Tummy Tuck
As a board-eligible plastic surgeon serving Houston and The Woodlands, TX, Dr. Cassie Hartline combines precision and artistry to help patients feel confident in their bodies. She offers tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty, to remove excess skin, repair separated muscles, and sculpt a firmer, tighter midsection.
Whether your concerns stem from post-partum or pregnancy body changes, significant weight loss, or aging, tummy tuck surgery in Houston can be a life-changing solution for reclaiming your silhouette.
What is Abdominoplasty?
Abdominoplasty, or a tummy tuck, is the third most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the U.S., designed to tighten and reshape the abdominal area. Dr. Hartline removes excess skin, eliminates stubborn fat, and repairs weakened or separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), often caused by pregnancy or major weight fluctuations.
The result is a flatter, firmer abdomen and a more sculpted waistline, restoring both comfort and confidence. This procedure is ideal for patients who struggle with stretched skin or bulging in the abdomen that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise.
Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery
Every abdominoplasty procedure is tailored to meet the patient’s specific needs, but the benefits often include:
- Tighter, firmer abdominal appearance
- Removal of excess, sagging skin
- Repair of diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles)
- Enhanced body contours and waistline definition
- Smoother, flatter stomach area
- Improved posture and core stability
- Boost in confidence and self-esteem
- Better fit in clothing and swimwear
Dr. Hartline is known for delivering natural-looking tummy tuck results that help patients feel like themselves again—just refreshed.
Types of Tummy Tuck Procedures
No two bodies are the same, which is why Dr. Hartline customizes each tummy tuck surgery to suit your anatomy and goals. The three main types of tummy tucks include:
Mini Tummy Tuck
Best for patients with mild skin laxity and no muscle separation, this procedure targets the area below the belly button and involves a smaller incision and shorter recovery.
Full Tummy Tuck
This is the most common abdominoplasty procedure and is ideal for patients with loose skin, excess fat, and muscle separation above and below the belly button. It includes full abdominal contouring and muscle repair.
Extended Tummy Tuck
This approach is often recommended for patients who have undergone significant weight loss. It addresses loose skin and fat on the abdomen, flanks, and lower back for more comprehensive body contouring surgery.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure: What to Expect
Dr. Hartline believes that surgical success begins well before the operating room. She takes time to get to know each patient, understand their concerns, and design a plan that reflects their desired outcome.
Preparing for Tummy Tuck Surgery
Your journey starts with a consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Hartline will:
- Review your medical history and current health
- Discuss your goals and expectations
- Evaluate your abdominal anatomy
- Recommend a personalized surgical plan
If you smoke or use nicotine products, you’ll be asked to stop at least two months before surgery to reduce the risk of complications.
Your Tummy Tuck Procedure
Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes 2–4 hours. Dr. Hartline makes a low, horizontal incision (hidden below the bikini line), removes excess skin and fat, and repairs the abdominal wall if needed.
Dr. Hartline is known for delivering natural-looking tummy tuck results. She carefully redrapes the skin to create a natural contour and takes special care with details like the belly button and pubic area to ensure beautiful, balanced results.
Recovery & Aftercare
After surgery, a friend or family member should drive you home and stay with you for 24–48 hours. You may have temporary drains and will be provided with a compression garment to support healing and reduce swelling.
Dr. Hartline uses Exparel, a long-lasting, non-opioid pain relief injection that helps minimize discomfort for several days to enhance recovery.
Key tummy tuck recovery tips:
- Take light walks within 24–48 hours to support circulation
- Avoid strenuous activity, lifting, and workouts for 6 weeks
- Sleep with your upper body elevated and knees slightly bent
- Follow all incision care and scar management instructions
- Attend all post-op visits for proper monitoring
Tummy Tuck vs Liposuction: What’s the Difference?
Liposuction and abdominoplasty are both body contouring procedures, but they serve different purposes:
- Liposuction removes localized fat but doesn’t address loose skin or muscle separation.
- Tummy tuck surgery removes excess skin and tightens abdominal muscles, making it ideal for post-weight loss surgery options or tummy tuck for weight loss patients who’ve already shed significant pounds.
In many cases, Dr. Hartline performs a tummy tuck with liposuction to achieve the most refined, natural-looking contour.
Ready to Transform Your Body?
Book a Consultation Today!
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a firmer, flatter midsection, schedule your consultation with Dr. Cassie Hartline, a trusted provider of tummy tuck surgery in Houston and The Woodlands. She’ll listen to your goals, answer your questions, and help you feel empowered every step of the way.
FAQs About Tummy Tuck Procedure
Who is a Good Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery are in good health and at a healthy, stable weight. While abdominoplasty is considered a cosmetic surgery, it can also provide physical relief for patients who are bothered by significant loose skin.
Is Tummy Tuck Weight Loss Surgery?
No, a tummy tuck surgery is not designed for weight loss. It is a plastic surgery to remove loose skin and small amounts of fat from the abdominal area. However, many patients who have had bariatric procedures decide to have tummy tuck surgery to remove loose skin after they have lost a significant amount of weight.
How Much Time Should I Take Off Work?
This can vary depending on how strenuous your work is. In general, you should expect to be out of work for at least one week, but you may need more time off depending on your treatment plan and the activity level of your job.
Will I Have Visible Scars?
Tummy tuck surgery requires an incision that will result in some scarring, but Dr. Hartline takes care to create an incision that results in an easily hidden scar. She also has patients begin a scar management program six weeks after surgery to help tummy tuck scars fade as quickly as possible.
Are There Any Risks?
Any surgical procedure carries some risk of side effects or complications. Dr. Harline prioritizes patient safety to minimize the risk of serious side effects. She will discuss all potential risks before surgery to ensure you are fully informed.
Are the Results Permanent?
Tummy tuck surgery is permanent. However, future pregnancies or weight gain can cause skin to stretch or muscles to separate again.
Can I Combine a Tummy Tuck With Other Cosmetic Procedures?
Yes, abdominoplasty is frequently combined with liposuction for comprehensive body contouring. A tummy tuck is also commonly part of a mommy makeover or full body makeover, in which women customize a treatment plan that may include breast augmentation or breast lift and other cosmetic procedures.
1 Mayo Clinic. Tummy Tuck. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/tummy-tuck/about/pac-20384892 Accessed September 5, 2023
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Four medical benefits of a tummy tuck. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/four-medical-benefits-of-a-tummy-tuck Accessed September 5, 2023
Cassie Hartline M.D. has either authored or reviewed and approved this content
Page Updated: May 19, 2025