Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Gig Harbor, WA
Restore a flatter, firmer abdominal contour with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Melissa Larsen, serving Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and the greater Puget Sound area.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen to create a smoother, firmer contour. It is commonly pursued by patients who have experienced significant weight loss, pregnancy, or changes in body composition that have left loose or overhanging abdominal skin that cannot be improved through diet or exercise alone. Liposuction may be incorporated to further refine the abdominal and waistline contour.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
A tummy tuck may be appropriate for patients who:
Have excess, loose, or overhanging skin on the abdomen
Have experienced significant weight loss or changes after pregnancy
Notice abdominal skin that does not respond to exercise or toning
Are at or near a stable, healthy weight
Are not planning future pregnancies
Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
During consultation, Dr. Larsen evaluates your anatomy, skin laxity, and goals to determine whether a full or mini abdominoplasty — with or without liposuction — is the most appropriate approach for your individual case.
Procedure Overview
Tummy tuck surgery is performed at an accredited outpatient surgical facility.
In general:
Surgery typically takes 2–4 hours depending on the extent of correction
Performed under general anesthesia
Excess skin and fat are removed from the abdomen
The remaining skin is repositioned and tightened for a smoother contour
Full abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdomen, with an incision placed low along the bikini line; the navel is repositioned as part of the procedure
Mini abdominoplasty is a more limited procedure suited to patients with excess skin confined to the lower abdomen, with a shorter incision and no repositioning of the navel
Liposuction may be incorporated to refine the waistline or surrounding areas
Patients return home the same day. The most appropriate technique is determined based on your anatomy and goals during consultation.
Recovery
Recovery from a tummy tuck is typically longer than smaller body contouring procedures. Most patients follow a general pattern:
Week 1 Swelling, bruising, and tightness are common. Walking in a slightly bent position is normal initially. A compression garment is worn. Activity is limited to light movement around the home.
Weeks 1–2 Posture gradually improves as tightness eases. Most patients are comfortable managing at home. Avoid lifting, straining, or any strenuous activity.
Weeks 3–4 Energy and mobility improve noticeably. Light daily activities resume. Lower body walking and light movement may increase as directed.
Week 6+ Most normal activities and exercise can resume. Dr. Larsen clears activity based on individual healing progress at follow-up visits.
Dr. Larsen provides detailed postoperative instructions and follow-up care throughout recovery.
Results
A tummy tuck creates a flatter, smoother abdominal profile — results that are immediate and long-lasting when weight remains stable.
Swelling resolves gradually over several weeks to months
Final contour is typically fully apparent at 3–6 months
The low bikini-line incision is positioned to remain discreet beneath clothing and swimwear
Scars fade considerably over 12–18 months
Maintaining a stable weight and avoiding future pregnancy helps preserve results long term.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a full and mini tummy tuck? A full abdominoplasty addresses the entire abdomen and involves repositioning the navel. A mini tummy tuck is a more limited procedure suited to patients whose concerns are confined to the lower abdomen. Dr. Larsen will recommend the appropriate approach based on your anatomy during consultation.
Can liposuction be combined with a tummy tuck? Yes. Liposuction is commonly incorporated to refine the waistline, flanks, or surrounding areas alongside a tummy tuck for a more complete contour result.
Should I wait until after having children? Patients who are planning future pregnancies are generally advised to wait. Pregnancy after a tummy tuck can affect results, and timing the procedure after your family is complete tends to produce the most lasting outcome.
How noticeable will the scar be? The incision is placed low along the bikini line, designed to remain beneath swimwear and underwear. Scarring fades significantly over time, and most patients find it a worthwhile trade-off for the improvement in contour.
What does a tummy tuck cost? Pricing depends on the extent of correction and whether liposuction is incorporated. Financing options are available — learn more here.
Meet Dr. Melissa Larsen, MD
Dr. Melissa Larsen is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon serving patients in Gig Harbor and the greater Tacoma area. She is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and completed her six-year Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Integrated Residency at Oregon Health & Science University. Dr. Larsen is committed to personalized care that achieves natural, balanced results.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Larsen to discuss your goals, review your options, and find out if a tummy tuck is right for you.