How long is recovery?

Recovery varies by patient and procedure extent. Many people stand fully upright in about a week, return to desk work in 2–3 weeks, and resume lifting or core workouts around 6 weeks when cleared by the surgeon.

At Clareo, drains are typically not used; quilting sutures are employed to help secure tissues and reduce fluid accumulation.

How long do results last?

Results are long-lasting with stable weight and healthy habits. Natural aging, significant weight changes, or future pregnancy can affect outcomes over time.

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BOSTON PLASTIC SURGERY

Tummy Tuck Boston, MA

Q: Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck?

Ideal candidates are in good health, near goal weight, and have loose abdominal skin or muscle separation that does not improve with diet and exercise. Non-smokers or those willing to stop temporarily are preferred.

Q: What’s the difference between liposuction and a tummy tuck?

Liposuction removes fat but does not tighten skin or repair muscles. A tummy tuck addresses excess skin and repairs lax or separated muscles. Many patients combine both for a smoother, defined waistline.

Q: Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?

Yes. Common combinations include liposuction, breast augmentation or lift (as part of a Mommy Makeover), thighplasty, Brazilian butt lift, or a body lift. Your surgeon will advise on safe, effective combinations.

Clareo Plastic Surgery - Let Your Confidence Shine

Get Your Flat Tummy Back

With Tummy Tuck Surgery

at Boston’s top plastic surgery center that prioritizes results, safety, and patient satisfaction, serving patients across New England.

Clareo Plastic Surgery in Boston helps restore your body’s youthful contours through tummy tuck surgery and customized Mommy Makeover procedures.

What Is A Tummy Tuck?

At Clareo Plastic Surgery, a tummy tuck—or abdominoplasty— is a proven, transformative procedure that creates a firmer, flatter midsection. This outpatient surgery removes excess skin from the abdomen, tightens abdominal muscles, and repositions the belly button to create a smooth, natural-looking contour.

To optimize your results, your surgeon may recommend combining your tummy tuck with liposuction to eliminate stubborn fat in the upper abdomen or waist. Tummy tuck surgery can also be part of a personalized treatment plan that includes procedures like breast augmentation or body contouring in other areas.

The Clareo Plastic Surgery team, led by Dr. Michael Tantillo and Dr. Christopher Lee, will help you achieve the confident, revitalized look you’ve always wanted.

What Can A Tummy Tuck Do For Me?

If your abdominal muscles have separated due to pregnancy (a condition known as diastasis recti), a tummy tuck can repair this, giving your core more strength and tone. The procedure also allows for the removal of stretch marks in the lower abdomen, depending on their location.

A full tummy tuck typically removes most or all skin between the belly button and pubic area and includes an incision around the navel.

A mini tummy tuck involves a smaller incision and focuses only on the lower abdomen, without repositioning the belly button. Muscle repair can be included with either technique.

Am I A Candidate For A Tummy Tuck?

Most candidates have loose or hanging abdominal skin that doesn’t respond to diet or exercise. An ideal patient is:

Within 10 to 15 pounds of their target weight
In overall good health
A non-smoker

Being close to your ideal weight helps ensure long-lasting, satisfying results. It’s also important to approach the procedure with realistic expectations. During your consultation, your Clareo surgeon will review your goals and guide you through what to expect.

Benefits Of A Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is often done to improve your abdominal profile. It can help you achieve a flatter, more toned stomach by:

At Clareo, every tummy tuck is tailored to your unique anatomy and personal goals.

What’s the Difference Between Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck?

Liposuction removes pockets of fat but does not tighten loose skin. If your skin has lost elasticity, liposuction alone may leave behind sagging or folds. A tummy tuck, on the other hand, addresses both skin and muscle laxity, delivering a more comprehensive result.

In many cases, we combine liposuction with a tummy tuck to enhance contours and define your waistline. During your consultation, we’ll determine the most effective treatment plan based on your anatomy and goals.

How long will my results last?

The results of your tummy tuck are considered permanent. However, natural aging, weight fluctuations, and pregnancy can affect outcomes over time.

To maintain your results, we recommend a stable weight supported by regular exercise and healthy eating.

How much does a tummy tuck cost?

Because no two bodies are the same, tummy tuck surgery is highly personalized.

Your surgeon will assess your anatomy, skin condition, and aesthetic goals to develop a customized surgical plan.

Pricing will be discussed during your initial consultation, once the best approach has been identified.

Tummy Tuck Procedure

Tummy tuck surgery at Clareo is performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia. You’ll need someone to drive you home and help care for you for at least the first few days post-surgery.

Your surgeon will choose the best surgical approach for your needs:

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck targets the lower abdomen below the belly button. It involves a smaller incision and removes excess skin and fat from this area. This procedure can be performed with or without tightening the abdominal muscles, depending on your needs. Because the incision is shorter and the surgery less extensive, recovery time tends to be quicker than with a full tummy tuck. However, the mini tummy tuck is ideal only for patients with mild to moderate skin laxity confined to the lower abdomen.

Full (Traditional) Tummy Tuck

The full tummy tuck is the most common type of abdominoplasty. This procedure removes moderate to significant amounts of excess skin and fat from both above and below the belly button. During surgery, your abdominal muscles are tightened to restore core strength and create a flatter contour. The belly button is repositioned through a new incision to maintain a natural look. This approach is suitable for a patient with more extensive skin laxity or muscle separation.

Circumferential Tummy Tuck (Body Lift)

Recommended primarily for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, the circumferential tummy tuck is a more extensive surgery that tightens the entire midsection, including the abdomen, flanks, and lower back. This body lift procedure removes loose skin and fat all around the waistline, improving comfort and mobility while delivering dramatic reshaping. Due to its scope, the recovery is longer, but the results provide a smoother and firmer overall torso appearance.

During any tummy tuck procedure at Clareo, your surgeon will carefully remove excess skin, tighten weakened muscles, and sculpt the abdominal area using liposuction when appropriate. This combination enhances your body’s natural contours and helps achieve a defined waistline. We do not use drains at Clareo, but quilt the skin back into place for better results, faster healing, and a thinner scar. You’ll also be fitted with a compression garment to support your healing tissues and reduce swelling. As our patient, you’ll wear this garment 20 hours a day for the first month and 10 hours a day for the second month.

Other Essential Approaches

Some patients require additional corrective steps during their tummy tuck procedure to achieve optimal results. These can include:

Post-surgery, you’ll be fitted with a compression garment designed to manage swelling, support healing tissues, and help your new contour settle beautifully.

Patients need to wear this garment 20/7 for at least the first month. Remember: proper use of compression garments is a critical part of the recovery process and helps ensure the best possible results. We also recommend lymphatic drainage massage for continual swelling management.

Combine A Tummy Tuck With Other Procedures

Combining a tummy tuck with other procedures that target different areas of your body, which might not be addressed by abdominoplasty alone, can often achieve better, more balanced results.

Here are some common combinations:

Liposuction and Tummy Tuck

Liposuction removes stubborn fat pockets that don’t respond to diet or exercise, complementing the tummy tuck’s skin tightening to give you a smoother, more sculpted midsection. This combination is ideal if you want to target both fat volume and skin laxity at once. Many of our tummy tuck patients also receive liposuction to enhance their final contour.

Tummy Tuck and Body Lift

Ideal if you’ve lost a significant amount of weight, this combination addresses excess skin and fat around the abdomen, flanks, and back for a more comprehensive body contouring effect. A body lift can also help reduce physical discomfort from loose skin, such as chafing or skin irritation. For many patients, this combination supports long-term weight maintenance and improved mobility. This will also lift the buttocks and lateral thighs to improve skin quality and appearance.

Tummy Tuck and Breast Surgery (aka Mommy Makeover)

Pairing a tummy tuck with breast surgery — whether a lift to remove sagging or augmentation for added volume — helps create a more proportionate, harmonious silhouette. This is a popular choice for patients seeking a full upper and lower body transformation. Your Clareo surgeon will help you determine whether a breast lift, augmentation, or both best match your goals.

Thighplasty and Tummy Tuck

This combination targets excess skin on both the thighs and abdomen, improving the overall contour of your lower body. Thighplasty is especially helpful if skin laxity in the inner or outer thighs affects comfort, clothing fit, or confidence. Together, these procedures offer a more athletic and defined lower-body appearance.

Brazilian Butt Lift and Tummy Tuck

If you want a firmer, fuller butt alongside a flatter stomach, combining these procedures can enhance curves and improve waistline definition. A Brazilian butt lift uses fat from liposuction — often done during the tummy tuck — to naturally augment your backside. It’s a smart option for patients seeking proportional, hourglass-like results.

Mommy Makeover

A mommy makeover is a custom combination of procedures designed to restore your pre-pregnancy body. This approach often includes a tummy tuck, breast surgery, and liposuction. It allows a patient to address multiple areas in one surgery and one recovery period.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Recovery looks a little different for everyone, depending on your overall health and whether you had additional procedures like liposuction or breast surgery. Some patients are up and walking the same day, while others take a few days to feel steady. Either way, light movement is encouraged early on to reduce swelling and lower the risk of complications.

Most people follow a recovery timeline that looks something like this: about one week to stand fully upright, two to three weeks before returning to desk work, and around six weeks before resuming lifting or core workouts. Plan ahead with support at home—especially if you have young children—and set up a recovery space stocked with essentials like loose clothing, pillows, medication, and plenty of water. Compression garments and follow-up visits help ensure your healing stays on track.

Tummy Tuck Results

You’ll see a visible change almost immediately. Swelling is expected and can take up to three months to fully resolve, but the absence of loose skin and a more defined waistline are noticeable early on, and often incredibly motivating.

Once healing is complete, most patients enjoy a flatter abdomen, firmer muscle tone, and an improved silhouette that looks natural in and out of clothing. A healthy lifestyle is key to maintaining your results, and non-surgical treatments like Morpheus8 may help with long-term quality and laxity if desired.

Talk to Clareo Plastic Surgery’s Experts About Your Tummy Tuck

At Clareo Plastic Surgery, your safety, comfort, and satisfaction come first. Serving the Greater Boston area from our Chestnut Hill location, we’re led by board-certified surgeons Dr. Michael Tantillo and Dr. Christopher Lee, both known for their precision, experience, and personalized approach to care.

Whether you’re ready to schedule surgery or just starting to explore your options, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. Request a consultation today and discover how tummy tuck surgery at Clareo can help you feel confident in your body again.

Tummy Tuck FAQs

Does My BMI Affect Whether I’m a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?

Yes. Board-certified plastic surgeons recognize that patients with a higher BMI face increased risks, including blood clots and wound healing issues, during and after surgery. While surgeon recommendations may vary slightly, Dr. Tantillo does not offer tummy tuck procedures to individuals with a BMI over 33. Patient safety is always the top priority. That said, we encourage open conversations—if you’re actively working toward a lower BMI, we can help you plan your timeline. A pre-op consultation ensures you’re pursuing surgery at the safest and most effective point in your journey. We commonly use GLP-1 medications to help patients achieve a safe BMI and their goal weight.

What Will My Tummy Tuck Scars Look Like?

Scars are a natural part of any surgical procedure, including abdominoplasty. The main scar runs low across the abdomen and is easily concealed beneath most clothing and swimwear. Its length depends on how much excess skin is removed. A full tummy tuck also involves a scar around the belly button, while a mini tuck typically does not. Scar placement is discussed in detail during your consultation to ensure you know exactly what to expect.

Can a Tummy Tuck Get Rid of My C-Section Scar?

Yes. Many patients with C-section scars see significant improvement—or complete removal—following abdominoplasty. The procedure also addresses other post-pregnancy concerns, such as muscle laxity, by restoring the abdominal wall. In some cases, the new tummy tuck scar replaces the C-section scar entirely. It’s one of the many ways tummy tuck surgery helps restore both form and confidence.

Will a Tummy Tuck Affect My Abdominal Tattoo?

It might. If the tattoo is located on excess skin that will be removed, it may be altered or removed entirely. During your consultation, we’ll review your tattoo placement and plan the surgery accordingly. If preserving the tattoo is important to you, let us know in advance—our team can adjust the surgical approach when appropriate. Every case is different, and we’ll help you make an informed decision.

How Long Does Tummy Tuck Surgery Take?

Most tummy tuck procedures take 3 to 4 hours, though this depends on whether additional procedures are performed at the same time. Your surgeon will walk you through your personalized surgical plan and expected timeframe at your initial consultation. The duration may also vary based on factors like the extent of muscle repair or liposuction. We take the time needed to ensure a safe, high-quality result.

Should I Wait Until My Kids Are Older Before Getting a Tummy Tuck?

Not necessarily. We frequently see patients with young children. The key is preparation. You’ll need to avoid lifting anything over 5 pounds for approximately six weeks, so arranging reliable support at home is essential. Many parents find that with proper planning, recovery can go smoothly even with little ones at home.

Can a Tummy Tuck Help Me Get My Pre-Baby Body Back?

Yes, it can. A tummy tuck repairs muscle separation and removes stretched skin—two common changes caused by pregnancy. Many patients feel their bodies look even better after surgery than they did before they had children. While the surgery can’t reverse all signs of pregnancy, it can dramatically restore contour and firmness. For comprehensive results, some patients also consider a Mommy Makeover.

Will I Lose Weight From a Tummy Tuck?

No. A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure. While some tissue is removed, the change in body weight is minimal. This surgery is best viewed as a contouring option, rather than a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Patients often feel lighter and more confident, but the scale usually doesn’t reflect a significant drop.

Does a Tummy Tuck Remove Stretch Marks?

Only the stretch marks located on the skin that is removed during surgery will be eliminated. Typically, this includes the lower abdomen. Stretch marks outside this area will still be present. If you’re concerned about residual marks, we can discuss skincare options and resurfacing treatments during your consultation.

Is There Anything I Can Use to Help My Scar Heal and Fade?

Yes. We recommend a variety of options that include silicone-based treatments, pressure application, and antioxidants. Our surgeons typically suggest Silagen and regular scar massage to support the healing process and help fade the appearance of scars. We also give each patient guidance on when and how to begin treatment for the best results. Scar care is a key part of your post-op journey.

Hypobaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) can play a significant role in accelerating recovery and enhancing healing. By delivering pure oxygen under pressure, HBOT helps the body heal faster, reduce swelling and minimize scarring.

Will My Scar From a Tummy Tuck Ever Completely Fade?

No scar ever disappears completely. However, our surgeons use precise closure techniques to make scarring as discreet as possible. Over time—and with proper care—most scars fade significantly. Genetics also play a role in how your body heals and how noticeable your scar is. We’ll equip each patient with tools and techniques to help their scar become as inconspicuous as possible.

Can I Combine a Tummy Tuck With Other Procedures?

Yes. A tummy tuck is often combined with liposuction or aesthetic procedures such as breast surgery, thigh or arm lift, or circumferential body contouring. We take a safety-first approach and can also plan staged procedures if needed. Combining procedures can enhance overall results and reduce total recovery time. Your surgeon will help you weigh the options based on your goals and health status.

Will I Need Drains After a Tummy Tuck?

Yes, in most cases. Drains are placed after surgery to support proper healing and reduce fluid buildup. These drains are temporary but play an important role in a smooth recovery. Most are removed within a week or two, depending on your body’s healing process. We’ll provide instructions on how to care for them at home.

How Should I Sleep After My Tummy Tuck?

For the first two to three weeks, you’ll need to sleep on your back in a reclined or slightly elevated position. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides. Supportive pillows under your knees and upper back can help you find a comfortable, safe sleeping posture. Many patients find a recliner helpful during the early recovery phase.

Is a Tummy Tuck Covered by Insurance?

No. Because abdominoplasty is considered cosmetic, it is not covered by medical insurance. However, Clareo does offer convenient payment and financing options to support your treatment goals. We’re happy to walk you through the process and help you explore monthly payment plans. Our goal is to make quality care accessible in the Greater Boston area and beyond.

Now’s the perfect time to look and feel your best.

Serving the Greater Boston Area with Two Locations in Fenway and Chestnut Hill. Request a consultation at our Chestnut Hill Location Today.

At Clareo Plastic Surgery, our cosmetic specialists are ready to help you achieve your goals with the most advanced treatments the cosmetic industry has to offer. Contact us today to take your first step toward a more beautiful you.

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