Tummy Tuck New York City, NY

Create a Flatter, Firmer Abdomen

Introduction to Tummy Tuck Surgery

An abdominoplasty, commonly known as a “tummy tuck,” is a surgical procedure with two components: removing excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen and repairing and tightening the abdominal wall muscles. As a result, Dr. Antell’stummy tuck in Manhattan, New York can smooth a protruding abdomen, reduce love handles, and create a more sculpted, youthful body contour.

Woman in black sports bra relaxing on couch in modern interior with natural lighting - tummy tuck in New York, NY

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical process that seeks to remove the excess skin, tissue, and fat of the abdomen that can result from pregnancy, age, and weight gain or loss. By restoring the underlying abdominal muscles and removing excess skin, Dr. Antell’s tummy tuck in New York City can help to restore the youthful appearance of a firm, taut, and smooth abdomen.

Mini vs Full Tummy Tuck

There are two types of abdominoplasties, which differ based on the amount of loose skin that needs to be removed.

A Full Tummy Tuck is appropriate for those with excess skin throughout the abdomen, including above the belly button, and who seek to tighten the abdomen from the breasts downward.

A Mini Tummy Tuck is appropriate for those with only excess skin below the belly button and may result in shorter incisions.

Combining a Tummy Tuck With Other Procedures

To promote a more sculpted, youthful physique, Dr. Antell can combine your tummy tuck with other cosmetic options, including the following:

Liposuction is a popular, effective way to eliminate unwanted bumps and bulges that don’t respond to dieting or exercise. It streamlines the figure and comes with well-hidden scarring.

Who Are the Best Candidates for a Tummy Tuck?

Anyone in good health who is bothered by the appearance of their abdomen is likely a good candidate for a tummy tuck in New York City with Dr. Antell. An ideal candidate is someone who:

  • Is maintaining a relatively stable and healthy weight
  • Has excess fat, skin, or tissue around the abdomen
  • Has diastasis recti (partial or complete separation of the midline abdominal muscles), which is commonly caused by multiple pregnancies
  • Has poor skin elasticity resulting in the skin being unable to contour to the body’s form
  • Has an umbilical hernia (which can also be repaired at the same time as the tummy tuck procedure)

What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, performed by Dr. Antell offers both cosmetic and health-related benefits for patients looking to restore a smoother, more toned abdomen. The procedure is ideal for those who have experienced changes due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging. The key benefits include:

  • A flatter, more toned abdomen
  • Restored muscle integrity
  • Targeted fat removal
  • Reduced stretch marks
  • Boosted self-confidence
  • Long-lasting results
Dr Antell consulting with patient walking together in modern medical office hallway - in New York, NY

How to Begin Your Tummy Tuck Journey

In your initial consultation, Dr. Antell will evaluate your general health and medical history and examine the current condition of your abdomen. After listening to your concerns, he will work with you to develop the most appropriate body-contouring plan for achieving your desired outcome while minimizing risks. Dr. Antell offers a range of body-contouring procedures and can explain the available options. Liposuction may be sufficient with a shorter recovery and minimal scarring if there is only excess fat in the abdomen. A tummy tuck is often the appropriate procedure for those with large amounts of excess skin and tissue or separated abdominal muscles.

During your initial consultation, please mention any significant weight loss or gain you have experienced. You should also inform him if you smoke and take any medications, vitamins, or other drugs. Don’t hesitate to ask Dr. Antell any questions about the surgery, recovery, and expected outcome.

What to Expect on the Day of a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck helps create smoother, tighter abdominal contours. The length and placement of your incisions will be customized based on your current condition, with the incision pattern reflecting the amount of skin and tissue to be removed. Dr. Antell will strategically place the incisions as hidden as possible, such as under clothing and bathing suits.

A full tummy tuck typically requires a horizontal incision between the pubic hairline and belly button in order to access the damaged abdominal muscles. A second incision may be made around the belly button to flatten the upper abdomen most effectively and, if needed, relocate the naval structure.

After repairing the abdominal muscles, the excess skin, fat, and tissue are then removed. Multiple layers of meticulous sutures, with external sutures as needed, will be used to close the incisions and support the new contours. Dr. Antell may place a temporary tube during surgery to drain fluid and help achieve a flatter result.

In addition, a bandage may be placed over the incision areas to provide support and aid in healing. Depending on the complexity of your customized procedure, surgery may take anywhere from two to three hours to complete.

Dr Antell in navy suit and tie having serious discussion in office setting - in New York, NY

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Your Guide to Post-Tummy Tuck Care

After undergoing the surgery, you will recover in Dr. Antell’s state-of-the-art recovery suite while being monitored by one of his nurses until you feel well enough to be discharged. Tummy tuck surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can return home the same day as your surgery. When performed under IV sedation, you should be prepared to have an escort to bring you home, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours after the administration of anesthesia. Upon leaving the facility, you will be provided with thorough discharge instructions that will guide you through the initial post-operative period. Throughout your recovery, Dr. Antell and his staff will be available to answer any questions you may have.

Your first follow-up appointment will typically be scheduled for the day after surgery so that Dr. Antell can observe the healing process. You can sponge bathe immediately and usually take a shower 48 hours after your procedure. If deemed necessary, you may be prescribed antibiotics to help prevent infection. If so, please be sure that you take the entire course as directed.

Notable recovery milestones are as follows:

  • While you will be able to return to most light, daily activities within a few days, Dr. Antell may recommend taking up to 10-14 days off before returning to work, especially if abdominal muscle repair is required.
  • If a temporary drainage tube is placed, it will likely be removed within the first 10-14 days.
  • External sutures, if used, will be removed 10-14 days after your procedure.
  • Depending on the extent of your procedure, you may be asked to refrain from vigorous exercise for up to four weeks.
  • Most patients can resume core strengthening exercises, such as Pilates and Yoga, about six weeks after surgery.
  • After the procedure, you will likely be bruised and swollen. While this will mostly dissipate within the first six to eight weeks after surgery, some residual swelling can remain for six months or more.

The incisions of a tummy tuck are strategically placed to be as hidden from view as possible when wearing clothing or a swimsuit. Over time, the incisions will fade and become less noticeable. Your surgeon’s skill is the most critical factor in achieving the desired outcome. Protect your scars from direct sunlight for the first 6 months by using appropriate sunblock, as sun exposure can cause changes in pigmentation. You can be confident that you will achieve a superior result from a lower tummy tuck when under the care of a doctor with the experience of Dr. Antell.

What Will My Expected Result Be?

Most patients are extremely satisfied with the outcome of their tummy tuck, feeling more confident in revealing clothes and more at ease with their bodies. The smooth, firm, and sculpted abdomen that results from a tummy tuck is long-lasting, provided you maintain your weight by eating sensibly and exercising regularly.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in New York City?

With Dr. Antell, your tummy tuck in NYC is an individualized procedure carefully tailored to each patient. Patients who need more work should expect to pay more. For instance, tightening muscles, skin excision, and removing unwanted fatty tissue can all require varying amounts of work and/or time to treat. Additional cost-related factors include the hospital or operating room fees, anesthesia fees, and your surgeon’s fee. Please contact us for a personal consultation and price point, and we’d be happy to provide one.

Why Choose Dr. Antell?

Dr. Darrick E. Antell is one of the most experienced board-certified plastic surgeons. Repeatedly recognized as a “Top Plastic Surgeon” by Harper’s Bazaar, Town and Country, Vogue, and New York Magazine, he has been asked to present his techniques at professional seminars both within the United States and internationally. Dr. Antell will also be recognized among Newsweek’s America’s Best Plastic Surgeons 2026.

Trained at Stanford and Cornell, Dr. Antell is trusted by celebrities, high-profile individuals, and discerning patients from around the world for his exceptional talent, meticulous attention to detail, and highly personalized care. Dr. Antell approaches tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) surgery with the philosophy that “plastic surgery should whisper, not scream,” striving to produce results that appear natural and enhance your beauty.

NYC Plastic Surgeon

MD, FACS

Tummy Tuck FAQ’S

  • “I recommend him with complete confidence”

    It is rare to find a physician who combines exceptional surgical talent with genuine kindness and integrity, but Dr. Antel does exactly that. I recommend him with complete confidence to anyone

    Giovanni S.

  • “I am extremely grateful”

    I am extremely grateful for the care I have received over the years and would not hesitate to recommend Dr. Antell and his wonderful team—Rosa, Nancy, and Tiffany—to anyone.

    Anonymous

  • “I’m so pleased and grateful”

    I recently underwent a breast augmentation procedure with Dr. Antell at his New York City office. I’m so pleased and grateful for a seamless experience and successful result.

    Theresa D.

  • “Had a fantastic experience”

    Had a fantastic experience with Dr. Antell and his entire team in NYC, Manhattan. From start to finish, they made what could have been a stressful process feel smooth, comfortable, and well-managed.

    Ben R.

  • “Highly recommend”

    Him and his team has always made me feel comfortable through any process/procedure(shoutout to Nancy and Rosa!). Highly recommend.

    Eric L.

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