Tummy Tuck
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) in Kirkland, WA
For many people, improving the appearance of the abdomen can be challenging through diet and exercise alone. Weight changes, pregnancy, or the natural aging process can leave behind stretched skin, weak muscles, and stubborn fat. At Remington Plastic Surgery, an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) can address these concerns in one procedure.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
Also known as an abdominoplasty, this procedure is designed to remove excess skin and fat
from the lower abdomen and tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. The result can
be transformative for patients who desire a more toned and flatter abdomen. Liposuction in
isolation cannot correct loose, stretched skin, but this technique is frequently used to contour
the flanks or upper abdomen at the same time as an abdominoplasty. Depending on how the
surgery is designed, stretch marks or scars can be removed entirely.
The incision is placed low, usually below the underwear line, and in most cases, the belly button is repositioned to fit the new shape. For some patients, a mini tummy tuck, which involves a shorter incision and no belly button adjustment, is all that’s needed.
Who’s a Good Fit for This Procedure?
Abdominoplasty might be right for you if:
- You’re at or near your ideal weight
- You have sagging skin or a soft bulge in your abdomen
- You’ve noticed muscle weakness or separation (rectus diastasis)
- Your midsection hasn’t responded to diet and exercise
This isn’t a weight loss procedure, but it can be a powerful way to refine your shape after weight changes, pregnancy, or simply time. We see both women and men for tummy tuck consultations, and we customize every approach based on your anatomy and goals.
What Happens During a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts two to three hours. Once you’re comfortably asleep, your surgeon begins by making a horizontal incision low on the abdomen, usually positioned to be hidden by underwear or swimwear. Through this opening, excess skin and fat are carefully removed. If the abdominal muscles have separated, they are brought together and sutured to restore core strength and stability.
After tightening the muscles, the remaining skin is gently pulled downward to create a smoother, flatter contour.
Standard Tummy Tuck
For patients undergoing a full abdominoplasty, the belly button is repositioned to sit naturally within the new abdominal shape. The incision is then closed with absorbable sutures that don’t require removal, helping to support a clean, precise closure.
In some cases, small surgical drains are placed to help reduce fluid buildup in the days following surgery. These are usually removed within a week.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck may be performed for patients who only need correction below the belly button. This version of the procedure involves a shorter incision and typically does not include belly button repositioning or muscle repair.
What’s Recovery Like?
The first few days after surgery are expected to be the most sore and uncomfortable. To help, we apply long-acting local anesthesia during the procedure and provide prescription medication to manage pain at home.
You’ll wear a compression garment to support your abdomen and help reduce swelling. Most patients can move around gently within a few days and return to desk work or light activity after about two weeks. More intense movement—like exercise or heavy lifting—should wait until you’ve healed, usually around four to six weeks.
Swelling gradually goes down over time. You’ll start seeing more noticeable changes within a few weeks, with continued improvements as your body settles into its new shape. We’ll guide you through each stage so you know what to expect and how to support your recovery.
What Are the Benefits?
Patients choose abdominoplasty because they want real, lasting improvement in their midsection. Common benefits include:
- A flatter, more defined abdominal profile
- Tighter core and improved posture
- Removal of loose skin and localized fat
- Reduction of lower abdominal stretch marks
- Clothing that fits and feels better
- A noticeable boost in body confidence
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
The cost depends on several factors, including the type of tummy tuck (standard or mini), the amount of correction needed, and whether liposuction is also performed. During your consultation, we’ll give you a detailed, personalized quote and walk you through financing options if needed.
Why Work With Remington Plastic Surgery?
Remington Plastic Surgery is a family-run practice based in Kirkland, WA. The team is led by Dr. Brad Remington, a board-certified plastic surgeon with over 30 years of experience, and Dr. Austin Remington, who trained in plastic and reconstructive surgery at Stanford and the University of Michigan.
Their approach is grounded in careful evaluation, open communication, and respect for each patient’s goals. Surgical plans are based on what is appropriate and medically sound, not trends or shortcuts. Safety, function, and natural results guide every decision.
Most of our body procedures are performed in our Medicare-certified outpatient facility. From consultation through follow-up, patients are cared for by a small, experienced team that values consistency, clarity, and attention to detail.
FAQs About Abdominoplasty
How safe is abdominoplasty?
Tummy tuck surgery is considered safe when performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. Like any procedure, there are risks, but complications are uncommon. We’ll go over everything in detail before surgery.
How long is the recovery time?
Most people are back to light activity in two weeks. Full recovery takes about four to six weeks, depending on the extent of surgery and your healing pace.
Are there risks or complications I should know about?
Potential risks include fluid buildup, infection, scarring, or delayed healing. These are rare, and we give clear post-operative instructions to help prevent them.
How long do the results last?
With stable weight and good lifestyle habits, results will last for many years. Muscle repair and fat removal are long-term improvements.
Will it get rid of stretch marks?
Yes, if the stretch marks are in the lower abdomen and part of the removed skin. Others may still be visible but can look less prominent after surgery.
Schedule Your Tummy Tuck Consultation in Kirkland, WA
If you’re ready to improve your abdominal shape and core strength, we’re here to help. Our team at Remington Plastic Surgery in Kirkland is happy to walk you through every step of the abdominoplasty process.
Schedule your consultation today—we’d love to help you feel more at home in your body.
Recovery and Results
Patients can expect the abdomen to be sore and feel tight after surgery – we give long-acting local anesthesia in the operating room and prescription medications to keep you comfortable at home. Everyone heals at a different pace, but it will be worth it! A compression garment is provided and will help reduce the majority of the swelling over several weeks. Heavy lifting and strenuous activity should be avoided for four to six weeks. The abdominoplasty result can be maintained for decades with a healthy lifestyle.
Tummy Tuck Gallery
“I wish I could give Dr Remington and his staff 10 stars“
"I wish I could give Dr Remington and his staff 10 stars. The entire process from consult to pre/post surgery was comfortable and informative and the results were exactly what I was looking for. Highly recommend!!"
- J.P.