Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Lower Manhattan, New York, NY
Pregnancy, significant weight fluctuation, and the natural process of aging can leave lasting structural changes to the abdomen that are impossible to reverse with exercise or diet alone: loose, excess skin; stretch marks; and diastasis recti — a separation of the paired rectus abdominis muscles along the midline. The tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is the definitive surgical procedure to address all three. Dr. Pierce Janssen combines meticulous muscle repair with precise skin excision and contouring to produce a flat, strong, and natural-appearing abdominal profile. When combined with liposuction, the result can be further refined to achieve a sculpted body contour.
Removes excess abdominal skin, repairs diastasis recti (muscle separation), and flattens and contours the midsection.
Utilizes discreet incisions and internal muscle tightening for a flat, firm profile.
Most patients return to light, downtown routines within 2 to 3 weeks.
Provides permanent structural correction to the midsection.
An abdominoplasty, also known as tummy tuck, is a surgical intervention that targets three key areas: the skin, the fat, and the muscle. While liposuction can remove fat, only an abdominoplasty can address skin laxity and the underlying muscle separation known as diastasis recti. Dr. Janssen’s unique perspective views the abdomen as the anchor of the body's proportions. The procedure involves removing the "apron" of excess skin below the navel and tightening the vertical abdominal muscles to create a narrower, firmer waistline. The result is a profile that is structurally sound and aesthetically refined.
A critical — and often underappreciated — component of the tummy tuck is the repair of diastasis recti. The separation of the rectus abdominis muscles along the midline linea alba creates an abdominal bulge that protrudes centrally regardless of body weight, and can contribute to back pain and pelvic floor dysfunction. During abdominoplasty, Dr. Janssen repairs the diastasis by suturing the midline fascial edges together along the entire length of the separation, from the xiphoid to the pubis — creating a corset of native tissue that dramatically flattens the abdominal contour and strengthens the core. This is complemented by the removal of excess skin from the lower abdomen and the precise repositioning and reshaping of the navel to a natural, youthful position.
The procedure begins with a discreet horizontal incision in the bikini line, ensuring it remains hidden under most undergarments and swimwear. Through this access point, Dr. Janssen meticulously tightens the abdominal muscles using internal sutures, acting as a "permanent corset" to flatten the abdomen. If necessary, liposuction is used to further sculpt the flanks and hips. Once the internal structure is restored, the excess skin is redraped and removed. Dr. Janssen pays particular attention to the creation of a natural-looking umbilicus (belly button) to ensure the final result looks as if it were never surgically altered. Abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia. When combined with flank liposuction, additional contouring of the waist and hips is achieved through the same surgical session. Drains are typically placed for five to seven days. A compression garment is worn for six weeks. Most patients return to desk work within two weeks and full unrestricted activity by six to eight weeks.
Ideal candidates have loose abdominal skin, stretch marks below the navel, and/or a confirmed or suspected diastasis recti that is causing a persistent abdominal bulge. Patients should be at or near their stable goal weight, be non-smokers or have ceased smoking at least six weeks prior to surgery, and have realistic expectations. Women who plan future pregnancies are generally advised to delay abdominoplasty until they are done having children.
Beyond the obvious aesthetic improvement and the ability to fit into clothes more comfortably, many patients report improved core strength and posture after repairing their abdominal muscles. It provides a significant boost in confidence and physical mobility.
Recovery is a gradual process. You will wear a supportive compression garment for several weeks to minimize swelling. While you will be walking gently within a day of surgery, most Manhattan professionals take about two to three weeks off before returning to work. High-impact exercise should be avoided for at least six weeks.
The change in your silhouette is visible immediately. While some swelling is expected in the first few months, the final, refined contours of your midsection will be fully realized as the tissues settle and the incision line begins to fade, typically between 6 to 12 months.
A full abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdominal wall from the lower ribcage to the pubis, repositions the navel, and removes skin from both the lower and upper abdomen by advancing the upper flap downward. A mini-abdominoplasty addresses only the area below the navel, requires a shorter incision, and does not involve navel repositioning. It is appropriate for patients with limited lower abdominal skin excess and a well-positioned navel.
The primary incision is placed low and horizontally across the lower abdomen — typically at or below the level of the pubic hairline — so that it is entirely hidden within underwear and bikini bottoms. A small circular scar surrounds the repositioned navel. With meticulous closure and appropriate scar care, both scars fade significantly over 12 to 18 months.
Yes — liposuction of the flanks, waist, hips, and outer thighs is a natural complement to abdominoplasty and is frequently performed in the same surgical session. The combination produces a dramatically more sculpted overall torso contour. However, extensive liposuction directly beneath the skin flap being lifted carries increased risk and is performed conservatively in the central abdomen.
