How do I know if I'm a good candidate for plastic surgery?

Good candidates are in good physical health, have realistic expectations, and specific concerns they'd like to address. During your consultation, Dr. RIDHA will evaluate your medical history, current health, and aesthetic goals to determine the best approach for you.

What is the recovery time for most procedures?

Recovery varies by procedure. Facial surgeries typically require 1-2 weeks of initial healing, while body procedures may need 2-4 weeks. Dr. RIDHA provides detailed recovery timelines and post-operative care instructions tailored to your specific procedure.

How often should I get Botox treatments?

Most patients schedule Botox treatments every 3-4 months to maintain optimal results. The frequency may vary based on your metabolism, muscle strength, and desired outcomes. Regular treatments often extend the duration of results.

What's the difference between dermal fillers and Botox?

Botox relaxes muscles that cause dynamic wrinkles (expression lines), while dermal fillers add volume to smooth static wrinkles and enhance features. Many patients combine both treatments for comprehensive facial rejuvenation.

Do you offer financing options for procedures?

Yes! We partner with several financing companies including CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit to offer flexible payment plans. Many patients qualify for 0% interest for qualified periods. Our team can help you explore all available options.

Are consultations free?

Yes, initial consultations with Dr. RIDHA are complimentary. This includes a thorough evaluation, discussion of your goals, treatment recommendations, and detailed cost estimates. There's no obligation to proceed.

What are Dr. Ridha's credentials and experience?

Dr. RIDHA is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with over 20 years of experience. He completed his plastic surgery residency at prestigious institutions and regularly attends continuing education to stay current with the latest techniques.

How do I know if I'm a good candidate for plastic surgery?

Good candidates are in good physical health, have realistic expectations, and specific concerns they'd like to address. During your consultation, Dr. RIDHA will evaluate your medical history, current health, and aesthetic goals to determine the best approach for you.

What is the recovery time for most procedures?

Recovery varies by procedure. Facial surgeries typically require 1-2 weeks of initial healing, while body procedures may need 2-4 weeks. Dr. RIDHA provides detailed recovery timelines and post-operative care instructions tailored to your specific procedure.

Will there be visible scarring after surgery?

Dr. RIDHA uses advanced surgical techniques to minimize scarring. Incisions are strategically placed in natural creases or hidden areas. Most scars fade significantly over 6-12 months and become barely visible with proper care.

How long do surgical results last?

Surgical results are long-lasting, often permanent. However, natural aging continues. Most patients enjoy their results for 10-15 years or more. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps preserve your investment.

What are Dr. Ridha's credentials and experience?

Dr. RIDHA is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery with over 20 years of experience. He completed his plastic surgery residency at prestigious institutions and regularly attends continuing education to stay current with the latest techniques.

Ready to get started?

Call (518) 587-2000

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Achieve a firmer, flatter abdomen with tummy tuck surgery that removes excess skin, tightens weakened muscles, and creates a smoother, more toned midsection.

Procedure Time

2-5 Hours

Recovery Time

2-4 Weeks

Anesthesia

General

Results

Permanent

About Tummy Tuck Surgery

A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a transformative cosmetic surgery procedure designed to create a flatter, more toned abdominal profile by removing excess skin and fat while repairing weakened or separated abdominal muscles.

Dr. RIDHA specializes in advanced abdominoplasty techniques including traditional full tummy tucks, mini tummy tucks, and extended tummy tucks. Each procedure is customized to address your specific concerns, whether you're dealing with loose skin after pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.

During your consultation, Dr. RIDHA will evaluate your abdominal anatomy, discuss your aesthetic goals, and recommend the most appropriate tummy tuck technique to achieve optimal results while maintaining natural body contours.

Board-certified plastic surgeon with 20+ years of experience
Advanced surgical techniques for minimal scarring
Muscle repair for improved core strength and posture
Personalized approach tailored to your body type
Comprehensive post-operative care and follow-up

Plastic Surgeon

Board Certified

20+ Years

Experience

98% Rating

Patient Satisfaction

Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery

Flatter Abdominal Profile

Remove excess skin and fat to create a smoother, firmer, more toned midsection.

Strengthened Core

Repair separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) for improved core strength and stability.

Enhanced Confidence

Feel more confident in your appearance and clothing choices with a slimmer waistline.

Permanent Fat Removal

Surgically removed fat cells do not regenerate, providing long-lasting body contouring results.

Improved Posture

Repairing abdominal muscles can reduce back pain and improve overall posture and support.

Reduced Skin Irritation

Eliminate uncomfortable skin folds and rashes caused by excess hanging abdominal tissue.

Am I a Good Candidate?

Tummy tuck surgery may be right for you if you meet the following criteria:

✓ You May Be a Good Candidate If:

You are in good overall health with no serious medical conditions that impair healing
You have realistic expectations about the outcomes of abdominoplasty
You have excess abdominal skin that does not respond to diet and exercise
You have weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) from pregnancy or weight gain
You have completed your family and do not plan future pregnancies
You are at or near your ideal body weight and have maintained it for at least 6 months
You are a non-smoker or willing to quit smoking at least 4 weeks before and after surgery
You are committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stable weight after surgery

Procedure Details

Duration

2-5 Hours

Procedure duration depends on extent of correction needed

Anesthesia

General

Performed under general anesthesia for maximum comfort

Location

Outpatient

Performed in accredited surgical facility

Recovery

2-4 Weeks

Most patients return to work within 2-4 weeks

Results

3-6 Months

Final results visible after swelling subsides completely

Incision

Hip to Hip

Low horizontal incision easily concealed by underwear or swimwear

Recovery Timeline

Recovery from tummy tuck surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and adherence to post-operative instructions. Most patients follow this general timeline:

Immediate Recovery

First 1-2 Weeks

Days 1-14

Initial recovery phase with most restrictions

Moderate pain and discomfort managed with prescribed medication
Swelling, bruising, and tightness in abdominal area (peaks at 48-72 hours)
Surgical drains may be in place to remove excess fluid (typically 5-14 days)
Compression garment worn 24/7 to reduce swelling and support healing
Limited mobility; walk slightly hunched over to reduce tension on incision
No lifting over 10 pounds or strenuous activities
Rest and elevation encouraged; short walks to prevent blood clots

Short-term Recovery

Weeks 2-6

Days 15-42

Gradual return to normal activities with continued healing

Decreased pain and swelling; most discomfort subsides
Drains removed (if present) once drainage decreases sufficiently
Return to light desk work after 2-3 weeks (avoid physical jobs)
Continue wearing compression garment as directed (usually 6-8 weeks)
Begin light walking and gentle stretching (no core exercises yet)
Incision care and scar management protocols begin
Avoid heavy lifting, bending, and high-impact activities

Long-term Recovery

Months 2-6

Weeks 6+

Full recovery and final results emerge

Swelling gradually subsides; see dramatic improvement in contour
Cleared for all normal activities including exercise after 6-8 weeks
Resume core strengthening and high-impact workouts gradually
Scar continues to fade and flatten over 12-18 months
Final abdominal contour visible by 3-6 months post-surgery
Maintain stable weight and healthy lifestyle for lasting results
Long-term: Annual follow-ups to monitor healing and address concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about tummy tuck surgery. Contact us if you have additional questions.

A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdomen from ribcage to pubic area, removes significant excess skin, and repairs abdominal muscles above and below the navel. A mini tummy tuck focuses only on the lower abdomen below the navel with a shorter incision, removes less skin, and does not typically include muscle repair above the navel. Dr. RIDHA will recommend the best option based on your anatomy and goals.

Yes, tummy tuck surgery results in a permanent scar along the lower abdomen from hip to hip. However, Dr. RIDHA places the incision strategically along the bikini line where it can be easily concealed by underwear or swimwear. Scars are initially pink or red but fade significantly over 12-18 months. Following scar care instructions helps minimize their appearance.

Yes, you can safely become pregnant after tummy tuck surgery. However, pregnancy can stretch the abdominal skin and muscles again, potentially reversing your surgical results. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to complete your family before undergoing abdominoplasty to maintain your results long-term.

The cost of tummy tuck surgery varies based on the extent of correction needed, surgical technique, anesthesia, and facility fees. During your consultation, we will provide a detailed cost breakdown tailored to your specific procedure. We offer flexible financing options to make your surgery affordable.

Tummy tuck surgery is typically considered a cosmetic procedure and is not covered by health insurance. However, in rare cases where excess skin causes medical issues such as chronic rashes or infections, partial coverage may be possible. Our team can help you explore your options and provide documentation if needed.

Yes, tummy tuck surgery is often combined with other body contouring procedures such as liposuction, breast surgery, or thigh lift as part of a comprehensive mommy makeover or body transformation. Combining procedures can reduce overall recovery time and achieve more dramatic results. Dr. RIDHA will discuss safe combinations during your consultation.

Tummy tuck results are considered permanent as long as you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Surgically removed skin and fat do not grow back. However, significant weight fluctuations or future pregnancies can affect your results. With proper care, most patients enjoy their tummy tuck results for many years.

Light walking is encouraged immediately after surgery to promote circulation. You can resume light cardio (walking, stationary bike) after 3-4 weeks. Core-strengthening exercises and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least 6-8 weeks. Dr. RIDHA will provide personalized guidelines based on your healing progress.