Tummy Tuck in NYC
Dr. Michelle Zweifler is a board-certified plastic surgeon with an office on Park Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, welcoming patients from across New York City.
Overview
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) removes excess, stretched skin from the abdomen and tightens the underlying abdominal wall muscles — addressing changes that diet and exercise alone often can’t fix after pregnancy or significant weight loss. It’s frequently paired with liposuction for additional contouring, or with breast surgery as part of a mommy makeover.
Am I a Candidate?
Good candidates are patients bothered by loose abdominal skin, muscle separation (diastasis recti), or a protruding lower abdomen, who are at a stable weight and, if planning future pregnancies, generally advised to wait until childbearing is complete.
The Procedure
An incision is typically placed low, within or just above the pubic area, with a second incision around the navel. Excess skin is removed, the abdominal wall muscles are tightened with internal sutures, and the navel is repositioned through a new opening so its placement looks natural. Liposuction or hernia repair can be performed at the same time. This is done under general anesthesia as an outpatient or short-stay procedure.
Recovery & Results
Expect two weeks off work, walking in a slightly bent position for the first several days as the tightened muscles adjust, with a compression garment worn for several weeks. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically restricted for six weeks, with full recovery continuing over several months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a tummy tuck and liposuction?
Liposuction removes fat but doesn’t address loose skin or separated muscle; a tummy tuck does both of those, and is often the better option after pregnancy or major weight loss.
Will I have a visible scar?
Yes — the incision is permanent, though it’s placed low enough to be hidden by most underwear and swimwear, and it tends to fade significantly over the first year.
Can a tummy tuck repair muscle separation (diastasis recti)?
Yes. Tightening the abdominal wall muscles with internal sutures is part of the procedure, along with removing excess skin.
Can a tummy tuck be combined with other procedures?
Yes. A tummy tuck is frequently combined with liposuction for added contouring, with hernia repair, or with breast surgery as part of a mommy makeover.
When is the best time to have a tummy tuck?
Generally when your weight is stable and, if you are planning future pregnancies, after childbearing is complete. Dr. Zweifler will advise on timing at your consultation.
