Tummy Tuck in Delafield
A midsection that matches the work you've put in.
A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying abdominal wall muscles to create a smoother, firmer abdominal profile. The procedure addresses changes caused by pregnancy, significant weight loss, aging, and hereditary factors. Abdominoplasty is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States, with over 170,000 procedures performed annually according to ASPS data.
At a Glance
- Approximately 171,000 abdominoplasty procedures were performed in the United States in 2024, making it one of the top cosmetic surgical procedures[4]
- Abdominoplasty can include repair of diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles), and systematic reviews report high patient satisfaction following surgical correction[8]
- Seromas and hematomas are the most common complications, occurring in up to one-third of cases according to clinical literature[7]
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 1 to 5 hours depending on complexity and whether additional procedures are combined[6]
Before & after
Real faces, real results.
Before & after
Abdominoplasty
Before & after
Abdominoplasty
Before & after
Abdominoplasty
Individual results vary. Photos shown with patient consent.
Overview
A tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the middle and lower abdomen while tightening the abdominal wall muscles (rectus abdominis). The procedure is designed for individuals who have loose or sagging abdominal skin that does not respond to diet and exercise. Common reasons patients pursue abdominoplasty include post-pregnancy body changes, significant weight loss, aging, and genetic factors that affect the abdominal contour.
Several variations of abdominoplasty exist, each suited to different degrees of tissue laxity. A mini (partial) abdominoplasty addresses only the area below the navel with a shorter incision and typically does not require repositioning the belly button. A full abdominoplasty involves a longer incision, muscle repair from the lower to the upper abdomen, and repositioning of the navel. Extended and circumferential abdominoplasty techniques address the entire abdominal region including the flanks and hips, and are often performed following massive weight loss.
Abdominoplasty is not a substitute for weight loss or an exercise program. Results can be affected by significant weight fluctuations after surgery. Individuals who are planning substantial weight loss or women considering future pregnancies may be advised to postpone the procedure, as pregnancy can separate the repaired muscles and stretch the tightened skin.
What to expect
- Consultation to discuss goals, review medical history, assess abdominal tissue, and determine the appropriate abdominoplasty technique
- Pre-operative evaluation including laboratory work, medical clearance, and cessation of smoking if applicable
- Administration of general anesthesia
- Horizontal incision along the lower abdomen, positioned within the bikini line
- Elevation of the abdominal skin flap from the underlying muscle fascia
- Repair of diastasis recti by plicating the rectus abdominis muscles along the midline
- Removal of excess skin and fat from the abdominal flap
- Repositioning of the navel through the tightened skin (full abdominoplasty)
- Layered closure of the incision with sutures
- Placement of surgical drains if indicated to reduce fluid accumulation
- Application of dressings and a compression garment
- Post-operative monitoring and discharge with detailed recovery instructions
How a tummy tuck works
- A horizontal incision is made between the pubic hairline and the navel, with the length and shape depending on the amount of excess skin. The incision is typically positioned along the bikini line so that it can be concealed by most undergarments.
- The abdominal skin is lifted from the underlying fascia, and the weakened or separated rectus abdominis muscles are brought together and sutured (plication) using long-lasting absorbable or permanent sutures. This muscle repair tightens the abdominal wall and narrows the waistline.
- Excess skin and fat are trimmed away, and the remaining upper abdominal skin is pulled downward and secured. In a full abdominoplasty, a new opening is created for the navel (omphaloplasty), which is brought through the repositioned skin.
- The incision is closed in multiple layers with sutures, and surgical drains may be placed beneath the skin to help prevent fluid accumulation. A compression garment or elastic bandage is applied to support the abdomen and minimize swelling.
When it's recommended
- Excess abdominal skin and fat that does not respond to diet and exercise
- Abdominal muscle separation (diastasis recti), commonly occurring after pregnancy
- Skin laxity following significant weight loss or bariatric surgery
- Weakened or stretched abdominal wall due to aging or hereditary factors
- Abdominal contour irregularities caused by prior abdominal surgery
- Overhanging abdominal skin (pannus) that may cause discomfort or skin irritation
Is a tummy tuck right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Concerns it addresses
Recovery & aftercare
- Initial recovery typically requires 2 to 4 weeks of limited activity
- A semi-reclined (semi-Fowler) position is recommended for approximately 2 weeks to minimize tension on the incision
- A compression garment is worn for several weeks to reduce swelling and support the abdomen
- Surgical drains, if placed, are typically removed within 1 to 2 weeks
- Most patients can return to desk work within 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the extent of surgery
- Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are generally restricted for 4 to 6 weeks
- Bruising, swelling, and numbness are common during the first several weeks and gradually improve
- Final results may take 3 to 6 months to become fully apparent as swelling resolves
- Scar maturation continues for 12 to 18 months, with sun protection recommended during this period
Alternatives
- Liposuction alone (for patients with good skin elasticity and minimal skin laxity)
- Panniculectomy (removal of the overhanging skin apron without muscle repair, sometimes for medical rather than cosmetic indications)
- Non-surgical body contouring procedures (limited efficacy for significant skin laxity)
- Combined procedures such as a lower body lift for patients with circumferential excess tissue
Related treatments
How much does a tummy tuck cost?
A tummy tuck at Consona with Dr. Boehm costs around $14,000. Additional body sculpting procedures, including Lipo360, may incur additional costs. The exact amount depends on your unique goals and treatment needs. Schedule a consultation today to learn more and receive a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscles to create a firmer, flatter abdominal profile. It is commonly performed after significant weight loss or pregnancy.
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during surgery. Post-operative discomfort is expected and is typically managed with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report significant improvement in comfort within the first 1 to 2 weeks.
- Abdominoplasty is a well-established surgical procedure with a long safety record when performed by a board-certified surgeon. As with any surgery, there are risks that are discussed in detail during the consultation.
- Most patients can return to desk work within 2 to 3 weeks. Strenuous activity is typically restricted for 4 to 6 weeks. Final results may take 3 to 6 months to become fully apparent as swelling resolves, and scar maturation continues for 12 to 18 months.
- Individuals who currently smoke, are planning future pregnancies, have unstable body weight, or have significant uncontrolled medical conditions may not be suitable candidates. A thorough evaluation during consultation helps determine whether the procedure is appropriate.
- A mini tummy tuck uses a shorter incision and addresses only the lower abdomen below the navel, without repositioning the belly button. A full tummy tuck involves a longer incision, addresses both the upper and lower abdomen, includes muscle repair, and repositions the navel. The choice depends on the degree of skin laxity and muscle separation.
Tummy Tuck risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Current tobacco use (smoking significantly compromises blood supply to the surgical flap and increases the risk of tissue necrosis)
- Active plans for future pregnancy (pregnancy can reverse the results of muscle repair and skin tightening)
- Unstable body weight or plans for significant further weight loss
- Advanced cardiopulmonary disease or uncontrolled chronic conditions such as diabetes
- Active infection at the surgical site
- Conditions that significantly impair wound healing
- Body mass index that substantially increases surgical risk (evaluated individually by the surgeon)
Possible risks
- Seroma (fluid accumulation beneath the skin), the most common complication
- Hematoma (collection of blood beneath the flap) that may require drainage
- Wound infection, which can delay healing and affect cosmetic outcome
- Poor wound healing or wound dehiscence (separation of the incision edges)
- Skin or flap necrosis from compromised blood supply, more common in smokers
- Scarring, including the possibility of hypertrophic or widened scars
- Changes in abdominal skin sensation or numbness, which may be temporary or prolonged
- Asymmetric appearance or contour irregularities
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism, a risk associated with any surgical procedure
- Need for revision surgery to address cosmetic concerns or complications
- Umbilical necrosis due to compromised blood supply to the navel stalk
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 8 sources, including peer-reviewed research, leading medical institutions.
Government & research
Medical institutions
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-06-13