Is a Tummy Tuck painful?

Your tummy tuck surgery is performed under anesthesia, ensuring you won’t feel any pain during the procedure itself. Afterward, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, with the most intense pain typically occurring within the first week. To help manage this, Dr. Golger will prescribe medication to reduce pain and swelling and will provide guidance on effective pain relief strategies to support a smoother, more comfortable recovery.

How many appointments will I need?

Your first follow-up appointment will typically be scheduled about one week after your surgery. After that, you can expect at least one or two additional visits—commonly around six weeks and then again at three months post-op—during which progress photos will be taken to document your healing and results. Dr. Golger will guide you on the appropriate

How long until I see my Tummy Tuck results?

Recovery experiences vary, but most patients start to see their tummy tuck’s final results within two to three months. It’s important to allow your body ample time to heal fully before expecting the complete transformation. While gentle exercise may be resumed around six weeks post-surgery, we strongly recommend waiting for Dr. Golger’s clearance before returning to your regular fitness or weight loss routine to ensure safe, effective healing.

Can I Combine a Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures?

Yes, many Scottsdale patients opt to combine a tummy tuck with other procedures, such as liposuction , breast augmentation , or body lifts , for more comprehensive body contouring. This approach can enhance overall proportions, reduce recovery time, and deliver more dramatic, balanced results.

What Are the Risks Associated with Tummy Tuck?

Although tummy tuck surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Golger, there are some potential risks associated with the procedure itself. These may include: Complications related to anesthesia Uneven or asymmetrical results Bleeding during or after surgery Blood clots or issues affecting the heart and lungs Fat tissue deep beneath the skin is dying (fat necrosis) Fluid buildup under the skin (seroma) Infection at the surgical site Changes in skin sensation, including numbness Ongoing pain after surgery Delayed or poor wound healing The need for additional corrective surgery Return of loose skin over time Skin discoloration or prolonged swelling Skin tissue loss Results that do not meet aesthetic expectations Unfavorable scarring If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms following your surgery, please contact our clinic promptly for evaluation and care.

Does Tummy Tuck Surgery Remove Excess Skin?

A standard tummy tuck typically involves removing loose skin and excess fat from the abdominal area, resulting in a visibly tighter and smoother appearance. This procedure also tightens stretched or separated abdominal muscles to restore a firmer core. In many cases, a full tummy tuck can reduce or eliminate stretch marks and excess skin located below the belly button. However, it’s important to understand that a tummy tuck is limited to the lower abdomen and will not address stretch marks or excess fat outside this specific region.

Are Tummy Tuck Patients Able to Keep a Stable Weight After Their Procedure?

Following a tummy tuck, the excess skin is permanently removed, helping to achieve a more sculpted abdominal profile that aligns with your aesthetic goals. While your body will continue to recover and adapt to its new shape in the weeks and months after surgery, sustaining these results relies heavily on maintaining a nutritious diet and regular physical activity. Embracing healthy lifestyle choices is essential to ensuring your surgical enhancements last well into the future.

What Happens if You Experience Weight Gain After a Tummy Tuck?

We highly recommend that tummy tuck patients continue to follow a healthy diet and lifestyle after their procedure. While many have already made great strides in weight loss, the tummy tuck enhances results by tightening stretched muscles and removing sagging skin in both the upper and lower abdomen, while also refining the appearance of the belly button for a smoother contour. If you experience weight gain after surgery and notice new loose skin, your surgeon may advise adopting a balanced diet to control your weight. Additional treatments, such as liposuction , might be an option in some cases. If the abdominal muscles separate again, your surgeon could recommend a mini or extended tummy tuck, depending on the situation, and revision surgery may sometimes be needed to preserve or improve your results.

Can I Get a Breast Lift and Tummy Tuck at the Same Time?

Tummy tucks are often paired with aesthetic breast surgery. This is known as a mommy makeover and addresses multiple areas of the body, resulting in an overall body transformation. A mommy makeover typically consists of a tummy tuck, liposuction, and a breast augmentation, lift, or reduction.

Do Tummy Tucks Cause Blood Clots?

Tummy tuck surgery is generally a safe and effective procedure for body contouring. Although the risk of blood clots is very rare, it remains a possible complication. During your consultation, Dr. Golger will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your overall health, current medications, and surgical history to identify any factors that might increase your risk. Together, you’ll create a customized plan to minimize risks and ensure your safety throughout the surgical process.

Where is the Incision for a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck incision is typically made along the pubic hairline, allowing the scar to remain hidden when wearing swimsuits or low-rise pants. This strategic placement helps keep the scar discreet and easily concealed by everyday clothing. After surgery, a surgical dressing is applied to support proper healing and protect the incision site.

What is an Abdominal Binder?

An abdominal binder is a compression garment that encircles the abdomen and provides support. It is sometimes recommended following tummy tuck surgery.

What is a Circumferential Abdominoplasty?

A circumferential tummy tuck is often used for a massive transformation. This procedure addresses the abdomen, buttocks, lower back, and hips.

What If I Get Pregnant After a Tummy Tuck?

Pregnancy after a tummy tuck is generally safe. While surgeons typically advise waiting until you’ve completed your family before undergoing the procedure, many patients do become pregnant afterward without complications. If you’re planning to have children in the future, it’s important to talk openly with your surgeon so they can help you understand how pregnancy may affect your results and guide you on the best timing for surgery.

How Do I Find the Best Tummy Tuck Plastic Surgeon Near Me in Scottsdale?

Finding the right tummy tuck surgeon is essential for safe and successful results. Seek a board-certified plastic surgeon with specialized training in body contouring, and carefully review their experience through before-and-after photos and patient testimonials. Confirm their credentials with reputable boards such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons. Personalized care is equally important—choose a surgeon who listens attentively, addresses your concerns, and customizes treatment to your needs. Additionally, ensure the procedure is performed in an accredited surgical facility that adheres to strict safety protocols and utilizes advanced technology. Dr. Golger and Plastic Surgery Scottsdale meet all these standards, providing expert care and high patient satisfaction. Scheduling a consultation is the best step to see if he’s the right fit for your tummy tuck journey.

Best Tummy Tuck In Scottsdale, AZ | Plastic Surgery Scottsdale

Introduction to Tummy Tuck

Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise is essential for a healthy, toned physique. Yet, many struggle with stubborn abdominal issues like weakened muscles and excess abdominal skin, often caused by pregnancy or significant weight changes. Timing a tummy tuck is especially important for women planning future pregnancies, as it can affect results. For Scottsdale patients seeking a solution, Dr. Alexander Golger offers expert tummy tuck surgery to enhance abdominal contours and restore confidence. Selecting a skilled surgeon is crucial for ensuring safety and achieving optimal outcomes. Read on to learn more about this transformative procedure.

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Mini-Tummy Tuck

Often referred to as a “short scar” tummy tuck, a mini abdominoplasty focuses on removing excess skin and fat below the belly button. This procedure features a smaller incision and usually does not require repositioning the navel.

Ideal for refining the lower abdomen, the mini-tummy tuck creates a smoother, more toned appearance in that area. However, it may not be suitable for those who need muscle repair or have excess skin and stretch marks above the belly button. In such cases, a full tummy tuck—which tightens skin and muscles both above and below the navel—is a better choice for optimal results.

What is Tummy Tuck?

A full tummy tuck, medically known as an abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to reshape and tone the abdominal area by removing excess fat and skin, and tightening the abdominal muscles. Abdominoplasty procedures are specialized and customizable surgical options, with various types available to address individual needs, including skin laxity and muscle separation. This body contouring surgical procedure helps repair stretched abdominal muscles to create a flatter, more defined midsection, enhancing your overall silhouette.

In addition to improving appearance, an abdominoplasty can also repair weakened or separated abdominal muscles, resulting in a firmer and smoother abdominal profile. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience a protruding abdomen even at a healthy weight. This can be caused by several factors, including:

Aging
Heredity
Pregnancy
Previous surgeries
Significant fluctuations in weight

We recommend that patients reach or come close to their ideal weight before undergoing a tummy tuck, as the procedure is not intended for weight loss. An abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure but rather a body contouring surgical procedure for those who have already achieved a stable weight. Instead, it’s an outpatient cosmetic enhancement focused on refining your shape. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and regular exercise, will help you sustain your results and support long-term success.

Drainless Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale

A drainless tummy tuck utilizes a modified technique to eliminate the need for drains during recovery. Traditional tummy tucks often require drains to prevent fluid buildup, but these can be uncomfortable and need frequent emptying.

Dr. Golger employs internal quilting sutures that secure the abdominal fat and muscle layers, removing the need for drains. These sutures dissolve naturally as the tissues heal. This approach yields a smoother and more comfortable recovery, potentially reducing downtime and enabling you to resume normal activities sooner. While post-op visits remain essential, you won’t need to return for drain removal.

What Sets Dr. Golger Apart as the Premier Tummy Tuck Practice in Scottsdale?

Dr. Alexander Golger is renowned for his exceptional skill, compassionate care, and meticulous attention to detail. With over 15 years of experience performing abdominoplasty and other body contouring surgeries, as well as other plastic surgery procedures, he has helped hundreds of patients achieve natural-looking, lasting results and comprehensive aesthetic goals.
Dr. Golger has consistently been recognized as one of the top plastic surgeons in Scottsdale and the broader Arizona area. Dr. Golger is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and The Aesthetic Society. demonstrating his ongoing commitment to upholding the highest standards in his field.
Dr. Golger earned his Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, one of Canada’s leading medical schools. He completed his plastic surgery residency at the prestigious University of Toronto’s Division of Plastic Surgery, where he received advanced training in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
He is board-certified by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and holds Fellowship status with the Royal College (FRCS). These certifications are marks of excellence and a testament to his rigorous education, training, and expertise.
Dr. Golger’s innovative use of drainless tummy tuck techniques helps minimize patient discomfort and speed up recovery times. His surgical approach emphasizes minimal scarring and natural contouring to ensure patients achieve a smooth, toned abdominal profile that complements their overall body shape.

Tummy Tuck Quick Facts

Surgery Time: 2 to 5 hours, depending on the extent of the procedure
Price: Approximately $8,000 to $15,000+ (For an accurate cost, please inquire during your consultation).
Recovery: Most patients return to light activities within 7 to 10 days; full recovery typically takes 6 weeks
Results: Long-lasting, with visible improvement in abdominal tone, contour, and muscle strength usually seen within 2-3 months

What are the Benefits of Tummy Tuck Surgery?

Many Scottsdale abdominoplasty patients enjoy a wide range of benefits that extend well beyond improved abdominal appearance. While achieving a flatter, more toned midsection is often the primary goal, the procedure can also enhance body contours, boost self-confidence, and remove stubborn fat and excess skin.

Additional benefits include improved posture and core strength, increased flexibility, and enhanced mobility. A tummy tuck may reduce the risk of certain medical issues, provide better support for vigorous physical activity, and motivate patients to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The surgery also strengthens abdominal muscles, helping to prevent hernias, and can offer relief from stress urinary incontinence—especially after childbirth—while improving overall control and stability. These combined outcomes contribute to both physical health and emotional well-being, making tummy tuck surgery a truly transformative option for many patients.

Who Are The Best Candidates For Tummy Tuck?

You may be a strong candidate for an abdominoplasty in Scottsdale if you meet the following criteria:

You’re in good overall health
You maintain a stable and healthy weight
You do not smoke
You’re consistently unhappy with the appearance of your abdominal area
You have realistic expectations about the results of the procedure
You’ve struggled to reduce abdominal fat or extra skin through diet and exercise alone
You have experienced significant weight loss and are left with loose skin that does not respond to other methods

What’s the First Step?

If you’re considering a tummy tuck in Scottsdale, the first step is to schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Golger. To prepare, reflect on your goals and desired outcomes.

During the consultation, Dr. Golger will evaluate your physical condition, review your medical history, and discuss medications and lifestyle factors. He’ll listen closely to your aesthetic goals and recommend the best surgical approach. Photos may be taken to track your progress.

From this, a personalized treatment plan will be created. If you proceed, our Patient Coordinator will assist with scheduling and provide pre-operative instructions. You may need to adjust medications and are strongly advised to stop smoking well before surgery to support optimal healing.

How Do I Prepare for My Tummy Tuck?

Proper preparation is key to a successful tummy tuck surgery and smooth recovery. Before your procedure, you should:

Stop Smoking: Quit smoking at least 4-6 weeks prior to surgery to enhance healing and reduce complications
Medication Review: Avoid blood-thinning medications like aspirin or certain supplements that increase bleeding risk, as advised by Dr. Golger
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Focus on nutritious foods and stay well-hydrated to prepare your body for surgery.
Arrange Transportation and Help: Plan for someone to drive you home after surgery and assist you during the first few days of recovery.
Follow Pre-Op Instructions: Carefully follow any fasting or hygiene protocols given during your preoperative appointment.

What to Expect on the Day of a Tummy Tuck Procedure

On the day of your tummy tuck, Dr. Golger and his skilled surgical team will ensure your procedure goes smoothly and safely. After administering anesthesia—either general or intravenous sedation, based on your consultation—Dr. Golger begins with an incision just above the pubic area.

Through this incision, excess fat and skin from the lower and mid-abdomen are removed. The skin is lifted to expose the abdominal muscles, which are then tightened and sutured to create a firmer, more defined waistline. The skin is pulled down, trimmed, and a new opening for the belly button is created and carefully repositioned for a natural look.

Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures, dressings are applied, and a small drainage tube may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup. The surgery typically lasts two to five hours, depending on your individual needs.

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Tummy Tuck Recovery

After your tummy tuck surgery, you’ll be closely monitored in our recovery area before most patients are discharged the same day to heal at home. An overnight stay may be recommended in some cases. Be sure to arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home.

You’ll wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support healing, and small surgical drains may be placed to remove excess fluid. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal during the first few days and can be managed with prescribed pain medication. Those who have hanging skin removed often experience added relief as healing progresses.

Full recovery typically takes about six weeks, with most patients returning to work and engaging in light activities within 7 to 10 days after the procedure. Women planning future pregnancies should discuss timing, as it can affect surgical outcomes. Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for several weeks to ensure proper healing.

Our Patient Coordinator will provide detailed post-operative care instructions, including incision care and drain management. Drains are typically removed a few days after surgery, depending on your progress.

5 Tips for Recovery

Wear Your Compression Garment: Wear the provided abdominal binder consistently to reduce swelling and support healing.
Rest and Gradually Increase Activity: Avoid strenuous exercise for at least 6 weeks, but incorporate gentle walking early to improve circulation.
Keep Incisions Clean and Dry: Follow all wound care instructions to prevent infection and promote optimal healing.
Manage Pain and Swelling: Take prescribed medications as directed and use cold compresses to ease discomfort.
Attend All Follow-up Visits: Keep your appointments with Dr. Golger to monitor progress and address any concerns promptly.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in Scottsdale, AZ?

Proper preparation is key to a successful tummy tuck surgery and smooth recovery. Before your procedure, you should:

The cost of a tummy tuck in Scottsdale ranges from $8,000 to $15,000 and varies depending on each patient’s individual needs and the specifics of the procedure. After you consult with Dr. Golger, our patient coordinator will provide a detailed estimate outlining all associated fees.

For your convenience, financing options may be available to help make the surgery more affordable.

Why Choose Dr. Golger?

Plastic Surgery Scottsdale is led by Dr. Alexander Golger, B.Ed., MD, FRCS(C), a board-certified, highly skilled Toronto plastic surgeon with extensive advanced training at prestigious universities and hospitals. He is a certified recipient of the Fellowship of the Royal Colleges of Surgeons (FRCS), an honor bestowed only on doctors who have completed the organization’s stringent educational and examination requirements. After earning his Doctor of Medicine degree from McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, he then completed a five-year medical residency at the highly recognized Division of Plastic Surgery at the University of Toronto. He is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS), the Ontario Medical Association (OMA), the Canadian Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (CSAPS), and the Canadian Medical Association (CMA)

Patient testimonials are available to showcase Dr. Golger’s expertise and patient satisfaction.

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Schedule Your Consultation

If you’ve been striving for a firmer, more sculpted abdomen but haven’t seen the results you want through diet and exercise alone, a tummy tuck in Scottsdale might be the solution you’ve been looking for. To book a consultation with Dr. Golger, please use our consultation request form to schedule your appointment today.

Dr. Golger has multiple blog resources that discuss other tummy tuck topics. See below:

Dr. Golger Breaks Down the Difference Between Tummy Tuck & Liposuction

Tummy Tuck FAQs

Your procedure questions answered.

Your tummy tuck surgery is performed under anesthesia, ensuring you won’t feel any pain during the procedure itself. Afterward, it’s normal to experience some discomfort, with the most intense pain typically occurring within the first week. To help manage this, Dr. Golger will prescribe medication to reduce pain and swelling and will provide guidance on effective pain relief strategies to support a smoother, more comfortable recovery.
Your first follow-up appointment will typically be scheduled about one week after your surgery. After that, you can expect at least one or two additional visits—commonly around six weeks and then again at three months post-op—during which progress photos will be taken to document your healing and results. Dr. Golger will guide you on the appropriate
Recovery experiences vary, but most patients start to see their tummy tuck’s final results within two to three months. It’s important to allow your body ample time to heal fully before expecting the complete transformation. While gentle exercise may be resumed around six weeks post-surgery, we strongly recommend waiting for Dr. Golger’s clearance before returning to your regular fitness or weight loss routine to ensure safe, effective healing.
Although tummy tuck surgery is generally safe when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon like Dr. Golger, there are some potential risks associated with the procedure itself. These may include:
- Complications related to anesthesia
- Uneven or asymmetrical results
- Bleeding during or after surgery
- Blood clots or issues affecting the heart and lungs
- Fat tissue deep beneath the skin is dying (fat necrosis)
- Fluid buildup under the skin (seroma)
- Infection at the surgical site
- Changes in skin sensation, including numbness
- Ongoing pain after surgery
- Delayed or poor wound healing
- The need for additional corrective surgery
- Return of loose skin over time
- Skin discoloration or prolonged swelling
- Skin tissue loss
- Results that do not meet aesthetic expectations
- Unfavorable scarring
If you notice any unusual or persistent symptoms following your surgery, please contact our clinic promptly for evaluation and care.
A standard tummy tuck typically involves removing loose skin and excess fat from the abdominal area, resulting in a visibly tighter and smoother appearance. This procedure also tightens stretched or separated abdominal muscles to restore a firmer core. In many cases, a full tummy tuck can reduce or eliminate stretch marks and excess skin located below the belly button. However, it’s important to understand that a tummy tuck is limited to the lower abdomen and will not address stretch marks or excess fat outside this specific region.
Following a tummy tuck, the excess skin is permanently removed, helping to achieve a more sculpted abdominal profile that aligns with your aesthetic goals. While your body will continue to recover and adapt to its new shape in the weeks and months after surgery, sustaining these results relies heavily on maintaining a nutritious diet and regular physical activity. Embracing healthy lifestyle choices is essential to ensuring your surgical enhancements last well into the future.
We highly recommend that tummy tuck patients continue to follow a healthy diet and lifestyle after their procedure. While many have already made great strides in weight loss, the tummy tuck enhances results by tightening stretched muscles and removing sagging skin in both the upper and lower abdomen, while also refining the appearance of the belly button for a smoother contour. If you experience weight gain after surgery and notice new loose skin, your surgeon may advise adopting a balanced diet to control your weight. Additional treatments, such as liposuction, might be an option in some cases. If the abdominal muscles separate again, your surgeon could recommend a mini or extended tummy tuck, depending on the situation, and revision surgery may sometimes be needed to preserve or improve your results.
Tummy tuck surgery is generally a safe and effective procedure for body contouring. Although the risk of blood clots is very rare, it remains a possible complication. During your consultation, Dr. Golger will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your overall health, current medications, and surgical history to identify any factors that might increase your risk. Together, you’ll create a customized plan to minimize risks and ensure your safety throughout the surgical process.
A tummy tuck incision is typically made along the pubic hairline, allowing the scar to remain hidden when wearing swimsuits or low-rise pants. This strategic placement helps keep the scar discreet and easily concealed by everyday clothing. After surgery, a surgical dressing is applied to support proper healing and protect the incision site.
Pregnancy after a tummy tuck is generally safe. While surgeons typically advise waiting until you’ve completed your family before undergoing the procedure, many patients do become pregnant afterward without complications. If you’re planning to have children in the future, it’s important to talk openly with your surgeon so they can help you understand how pregnancy may affect your results and guide you on the best timing for surgery.
Finding the right tummy tuck surgeon is essential for safe and successful results. Seek a board-certified plastic surgeon with specialized training in body contouring, and carefully review their experience through before-and-after photos and patient testimonials. Confirm their credentials with reputable boards such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons. Personalized care is equally important—choose a surgeon who listens attentively, addresses your concerns, and customizes treatment to your needs. Additionally, ensure the procedure is performed in an accredited surgical facility that adheres to strict safety protocols and utilizes advanced technology. Dr. Golger and Plastic Surgery Scottsdale meet all these standards, providing expert care and high patient satisfaction. Scheduling a consultation is the best step to see if he’s the right fit for your tummy tuck journey.

Genuine and Talented

I had an abdominoplasty done by Dr Golger here almost 2 years ago and realized I never left a review. Everyday Im so thankful for the confidence its given me. Dr Golger is one of the most professional, genuine and talented doctors Ive encountered.

Extremely Happy

My experience with Dr. Golger, and his team was a dream! From the consultation to the post-op follow up appointments, they treated me with genuine warmth and care. I am extremely happy with my results, and the healing process was absolutely seamless.

Wonderful Staff

Dr golger is an amazing surgeon he knows what he is doing I went to him for a breast reduction and I couldn’t be much happier. Both Cathy & Josie are amazing as well. Really happy i came across Dr. golger and his wonderful staff.

Highly Recommend

I highly recommend avenue plastic surgery. I just had a breast reduction and I am extremely pleased! Everyone in the office was amazing at answering any questions I have had over the phone as well . Dr Golger made me feel so comfortable .

Phenomenal Surgeon!

Dr. Golger is a phenomenal surgeon!! I can't recommend him enough. He flawlessly performed my breast reduction and lift in June 2022 then performed my breast reconstruction immediately after having my cancer prevention mastectomy done.

Very Ethical

Very ethical Dr he was kind patient and understanding. He took his time to explain the procedure. I decided to go back to my original Dr and Dr Golger refunded my deposit without any issues as promised. I highly recommend Dr Golger. Thanks to Valerie for her exceptional customer service

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Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale