Tummy Tuck in
Scottsdale, AZ

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Tummy tuck surgery in Scottsdale, Phoenix & Paradise Valley, performed by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Mark Gruszynski.

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Scottsdale Tummy Tuck Specialist · Board Certified Plastic Surgeon · Thousands of Procedures · Scottsdale Tummy Tuck Specialist · Board Certified Plastic Surgeon · Thousands of Procedures ·

Do You Want a Flatter Stomach?

If you’ve been eating well, exercising regularly, and maintaining a stable weight but still notice loose skin, bulging, or a persistent belly pouch, you might want to consider a tummy tuck.

For some patients, this issue affects more than just appearance. Skin folds can rub together and cause irritation, moisture buildup, or rashes.

Core weakness can impact posture and even contribute to lower back pain. Clothes may not fit comfortably, and confidence can be affected at the gym, at the beach, or in everyday situations.

A tummy tuck is designed to correct these concerns.

By removing excess skin, repairing the abdominal wall, and sculpting a smoother waistline, abdominoplasty helps patients restore a midsection that looks toned, balanced, and in proportion with the rest of the body.

What to Know About Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a body contouring plastic surgery procedure that removes loose skin and stubborn fat from the abdomen while tightening the abdominal muscles¹.

This comprehensive approach, chosen by those across the Phoenix metro area, restores a firmer, flatter stomach and improves overall body balance.

During surgery, Dr. Mark repairs the abdominal wall by bringing separated muscles back together with sutures. Excess skin is carefully trimmed away, and the remaining skin is smoothed over the new, tightened foundation.

Our Scottsdale tummy tuck experts will help you decide whether this procedure is the right choice for you.

Schedule your tummy tuck consultation at our Scottsdale plastic surgery office today.

Schedule Your Visit

Benefits of a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck addresses the root causes of abdominal concerns while delivering lasting improvements to your body contour. Here’s what a tummy tuck can offer you:

Removes Excess Fat and Skin: Eliminates loose, sagging skin and resistant fat for a smooth abdominal contour.
Tightens Abdominal Muscles: Repairs stretched or separated muscles to strengthen your core and improve posture.
Improves Clothing Fit: Helps clothes sit more comfortably and naturally at the waist.
Boosts Confidence: Restores a flatter profile so you can feel more comfortable in fitted styles and swimwear.
Long-Term Results: With a stable weight, results last for many years, making it a reliable option for lasting contour improvement.

Ideal Candidates
For a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is not a weight-loss procedure but a body contouring surgery. The best candidates are those who have:

Excess Abdominal Skin or Fat

Loose skin, stubborn fat deposits, or both that do not improve with diet or exercise.

Separated Abdominal Muscles

Diastasis recti or weakened core muscles that affect both appearance and stability.

Stable Weight

Maintained a steady weight for at least six months and committed to long-term weight management.

Clear Goals

Understand the procedure’s capabilities and have realistic expectations for results.

Commitment to Recovery

Willing to follow post-op instructions and take the time needed for proper healing.

For people ready to address persistent abdominal concerns, a tummy tuck can create lasting improvements and a more defined midsection.

Schedule your tummy tuck consultation and learn if you are a candidate.

Let’s Discuss Your Options

Tummy Tuck Consultation at Our Scottsdale Office

Your consultation is a one-on-one appointment where Dr. Mark, a leading provider of surgical treatments for patients in Phoenix and Scottsdale, evaluates your abdomen, reviews your health history, and listens to your concerns.

You’ll discuss whether a full tummy tuck, mini tuck, or extended approach best matches your goals and whether adding liposuction or a more comprehensive mommy makeover could enhance the final shape.

He will explain the procedure in detail, outline what recovery looks like, and answer questions about compression garments, downtime, and returning to normal activities.

You will leave with a customized treatment plan designed to help you move forward with confidence.

How to Prepare for Your Tummy Tuck

Proper preparation helps make surgery and recovery as smooth as possible. Common steps include:

Skip Lotions and Self-Tanners

Avoid self-tanners, firming creams, or lotions on the abdomen for at least three days before surgery.

Check Compression Garment

Try it on before surgery to confirm it fits well and does not cause folds or creasing.

Stop Nicotine Use

Quit all smoking, vaping, and nicotine products at least four weeks before and after surgery to support healthy healing.

Shave if Directed

If instructed, gently shave the treatment area to reduce infection risk and allow better skin prep.

Plan for Recovery Time

Clear your schedule for 10–14 days to allow for proper rest and healing.

Maintain a Stable Weight

Stay close to your goal weight for several months before surgery so your results stay consistent.

When you’re ready, you’ll go into surgery feeling more prepared as you follow these recommendations.

Take the Next Step

What are the Steps of a Tummy Tuck Procedure?

Tummy tuck surgery typically takes two to four hours, depending on the amount of correction needed. Here’s how it usually goes:

You’ll receive general anesthesia administered by our anesthesiologist to ensure complete comfort throughout the procedure. Your vital signs are monitored continuously while you sleep peacefully during surgery. The anesthesia team maintains optimal conditions for your safety.

Dr. Mark creates a horizontal incision along the lower abdomen, typically from hip to hip, positioned to remain hidden beneath underwear or swimwear. The incision length depends on the amount of excess skin requiring removal.

Separated or weakened abdominal muscles are identified and repaired using permanent sutures to create a strong, unified muscle wall. This step addresses diastasis recti and restores core strength and definition. The muscle repair is crucial to achieve the flat abdominal contour that patients are looking for from their tummy tuck procedure.

Excess skin and fat are carefully removed to create a smooth contour that complements your proportions. Dr. Mark sculpts the remaining tissue to achieve optimal definition and symmetry.

When necessary, the belly button is repositioned through a new opening in the tightened skin. This step maintains proper placement so the results look natural.

The incision is closed in layers using advanced suturing techniques to minimize scarring and support proper healing. Surgical drains may be placed temporarily to prevent fluid accumulation during early recovery. A compression garment is applied to support the newly contoured tissues and to reduce swelling throughout the healing process.

Full vs. Mini vs. Extended Tummy Tuck

We offer several variations of tuck procedures, depending on how much correction is needed.

Full Tummy Tuck

A full tummy tuck is the most common approach. It removes excess skin and fat from both the upper and lower abdomen, tightens the abdominal wall, and may include repositioning the belly button. This option is ideal for women with significant skin laxity or muscle separation².

Mini Tummy Tuck

A mini tummy tuck targets only the lower abdomen, below the belly button. It’s best for women who have a small amount of loose skin or minor bulging in that specific area, and typically involves a shorter incision and quicker recovery. The belly button is not repositioned during a mini tuck.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck is recommended for women who have loose skin that extends to the flanks or lower back. This technique includes a longer incision to allow for broader contouring across the waistline. It’s often considered after major weight loss when more skin needs to be removed for a smooth, natural finish.

Dr. Mark will explain which technique fits your goals during your consultation.

Plan Your Procedure

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction

Tummy tuck is usually confused with liposuction, which makes it hard for patients to understand what they need. Here are the main differences:

Liposuction

Liposuction is a fat-removal procedure that uses a thin cannula to suction out fat through small incisions. It is best for patients with good skin elasticity who do not need muscle tightening or skin removal.

Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck removes loose skin, repairs the abdominal wall, and may include liposuction for additional contouring. It is ideal for patients who need both skin tightening and muscle repair.

The Difference

Liposuction is a good option for patients who simply need fat removal, while a tummy tuck is more comprehensive. For patients with excess skin or weakened muscles, liposuction alone may not achieve the desired results.

Dr. Mark will also walk you through other solutions that may fit your goals, such as panniculectomy surgery if you have gone through massive weight loss.

Tummy Tuck Recovery Timeline

Healing after a tummy tuck happens in stages, and knowing what to expect can make the process feel more manageable.

Day 1

On the first day, you’ll return home in a compression garment. Some tightness, soreness, and swelling are expected. Rest with your upper body elevated.

Day 3

During the third day, swelling may increase slightly, but discomfort often begins to improve. Most women remain in a bent-over position when walking during this time.

Day 7

By the end of the first week, many patients feel ready to return to light activity or desk work. Drains may be removed if placed during surgery.

Week 2

At the 2-week mark, you can begin walking more upright, and swelling should begin to decrease. Any bruising will start to fade. You will be able to do light walks if directed by Dr. Mark.

Months 1-3

As the core strengthens and swelling continues to resolve, you’ll start to see your new shape take form over the first few months. You will be instructed if you can start doing light exercise, avoiding core workouts.

Month 4-6

Over time, the skin continues to settle, scars fade, and the final results become fully visible. You’ll notice lasting changes in contour and symmetry.

Dr. Mark’s Recovery Tips

Wear your compression garment as advised
Avoid strenuous activity or lifting until cleared
Keep incisions clean and dry
Sleep on your back with support under your knees
Follow all post-op instructions carefully

Why Choose
Dr. Mark Gruszynski

Dr. Mark Gruszynski is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon proudly serving patients from Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Paradise Valley. He has extensive experience performing tummy tuck and other body lift procedures. Trained at UCLA, one of the country’s most respected surgical programs, he brings years of expertise to every case.

He customizes each tummy tuck procedure to the patient’s anatomy, as he focuses on muscle tightening, scar placement, and skin redraping to create natural-looking results. His goal is to help patients achieve balance and proportion without overcorrection.

Beyond his surgical skill, he is known for his approachable, patient-centered care. He takes time to explain the surgery, answer questions, and guide patients through preparation and recovery.

Meet Our Tummy Tuck Expert

Frequently Asked
Questions About Tummy Tuck

Tummy tuck results are considered permanent because the excess skin and fat are surgically removed and cannot return. However, significant weight gain, pregnancy, or aging can affect your results over time. Maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle to help preserve your improved abdominal contour for many years.

You will have a scar along your lower abdomen, but Dr. Mark places incisions strategically to be hidden beneath most underwear and swimwear. Scars typically fade significantly over 12-18 months and can be further improved with proper care and sun protection. Most patients find the dramatic improvement in their abdominal contour well worth the trade-off.

While pregnancy is physically possible after abdominoplasty, it can reverse many of the benefits by stretching the skin and potentially re-separating the repaired muscles. Most surgeons recommend completing your family before having a tummy tuck. If you do become pregnant later, the results may require revision surgery to restore.

Most patients describe tummy tuck discomfort as moderate and manageable with prescribed pain medication during the first week. The sensation is often compared to intense muscle soreness rather than sharp pain. Discomfort decreases significantly after the first few days, and most patients transition to over-the-counter pain relievers within a week.

Tummy tuck surgery is typically considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance. However, if you have documented medical issues like severe back pain from muscle separation or recurring rashes from excess skin, partial coverage may be possible.

The decision depends on how much excess skin you have and where your concerns are located. A mini tummy tuck addresses issues below the navel only, while a full tummy tuck treats the entire abdomen. Dr. Mark will evaluate your anatomy during consultation and recommend the approach that best achieves your goals.

Moderate weight gain may cause some fullness in your abdomen but won’t bring back the excess skin that was removed. Significant weight gain can stretch your remaining skin and affect your results. Maintain a stable weight within 10-15 pounds of your surgery weight to help preserve your improved contour long-term.

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References

Brumby, D. (2024, April 18). How can a tummy tuck help with separated abdominal muscles? American Society of Plastic Surgeons. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/how-can-a-tummy-tuck-help-with-separated-abdominal-muscles
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2024, January 30). There’s more than one type of tummy tuck. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/articles/theres-more-than-one-type-of-tummy-tuck