A tummy tuck promises a flatter stomach, tighter skin, and shapelier body contours. But before taking the plunge, it’s essential to choose your plastic surgeon carefully. One way to determine who is the best fit for you is by reviewing their tummy tuck before and after photos. To help guide your search, we’ve compiled a list of 5 key things to look for when evaluating these real patient transformations.
#1. Tummy Tuck Scars
While scarring is an inevitable part of any surgery, unsightly, prominent, or uneven scarring doesn’t need to be. The incision is typically made below the bikini line, so make sure the scar is low enough to be easily hidden. If the after photos show minimal scarring or scars that have faded significantly, it is a positive sign of a skilled surgeon.
#2. Natural-Looking Belly Button
The typical tummy tuck belly button is often a giveaway of that procedure. While the belly button itself isn’t remade, it is pushed through a new opening and re-attached. A successful tummy tuck transformation should create a natural shape and positioning for the navel that blends seamlessly with the rest of your abdomen.
#3. Skin Tightness
The goal of a tummy tuck is to eliminate excess skin and create a firmer, more toned abdomen. The skin should appear smoother and free from sagging in the after photos. When evaluating tummy tuck pictures, look for taut but not unnaturally tight skin.
#4. Visible Waist Definition
A tummy tuck can enhance your waistline by creating a defined and slimmer look, particularly when combined with liposuction. When studying tummy tuck patient photos, consider whether the transformation picture shows a more sculpted waistline or visible improvements in the contours of the abdomen. Still not sure? You can learn more about the benefits of pairing the procedures in our related blog post.
#5. Natural-Looking Results
Examine the overall harmony of the before and after photos. Are the results proportionate to the patient’s body? Look for a consistent, balanced improvement in the abdominal and waist contours. The after photos should demonstrate a smoother and flatter appearance, with excess skin and fat removed. The belly button should be unremarkable in its subtle, natural look, and the scar should be as unobtrusive as possible.
Start Your Tummy Tuck Journey Today
If you have been inspired by these tummy tuck before and after photos and would like to learn how Lewis Plastic Surgery can help you achieve your own transformation, please request a consultation or call us at (804) 267-6009 to get started.