Waterproof dressings are applied, and you'll wake up in a compression garment.

    • You’ll be monitored in recovery, then discharged home with detailed post-op care instructions.

    • A drain may be placed to prevent fluid buildup and is usually removed within the first week.

    • You’ll wear a compression garment for 6 weeks, avoid heavy lifting, and attend follow-ups to monitor healing and results.

    • Most patients return to light activity within 1–2 weeks.

Procedure Video

Types of Tummy Tucks

There are several types of tummy tucks, each designed to address different needs and body types. In this section, we’ll explain the main types of tummy tucks offered here at Verve Plastic Surgery, including the Standard Tummy Tuck, Mini Tummy Tuck, 360 Tummy Tuck, and Fleur De Lis Tummy Tuck. Dr. Gupta will help determine the best approach for your body, goals, and desired outcome.

Standard Tummy Tuck

  • A standard tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and tightens separated abdominal muscles to create a flatter, firmer stomach.

  • Ideal candidates have loose skin, weakened muscles, or stubborn fat in the mid to lower abdomen, often due to pregnancy, aging, or weight loss.

  • Yes, you will have a low horizontal scar across the lower abdomen, typically placed below the underwear or bikini line. Over time, it generally fades and softens.

Mini Tummy Tuck

  • A mini tummy tuck removes a small amount of excess skin and fat below the belly button without addressing the upper abdomen or tightening abdominal muscles.

  • Best for individuals with mild to moderate skin laxity or a stubborn lower belly “pooch” who don’t need full muscle repair.

  • Yes, the scar is typically shorter than that of a full tummy tuck and is positioned low on the abdomen for easy concealment.

Extended Tummy Tuck

  • An Extended Tummy Tuck removes excess skin and fat not only from the abdomen but also from the flanks and lower back, while also tightening the abdominal muscles for a smoother, more contoured waistline.

  • This procedure is ideal for individuals who have loose skin and stubborn fat across the abdomen and love handles, often after significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies.

  • Yes, the scar from an extended tummy tuck is longer than a standard tummy tuck, stretching across the lower abdomen and slightly around the hips, but it is typically low enough to be concealed by underwear or swimwear.

Fleur De Lis Tummy Tuck

  • A Fleur de Lis tummy tuck removes excess skin both vertically and horizontally, offering dramatic reshaping of the abdomen.

  • Ideal for patients who have extensive skin laxity following massive weight loss and need correction in both vertical and horizontal dimensions.

  • Yes, this technique results in both a horizontal scar low on the abdomen and a vertical scar along the midline. These scars typically fade over time.

360 Tummy Tuck

  • A 360 Tummy Tuck removes excess skin and fat circumferentially around the abdomen, waist, and lower back for comprehensive body contouring.

  • Ideal for patients who have lost significant weight and are left with loose skin around the entire midsection.

  • Yes, the scar typically extends all the way around the body, but it is placed low enough to be hidden by underwear or swimwear.

 FAQs

  • Ideal candidates are individuals who have loose skin, stretched muscles, or stubborn fat in the abdominal area—often due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging—and are in good overall health.

  • Yes, a tummy tuck does leave a scar, usually placed low on the abdomen, just above the pubic area, so it can be easily hidden by underwear or swimwear. Over time, the scar typically fades and flattens but will not disappear completely.

  • A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure—it is designed to sculpt and tighten the abdominal area once you are close to your goal weight.

  • Yes, many patients choose to combine a tummy tuck with liposuction, breast surgery, or other body contouring procedures for a more complete transformation.

    Consider looking into a Mommy Makeover!

  • Diastasis is the separation of the abdominal muscles (the rectus muscles) that run straight down the abdomen to create the abdominal wall. These muscles often separate during pregnancy, which weakens your abdominal muscles, creates a bulge in the middle of the abdomen, and can even lead to an umbilical hernia. During your tummy tuck, Dr. Gupta will repair and tighten these muscles to restore core strength and achieve a tighter, flatter tummy.


  • This is determined by Dr. Gupta on an as needed basis, if used, drains are needed for proper safe recovery. However, Dr. Gupta’s tummy tucks do not require drains to remove excess fluids during healing. He uses an advanced suturing technique called Progressive Tension Sutures, that eliminates the need for drains. This advanced technique successfully secures the closure, reduces the risk of complications, and reduces scar thickness. Because of this, recovery is faster and easier, patients heal better, and they can shower the day after surgery.

  • Most patients need about 2 weeks off work and should avoid strenuous activity for 6 to 8 weeks. Swelling, tightness, and discomfort are normal parts of the healing process.

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Book a consultation for a Tummy Tuck!

info@verveplasticsurgery.com
(760) 436-7600

700 Garden View Court STE 208
Encinitas, CA 92024