Restore Core Strength & Flat Contours with Precision Tummy Tuck Surgery
Specialized diastasis recti muscle repair and excess skin excision by Dr. Arun Rao, Tucson's trusted plastic surgeon.
"I finally feel like myself again."
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Full vs. Mini Tummy Tuck: Which Is Right for You?
Dr. Rao evaluates your anatomy, skin quality, and abdominal muscle condition to recommend the approach that will give you the most natural, lasting result.
Full Abdominoplasty
A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdomen, from the pubic area to the ribcage. Dr. Rao repairs the full length of the abdominal muscles and removes excess skin and fat across the whole midsection, often repositioning the belly button for a natural result.
- Significant skin laxity above and below the navel
- Diastasis recti affecting the full length of the abdominal wall
- Prior pregnancies or major weight changes affecting the entire midsection
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck focuses on the area below the navel. The incision is shorter, the belly button is typically left in place, and muscle repair — when needed — is limited to the lower abdomen. Recovery is generally quicker than with a full procedure.
- Excess skin and fat limited to the lower abdomen
- Minimal muscle separation, confined below the navel
- Good skin elasticity in the upper abdomen
Abdominal Wall Tightening & Diastasis Recti Repair
A tummy tuck is more than skin removal — its lasting results come from repairing the underlying muscle structure. Dr. Rao's approach to abdominal wall tightening addresses the root cause of post-pregnancy core weakness: separated and weakened abdominal muscles.
Carrying a pregnancy, or significant weight fluctuation, can cause the paired rectus abdominis muscles to stretch apart — a condition known as diastasis recti. This separation leaves a visible bulge and a weakened core that diet and exercise alone cannot correct.
During abdominoplasty, Dr. Rao surgically brings these muscles back to the midline and sutures the surrounding fascia into a tighter, more supportive configuration. The result is a flatter, firmer abdominal profile and a core that functions the way it did before pregnancy.
Diastasis Recti Correction
Pregnancy and significant weight changes can stretch and separate the rectus abdominis muscles. Dr. Rao sutures the separated muscles back together along the midline, closing the gap that no amount of exercise can resolve on its own.
Fascial Plication Technique
Using a precise plication technique, the connective tissue (fascia) surrounding the abdominal muscles is folded and sutured to create a firmer, more defined abdominal wall — restoring the natural muscular corset of the core.
Restored Core Strength & Posture
Tightening the abdominal wall does more than improve contour — it strengthens the core's structural support, which can ease lower back discomfort and improve posture that often follows pregnancy or major weight loss.
Removing Excess Skin for a Smoother Silhouette
Pregnancy and significant weight loss can leave behind loose, redundant abdominal skin that no amount of diet or exercise can resolve. Dr. Rao's excision technique removes this excess skin at its source, tightening the lower abdomen and revealing a firmer, more contoured waistline.
Precise Incision Placement
Dr. Rao plans a low, carefully hidden incision designed to be easily concealed beneath most clothing and swimwear, minimizing visible scarring.
Excess Skin Removal
Loose, stretched skin left behind by pregnancy or significant weight loss is surgically excised, eliminating overhang and sagging along the lower abdomen.
Contour Refinement & Closure
Remaining tissue is gently redraped and sutured for a smooth, natural-looking abdominal contour that restores a firmer, more youthful silhouette.
A smoother, firmer abdominal contour after excess skin removal
Your Tummy Tuck Recovery Timeline
Every patient heals differently, but here is what you can generally expect week by week as your body recovers from abdominoplasty.
Rest & Initial Healing
You'll rest at home with a compression garment in place to support your abdomen. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation, while bending and lifting are kept to a minimum.
Returning to Light Activity
Swelling begins to subside and most patients feel comfortable resuming light daily tasks. Dr. Rao will see you for a follow-up visit to check your incisions and overall progress.
Back to Normal Routines
Most patients return to work and non-strenuous routines during this window. Energy levels continue to improve as the abdominal muscles and tissues continue to strengthen.
Resuming Exercise
With Dr. Rao's clearance, patients typically resume exercise and more strenuous activity, with final results becoming increasingly visible as residual swelling resolves.
Real Results, Verified 5-Star Reviews
"Dr. Rao and his team made me feel comfortable from my very first consultation. My tummy tuck results exceeded my expectations and the recovery support was incredible."
Shawna Hernandez
Verified Google Review
"I finally feel like myself again after having kids. Dr. Rao's attention to detail and honest guidance throughout the process made all the difference."
Koko Tinker
Verified Google Review
"The entire staff was professional and caring every step of the way. My abdominoplasty results look natural and the scarring is barely visible."
Cyndi Guerrini
Verified Google Review
"Highly recommend Dr. Rao for anyone considering a tummy tuck. The facility is top notch and the results speak for themselves."
Dave Gardner
Verified Google Review
Tummy Tuck FAQs
Answers to the questions we hear most often from patients considering abdominoplasty.
Ready to Begin Your Transformation?
Schedule your personalized tummy tuck consultation with Dr. Rao today.
