Whether caused by pregnancy, significant weight loss, or aging, loose abdominal skin and stretched muscles can be difficult, if not impossible, to correct with exercise alone. At Zeal Plastic Surgery Clinic, our tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) procedure removes excess skin and fat, tightens abdominal muscles, and restores your core silhouette so you can feel confident in your body again.
While a tummy tuck is often pursued for aesthetic goals, in many women especially postpartum patients, it addresses functional impairments caused by significant muscle separation (diastasis recti). When the separation exceeds 2.5 to 3 centimeters, it can affect core strength, spinal support, daily movement and reduce pelvic pressure and potential urinary incontinence linked to abdominal wall dysfunction
Types of Tummy Tuck
Mini Tummy Tuck
Ideal for patients with mild skin laxity and muscle separation limited to the lower abdomen, below the belly button. It requires a smaller incision and no repositioning of the navel, resulting in a quicker recovery and subtler improvement.
Full Tummy Tuck
This traditional approach addresses the entire abdominal wall, both above and below the belly button. It involves removal of excess skin, tightening of the abdominal muscles, and repositioning of the navel for a fully rejuvenated core.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Designed for individuals with significant excess skin and fat that extends to the flanks or lower back, often after major weight loss. This approach combines the benefits of a full tummy tuck with extended lateral contouring for a more sculpted waistline and back.
What concerns it addresses:
Loose or sagging abdominal skin
Stretched or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
Post-pregnancy body changes
Stubborn fat around the midsection
Excess skin after massive weight loss
Stretch marks (especially below the navel)
You may be a good candidate if you:
Have excess skin and weakened muscles in the abdomen
Are at or near your ideal body weight
Have completed your family and are not planning further pregnancies
Are in good overall health with no uncontrolled medical conditions
Have realistic expectations and a positive outlook
Why Choose Zeal Clinic for Abdominoplasty?
Led by expert surgeon Dr. Joe Baroud, Zeal Plastic Surgery Clinic provides:
Tailored surgical planning to match your body type and goals
Tension-free closure techniques to minimize scarring
Optional liposuction integration for enhanced contouring
Access to scar treatments, skin boosters, and laser therapy to improve healing and final results
Procedure Overview
Anesthesia: General
Duration: 2 to 4 hours
Hospital Stay: Usually same-day or 1 night stay
Downtime: 2 to 4 weeks
Final Results: Begin to show after swelling subsides in 6-8 weeks; full results in 3-6 months
01
Recovery & Aftercare
Mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and tightness in the first 2 weeks
Wear a compression garment for 4-6 weeks
Light walking is encouraged early; avoid lifting for 4-6 weeks
Drainage tubes may be placed and removed within several days
Follow-up visits to monitor healing and results
Scar care protocol with optional CO₂ laser or PRP for optimal fading
02
Results & Longevity
A firmer, flatter abdomen and refined waistline
Restored muscle tone and posture improvement
Long-lasting results with stable weight and healthy lifestyle
Scars are carefully placed and fade over time with proper care
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A mini tuck only addresses loose skin below the belly button, while a full tummy tuck treats the entire abdominal wall and often includes muscle tightening.
Yes, but it is placed low along the bikini line, and our closure techniques minimize scarring. We also offer treatments to reduce scar appearance over time.
Absolutely. Liposuction is often added to enhance contouring around the flanks, waist, or upper abdomen, creating a smoother overall result.