Key takeaways:
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I regularly meet patients who feel discouraged by abdominal changes that don’t respond to diet or exercise. Pregnancy, weight loss, and aging can all stretch the skin and weaken abdominal muscles in ways that the body simply can’t correct on its own. A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a powerful solution to restore a flatter, firmer midsection. If you’re researching a tummy tuck in Boston, MA, this guide answers the most common questions I hear from patients throughout Boston, Chelmsford, and surrounding Massachusetts communities..
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess abdominal skin and tighten weakened or separated muscles. Over time, the connective tissue holding the abdominal muscles together can stretch, leading to a protruding or soft midsection. During a tummy tuck, I repair these muscles and remove loose skin to create a smoother, more contoured abdomen. You can learn more about the procedure details on my dedicated tummy tuck page.
Good candidates for a tummy tuck are generally healthy, non-smoking adults who are close to their ideal weight but struggle with loose skin or muscle laxity. Many of my patients from Boston and Chelmsford seek this procedure after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or natural aging.
It’s important to note that a tummy tuck may not be recommended if you plan to have future pregnancies or undergo significant weight changes, as these can affect long-term results. During your consultation, I take time to evaluate your anatomy, medical history, and personal goals to ensure this procedure is appropriate for you.
A tummy tuck is designed to address:
This procedure is not intended for weight loss. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, abdominoplasty is best suited for body contouring once weight is stable.
Tummy tuck surgery is performed under general anesthesia to ensure comfort and safety. I create a low incision from hip to hip, carefully positioned to sit beneath underwear or swimwear. A second incision around the navel allows me to improve the contour and appearance of the belly button area by removing excess skin. The belly button will not be “moved”, but rather be brought out in the exact location through a new incision in the abdominal flap so that the appearance of the belly button looks more taught and youthful.
Once the muscles are repaired and excess skin is removed, the remaining skin is redraped smoothly. Every step of the procedure is performed with precision and attention to detail to achieve natural-looking results. All stitches are beneath the skin, so no sutures need to be removed afterwards.
Recovery is gradual and varies from patient to patient. Most individuals take one to two weeks off work, depending on activity level. You’ll wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support healing. Light walking is encouraged starting the day of surgery to promote healthy circulation.
Strenuous activity and heavy lifting are typically avoided for about six weeks. I schedule regular follow-up visits at my Chelmsford office to monitor healing and guide you through each stage of recovery.
Yes, a tummy tuck does result in a scar, but placement is carefully planned. The main incision is positioned low across the abdomen to be easily concealed. Over time, scars usually fade significantly with proper care, sun protection, and patience. I provide detailed scar-care guidance to help support optimal healing. Review our patients’ before-and-after tummy tuck gallery images.
With more than 25 years of experience and board certification, my approach focuses on natural-looking results that complement your body. I combine proven surgical techniques with individualized care to ensure my patients feel informed, supported, and confident throughout their journey. My team and I are firmly committed to your pre-operative education to prepare you and help you optimize your recovery and results. Postoperatively, we are there for you every step of the way. For these reasons, our patients from Boston, Chelmsford, and across Massachusetts trust our process from beginning to end and feel confident in their care. Learn more about my background on the About Dr. Eliopoulos page .
Scheduling a consultation is the first step toward feeling confident in your body again. During your visit, we’ll review your goals, evaluate your anatomy, and create a customized treatment plan tailored to you. Schedule your consultation here.
If you’re considering a tummy tuck in Boston, MA, I look forward to helping you explore your options with clarity, expertise, and care.
Plastic surgery isn’t just about people changing their look—it's about making you feel good about being you. Whether you need breast augmentation, a breast lift, liposuction or Botox, Dr. Dina Eliopoulos is here for you. For over 20 years, patients have sought out the care and results that Dr. Eliopoulos can create in her beautiful Chelmsford, Massachusetts office. The peace of mind that comes from a board-certified, residency- and fellowship-trained plastic surgeon is hard to parallel. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Eliopoulos today to experience the difference for yourself.
