At Pacific Plastic Surgery Group in Vancouver, a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a body contouring procedure designed to restore a smooth and toned abdomen. Many patients choose this surgery to reclaim their pre-pregnancy shape, refine their midsection after significant weight loss, or achieve a more sculpted figure. This procedure can address stretched skin, stubborn fat, and weakened abdominal muscles to create long-lasting and natural-looking results.
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying muscles for a firmer, flatter appearance. It is performed under general anesthesia and requires a few weeks of recovery. By targeting the midsection, abdominoplasty helps patients regain confidence in their body contours and enjoy improved comfort in clothing and everyday activities.
Dr. Janine Roller | MD, FRCSC
Cosmetic, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon | Female Plastic Surgeon, Vancouver
Board-certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Janine Roller of Pacific Plastic Surgery Group blends art and science with innovation and skill to provide her patients with impeccable results. She approaches each procedure from an artistic point of view, creating results that showcase the delicate balance between aesthetic beauty and medical precision.
In all aspects of her plastic surgery practice, Dr. Roller is dedicated to perfection and takes great pride in providing patients with results that make them feel better about their appearance. As a female plastic surgeon in British Columbia, Dr. Roller creates cosmetic transformations that genuinely look natural by fusing precisely applied medical knowledge with artistic intuition.
After obtaining a Bachelor’s degree with Honours from Simon Fraser University, Dr. Roller was accepted to the prestigious University of British Columbia Plastic and Reconstructive training program. She rose to the position of Chief Resident, and following graduation, underwent additional subspecialty training in Breast Surgery and Microsurgery at the University of Manitoba, before returning back home to Vancouver. Dr. Roller is a Board-Certified Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada, with a sub-specialty training in Plastic Surgery. She specializes in both breast surgery and body contouring. She is an active member of the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Canadian Medical Association, and a member of the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.
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An ideal tummy tuck candidate is someone who maintains a stable weight but struggles with loose skin or muscle separation that diet and exercise cannot correct. These concerns often result from pregnancy, aging, or major weight loss. Candidates should be in good overall health, refrain from smoking for several weeks before and after surgery, and have realistic expectations for the results of their treatment. A consultation allows patients to receive a fully customized surgical plan tailored to their body type and aesthetic goals.
Tummy Tuck Procedure
A tummy tuck is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately two to three hours. During surgery, Dr Roller makes an incision along the lower abdomen, usually from hip to hip, and may create a second incision around the belly button. She then tightens the abdominal muscles, removes excess skin and fat, and repositions the remaining tissue to create a more toned silhouette. Sutures and a compression garment help support healing and minimize swelling. Some patients choose to combine their tummy tuck with complementary procedures such as liposuction or breast surgery for enhanced results and balanced proportions.
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After surgery, patients immediately notice a flatter abdominal contour, with continued improvements as swelling subsides. Initial discomfort, bruising, and tightness are normal and generally diminish over the first few weeks. Most individuals take about two weeks off from work and wear a supportive compression garment for approximately six weeks. Light walking is encouraged early in recovery, but strenuous exercise should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon.
Tummy Tuck Frequently Asked Questions
What is a tummy tuck and who is a good candidate?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the abdominal muscles. Good candidates are individuals with loose skin, stretch marks, or weakened abdominal muscles due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging.
What will the scar be like?
The scar is a low transverse scar that runs from hip to hip, examples of which can be seen in our abdominoplasty gallery. Depending on individual preference (style of underwear worn regularly) the scar can be sited higher or lower in the groin region. There is also a circumferential scar around the umbilicus (belly-button) as in most abdominoplasties this has to be re-sited.
Do I have a drain after a tummy-tuck?
Use of a drain is dependent on the treating surgeon, and based on the nature of your specific abdominoplasty. In some occasions, a “No Drain Abdominoplasty: is possible, while in other settings, one or two drains may be used that stay in for 3-5 days post-operatively, again depending on the individual case.
How much pain will I have after a tummy tuck?
Pain relief:rnPain is controlled and limited by providing analgesia pre-operatively, intraoperatively and post-operatively. In close conjunction with our anesthesiologist, our surgeons will use a combination of local anesthetics, intravenous and oral analgesics to make you as comfortable as possible.rnrnIn spite of this some patients will experience discomfort after a tummy tuck, more so in the first few days after surgery, settling rapidly thereafter. The severity of pain experienced varies between individuals as well as the specifics of the surgical technique. For example, muscle tightening during the tummy tuck procedure (if required) is associated with greater post-operative discomfort.rnrnPre-operatively our surgeons will provide prescriptions for pain relief medication and will check-in with you post-operatively to tailor your analgesia requirements and minimize discomfort.rnrnSome patients who are concerned about their post surgical pain control, a Pain Pump can be used to minimize discomfort. Discuss this with your treating surgeon.rnrnNausea and sickness:rnSome people find that the anesthetic medication used during surgery can cause them to feel nauseous. You can try taking ginger drinks or Gravol tablets from the pharmacy, but if it persists a prescription for stronger anti-sickness medication can be provided. Even if you are feeling sick it is important to keep taking fluids to prevent dehydration and constipation.
How long is the recovery period for a tummy tuck?
Initial recovery usually takes 2 to 4 weeks. Patients should avoid strenuous activities for at least 6 weeks and wear compression garments to aid healing. Full recovery, including the fading of scars and complete healing of the muscles, can take several months.rnrnShowering and bathing:rnStrip-washing can begin the day after surgery as your dressings are water-resistant. Showering and bathing are discouraged until the first post-operative visit (Typically 5-10 days post-op). After this visit the majority of patients can begin showering if our surgeon is happy with your healing.rnrnMovement and exercise:rnThe first week you will need to rest frequently. Additionally, you should also mobilize (keeping the hips flexed, see below) frequently, every 1-2 hours during waking hours to minimize the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis.rnrnEvery 2-3 hours take deep breaths to expand your lungs. Hold your incision while coughing.rnrnAvoid picking anything up greater than 5 lbs. for the first week.rnrnYou will not be able to stand up straight for the first week. It will be normal to walk at a 30-degree angle bent at the hips. Your back may become sore in this position. You can try to stand up straight after the first week as tolerated.rnrnVery light regular daily activities are allowed by day 2 after surgery, but these may be sore initially. Depending on the recovery and the first post-operative visit, you can increase your activity level after the first 2 weeks. You should not do any activity that increases your heart rate above 120 beats per minute for the first 4 weeks. It is important to ‘listen’ to your body: if an activity hurts or causes much discomfort then wait longer. Do not participate in any strenuous activity until 6 weeks after your surgery. This includes: heavy lifting/weight lifting, extreme stretching exercises such as yoga, strenuous sporting activitiesrnrnDriving:rnYou must not drive for 48 hours after a general anesthetic. Driving can typically begin again 7-10 days post-surgery, depending on comfort levels.rnrnSleeping:rnFor the first week post-surgery sleep on your back with your head elevated and knees bent with a pillow underneath them. This will keep the tension off your abdomen. Do not sleep on your side.rnrnWork:rnReturn to work depends very much on the individual and the type of work activity you perform. Most individuals can return to work in some capacity 2-4 weeks post surgery, but varies depending on individual progress and recovery and type of work.rnrnFollow-up:rnFollow-up is tailored to the individual case but typically occurs, 1-2 weeks post-surgery, 4-6 weeks, and 3-6 months post surgery.
Will the results last?
Yes, typically the results from this procedure will last a long time, as long as your weight remains stable. Subsequent pregnancies or large fluctuations in weight are likely to have an adverse effect on your long-term cosmetic outcome.
Will a tummy tuck help my stretch marks?
Yes, a tummy tuck will enable the majority if not all of the stretch marks over the lower abdomen to be removed. Our surgeons will be able to assess your individual case and advise you on the likely outcome during your consultation.
Do I need to have a tummy tuck, or can I just have liposuction?
Liposuction helps to remove excess fat from underneath the skin and this can be very effective for some individuals. However, many people (for example those who have experienced significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies) have excess loose skin that can only be removed surgically. Whilst liposuction alone works very well for some individuals, it is not a suitable substitute for a tummy tuck in others. Our surgeon’s assessment will help to determine which procedure(s) are indicated in your particular case.
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
Yes, pregnancy is still possible after a tummy tuck and there are no additional risks as a result. Pregnancies after a tummy tuck will however, almost certainly have a detrimental effect on the cosmetic appearance. Women who plan on possibly becoming pregnant in future are sometimes good candidates for liposuction alone.
Will I need to wear a compression garment after surgery?
Yes, you will be provided with a compression garment after your surgery that you must wear for 6 weeks. It is essential that you wear this all the time for 6 weeks for the optimal cosmetic outcome. Failure to wear the garment will result in sub-par aesthetics outcomes.
What is the difference between a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck?
A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdomen, from the lower ribcage to the pubic area, and involves tightening of the abdominal muscles. A mini tummy tuck targets only the lower abdomen below the belly button and is suitable for patients with a smaller amount of excess skin or fat.
What are the potential risks and complications of a tummy tuck?
Risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, fluid accumulation (seroma), and blood clots. Some patients may also experience numbness or tightness in the abdominal area. These risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced surgeon and following post-operative instructions.
Will a tummy tuck help with weight loss?
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure. It is designed to contour and flatten the abdomen by removing excess skin and fat, but it is not a substitute for weight loss. Maintaining a stable weight before and after the procedure is essential for long-lasting results.
If you are interested in surgery, schedule a tummy tuck consultation at Pacific Plastic Surgery in Vancouver. Contact Pacific Plastic Surgery today by completing the online contact form to book your consultation and learn how a tummy tuck can help you feel more confident in your body.
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