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Top Five Things to Know Before a Tummy Tuck in New York

Gordon Andan, MD

As one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures, the tummy tuck is a well-established procedure. (1) Also known as abdominoplasty, a tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while also tightening the underlying muscles. (2)

While effective, there are a handful of factors patients should consider before undergoing treatment. The most important factor in a tummy tuck is who performs your procedure, and seeking the skill of an experienced cosmetic surgeon will produce optimal results.

With locations in New York City and Long Island, Dr. Gordon Andan and his expert team at New York Surgical Arts are among the East Coast’s finest. Dr. Andan and his staff take a patient-first approach to each tummy tuck, ensuring each patient understands what the treatment entails.

This article will provide you with an overview of the top five most vital things we think you should know about tummy tucks.

To learn more, contact New York Surgical Arts online or call (516) 746-0155 to schedule your personal consultation with Dr. Andan.

Before and After Photos

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About Tummy Tucks

Tummy tucks rejuvenate the abdomen by removing excess tissue and tightening the abdominal muscles. It is one of the most popular treatments in cosmetic surgery, and patients frequently pursue it to address excess skin from the effects of the natural aging process, significant weight loss, pregnancy, and more.

Dr. Andan and his team want to ensure that any patient looking to refine their abdominal area knows and understands a few important factors before pursuing this procedure. Here are five things Dr. Andan and the New York Surgical Arts team believe are important to know before undergoing a tummy tuck:

1. Not Every Doctor is the Same

Choosing the right surgeon is arguably the most important factor to consider before scheduling your tummy tuck. Patients should always research their surgeon’s credentials, review before-and-after photos, and schedule a personal consultation before moving forward. The decision of who performs your surgery will directly impact your experience and results. Patients who do their homework before pursuing a tummy tuck are often the most satisfied with their results.

Although New York is filled with cosmetic surgeons, not all have the experience, specialized training, or supporting staff to perform this procedure in a way that produces satisfactory results safely and effectively. Dr. Gordon Andan is a board-certified cosmetic surgeon who has dedicated his practice to surgical body contouring, liposuction, and tummy tucks. This distinction matters because cosmetic surgery requires a different set of skills than other surgical specialties. With years of experience and a reputation for creating natural-looking results, Dr. Andan brings skill and precision to each procedure.

2. A Tummy Tuck Does More than Remove Excess Skin

Many patients initially believe that tummy tucks only remove excess skin. While skin removal is a key part of the procedure, the surgery also repairs the abdominal muscles that often weaken or separate due to pregnancy or massive weight gain. (3) By repairing these muscles, patients not only see a slimmer waist but may also experience improved posture and better core stability.

By addressing both skin laxity and muscle separation, Dr. Andan creates stunning results that last.

3. You Have Options for Customization

Not all tummy tucks are the same. Dr. Andan can tailor the procedure to each patient’s concerns, and he can perform several variations of this procedure, which include:

  • Mini Tummy Tuck: Focuses on tightening the lower abdomen below the belly button. Best for patients with mild concerns.
  • Full Tummy Tuck: Removes excess skin, repairs muscles, and reshapes the entire midsection. This is the most common approach.
  • Extended Tummy Tuck: Addresses skin laxity that extends to the flanks and lower back, often recommended after significant weight loss.

Dr. Andan works closely with patients to determine which technique will help them achieve their desired outcome. By offering a personalized approach, he ensures that each patient receives a procedure that matches their anatomy and goals.

4. You Can Combine a Tummy Tuck with Other Treatments

One of the most exciting aspects of a tummy tuck is that you can combine it with other procedures for a more comprehensive transformation. At New York Surgical Arts, Dr. Andan regularly combines a tummy tuck with procedures such as:

  • Liposuction and 360 Liposuction: Sculpts the waist, back, and flanks to create a slimmer, more defined shape.
  • Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL): Enhances body proportions by transferring fat to the buttocks for a rounder, lifted appearance.
  • Arm Lift or Thigh Lift: Removes excess skin and refines limbs after weight loss.
  • Mommy Makeover: Combines a tummy tuck with breast enhancement and liposuction for women seeking post-pregnancy rejuvenation.
  • VASER Hi-Def Liposuction: Creates a more athletic, contoured look by targeting fat around the abdominal muscles.

By creating a customized plan that addresses multiple areas, Dr. Andan helps patients achieve results that are balanced, natural, and proportionate.

5. Recovery and Results Require Patience

While tummy tucks deliver exceptional results, it is important to keep in mind that recovery takes time. Patients should plan for at least two weeks of downtime before resuming light activities, and several more weeks before returning to strenuous exercise. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are common during the initial recovery period, but these gradually improve. Final results often take several months to fully emerge as the body heals and tissues settle into place.

Patients who maintain a stable weight, avoid nicotine and alcohol, and follow Dr. Andan’s post-operative instructions enjoy long-lasting results. Tummy tucks produce permanent results, but patients should avoid future weight fluctuations and pregnancies. Dr. Andan and his staff will remain available to guide you through the process.

Ideal Candidates

Another important factor to note is that not every patient qualifies for tummy tuck surgery. However, ideal candidates often share the following qualities:

  • Are at or near their goal weight
  • Experience loose or sagging abdominal skin
  • Have weakened abdominal muscles that need repair
  • Are in good overall health and able to undergo surgery
  • Maintain realistic expectations for results

Dr. Andan will determine your tummy tuck eligibility during your consultation.

Personal Consultation

Because of all these variables and more, the first step in your tummy tuck is a personal consultation. During this appointment, Dr. Andan will carefully evaluate your concerns, listen to your goals, and recommend a customized surgical plan. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and learn about what the process entails firsthand. This personalized approach ensures that you feel confident and fully informed before moving forward. Patients consistently appreciate Dr. Andan’s professionalism, artistry, and clear communication.

Call New York Surgical Arts at (516) 746-0155 or contact us online today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward your transformation.

Preparation and Procedure

Preparing for a tummy tuck involves a few important steps. Dr. Andan and his team will guide you through the preparation process and outline any steps you need to take to set yourself up for a successful procedure. As for the procedure itself, the process usually begins with the administration of anesthesia for comfort, then Dr. Andan will carefully place incisions to allow for the removal of excess skin and the tightening of abdominal muscles. In some cases, Dr. Andan uses liposuction to refine contours. Surgery typically lasts several hours, depending on the complexity of the case, but most patients return home the same day.

Cost of a Tummy Tuck in New York City and Long Island

The cost of a tummy tuck varies depending on the extent of the procedure, whether we perform additional treatments, and each patient’s individual concerns. During your consultation, Dr. Andan will provide a personalized quote and discuss financing options to make your procedure more accessible.

Schedule your consultation today to explore your tummy tuck possibilities. If you have any questions or prefer to schedule over the phone, please call our office at (516) 746-0155.

FAQ

How long will my tummy tuck results last?

Patients achieve long-lasting results when they maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Natural aging will continue, but repaired muscles and tightened skin will not revert to their prior condition.

Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?

Yes. Many patients combine a tummy tuck with liposuction, breast enhancement, or a Brazilian Butt Lift for more comprehensive results.

Will I have visible scars from a tummy tuck?

Dr. Andan places incisions in discreet locations, usually below the bikini line. Scars fade significantly over time and are easily concealed by clothing or swimwear.

Is a tummy tuck painful?

Patients may experience discomfort during the first week of recovery, but pain medication and supportive garments help manage these symptoms. Most patients report that the results are well worth the temporary discomfort.

Am I too old for a tummy tuck?

Age is less important than overall health. Patients of many ages undergo tummy tuck surgery with excellent results, as long as they are medically cleared.

References

  1. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics Report. plasticsurgery.org. Published June 2025. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf
  2. Regan JP, Casaubon JT. Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck). PubMed. Published 2020. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431058/
  3. Ramirez AE, Hsieh TY, Cardenas JP, Lao WW. Abdominoplasty: My Preferred Techniques. Annals of Plastic Surgery. 2021;86(3S):S229. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/SAP.0000000000002639