Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Dr. Krau performs full and mini abdominoplasty to address excess abdominal skin, rectus diastasis (separation of the abdominal muscles), and persistent lower abdominal bulge that does not respond to diet and exercise. The procedure removes redundant skin and tightens the abdominal wall musculature, producing a flatter, firmer abdominal profile. Tummy tuck is a cornerstone of Dr. Krau's mommy makeover program and is frequently combined with breast surgery and liposuction in a single operative session.

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) at Dr. Ary Krau's Miami practice addresses the two separate anatomical problems that commonly coexist in the post-pregnancy or post-weight-loss abdomen: excess skin and subcutaneous fat that cannot be reduced by exercise, and weakness or separation of the rectus abdominis muscles beneath the skin. Diet and exercise can reduce adiposity but cannot remove skin that has been permanently stretched, nor can they reverse rectus diastasis — the midline separation of the rectus abdominis sheaths that allows the abdominal contents to bulge forward and creates the characteristic rounded lower abdominal appearance that persists despite healthy weight. Full abdominoplasty at Dr. Krau's practice addresses both components. An incision is placed low across the lower abdomen, carefully positioned to fall beneath the bikini line and underwear waistband; the skin and subcutaneous layer are elevated from the pubis to the costal margin; and the rectus fascia is plicicated in the midline with permanent sutures, restoring the corset-like tension of the abdominal wall. The excess skin envelope is then excised, the umbilicus is repositioned through a new opening in its natural anatomical location, and the wound is closed in layered tension. Liposuction of the flanks is commonly performed in the same session to refine the waistline and create harmony between the flat anterior abdomen and the lateral contours. For patients with more limited concerns confined to the lower abdomen below the navel and without significant rectus diastasis, a mini-abdominoplasty is available with a shorter scar and faster recovery. Tummy tuck is a central component of the mommy makeover program at Dr. Krau's practice, typically performed in combination with breast augmentation, breast lift, or both in patients who have completed their childbearing. Recovery involves restricted activity for four to six weeks, with compression garment use, and most patients return to desk work within two weeks.