Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Fort Lauderdale

with Dr. Thomassen

Tummy Tuck with Dr. Thomassen

Are you struggling with loose abdominal skin, muscle laxity, or stubborn fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise? At Thomassen Plastic Surgery in Fort Lauderdale, our expert abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) procedures are designed to restore a smoother, tighter, and more contoured midsection.
Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) by Dr. Thomassen in Fort Lauderdale
Tummy Tuck By Dr. Thomassen

Why Choose to Undergo a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

A tummy tuck is a popular body contouring procedure that removes excess skin and fat and tightens weakened abdominal muscles. Common reasons patients seek this procedure include:

  • Post-pregnancy changes

  • Significant weight loss

  • Genetic predisposition to abdominal fullness

  • Age-related skin laxity

  • Scars or deformities from previous surgery or trauma

Despite a healthy lifestyle, these issues often require surgical correction to achieve long-lasting results.

Ideal Candidates for Abdominoplasty

You may be a good candidate for a tummy tuck if:

  • You have loose abdominal skin or a bulging abdomen due to muscle separation (diastasis recti)

  • You've experienced pregnancy or major weight loss

  • You're at a stable, healthy weight

  • You're not planning future pregnancies (which could reverse results)

  • You do not smoke, or you're willing to stop smoking for several weeks before and after surgery

Comprehensive Consultation with Dr. Thomassen

During your initial consultation, Dr. Thomassen will:

  • Review your medical and surgical history

  • Assess your skin quality, abdominal wall strength, and fat distribution

  • Discuss your goals and expectations

  • Recommend the right procedure — tummy tuck, mini abdominoplasty, or liposuction

We take a customized approach to each patient to ensure optimal outcomes and safety.

What Does the Tummy Tuck Procedure Involve?

Performed under general anesthesia by a board-certified anesthesiologist, the procedure typically takes about 3 hours and includes:

  1. Low horizontal incision just above the pubic area (carefully placed for minimal visibility)

  2. Tightening of abdominal muscles (muscle plication)

  3. Removal of excess skin and fat

  4. Repositioning of the belly button (umbilical transposition)

  5. Optional liposuction of flanks, mons pubis, or back rolls

If a hernia (e.g., umbilical or ventral) is detected, it can be repaired during the same procedure.

What Does the Tummy Tuck Procedure Involve?

Performed under IV Sedation by a board-certified anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist, the procedure typically takes about 3 hours and includes:

  1. Low horizontal incision just above the pubic area (carefully placed for minimal visibility)

  2. Tightening of abdominal muscles (muscle plication)

  3. Removal of excess skin and fat

  4. Repositioning of the belly button (umbilical transposition)

  5. Optional liposuction of flanks, mons pubis, or back rolls

If a hernia (e.g., umbilical or ventral) is detected, it can be repaired during the same procedure.

Preparing for Your Surgery

To ensure a safe experience:

  • Stop smoking 4–8 weeks before and after surgery

  • Discontinue NSAIDs (aspirin, ibuprofen) 2 weeks before and 1 week after

  • Complete routine blood work and possibly an EKG if over 50

  • Arrange for someone to stay with you the first night post-op

Dr. Thomassen will provide a detailed pre-operative checklist tailored to your health and lifestyle.

Recovery & Results

  • Same-day discharge with 1–2 day post-op follow-up

  • Use of compression garments or abdominal binders for 4 weeks

  • Walking slightly hunched over for the first week is recommended

  • Most patients return to normal activities within 2–3 weeks

  • Final results become visible as swelling subsides over several months

Patients see a dramatic improvement in their abdominal contour, with flatter, firmer, and more youthful results.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction

Some patients may benefit more from liposuction alone, particularly if:

  • They have good skin tone and elasticity

  • Muscle wall is intact

  • They have localized fat but no significant skin excess

Dr. Thomassen will help determine which procedure — or combination — is most effective for your anatomy and goals.

Combined Procedures: Tummy Tuck and Breast Lift

Many women choose to combine a tummy tuck with a breast lift or liposuction, especially after pregnancy or weight loss. This combination, sometimes called a “Mommy Makeover,” can restore multiple areas of the body in a single procedure.

Schedule a Tummy Tuck Consultation in Fort Lauderdale

If you're considering a tummy tuck in Fort Lauderdale, contact Thomassen Plastic Surgery today to schedule your private consultation. Dr. John Thomassen is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in body contouring and abdominoplasty procedures.

Let us help you restore your confidence and body shape with proven surgical results.

Book an appointment online today!

Additional Resources

Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tucks

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

If you’re considering plastic surgery, choosing the right plastic surgeon could not be more important. Dr. John Michael Thomassen has the training, experience, and caring to provide you with excellent care. We invite you to have a consultation about the procedure you need.