Tummy Tuck in Las Vegas
Achieve a flatter, firmer abdomen with expert surgical body contouring
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to create a flatter, more toned abdominal profile by removing excess skin and fat and restoring weakened or separated muscles. It is one of the most effective procedures for addressing stubborn abdominal changes that do not respond to diet and exercise alone.
- Remove excess, sagging abdominal skin
- Eliminate stubborn fat deposits in the midsection
- Repair separated or weakened abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
- Reposition the belly button for natural appearance
- Create a smoother, firmer abdominal contour
Why People Choose a Tummy Tuck
Pregnancy, significant weight loss, aging, and genetics can leave the abdomen with loose, sagging skin, stretch marks, and weakened muscles that no amount of exercise can fix. A tummy tuck restores abdominal firmness and shape, helping patients feel more confident and comfortable in their clothes and in their own skin.
Types of Tummy Tuck
The right type of abdominoplasty depends on the amount of excess skin, the degree of muscle separation, and each patient's individual goals. Dr. Troell will recommend the best approach during your consultation.
Mini Tummy Tuck
Addresses excess skin and fat below the belly button only. A shorter incision and less extensive surgery make this ideal for patients with mild lower abdominal laxity. The belly button is typically not repositioned.
Full Tummy Tuck
The most common type of abdominoplasty. Addresses the entire abdominal area from the ribcage to the pubic bone. Includes muscle repair, belly button repositioning, and removal of significant excess skin and fat.
Extended Tummy Tuck
Extends the incision around the flanks (love handles) for patients who need contouring of the sides and lower back in addition to the front abdomen. Often chosen after significant weight loss.
Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck
Adds a vertical incision in addition to the horizontal one, allowing removal of excess skin in both directions. Designed for patients with significant skin redundancy, often following massive weight loss.
What Happens During a Tummy Tuck
Anesthesia
General anesthesia is administered for your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Incision
A horizontal incision is made between the hip bones, just above the pubic area. The length and shape of the incision depend on the type of tummy tuck being performed.
Muscle Repair
Weakened or separated abdominal muscles are sutured together to restore a firm abdominal wall and narrow the waistline.
Skin Removal & Contouring
Excess skin and fat are removed. The remaining skin is re-draped and tightened. The belly button is repositioned as needed.
Closure
Incisions are closed with layered sutures. Drains may be placed temporarily. A compression garment is applied to support healing.
Progressive Tension Suturing
Dr. Troell utilizes Progressive Tension Suturing (PTS), an advanced closure technique that secures the abdominal flap to the underlying muscle wall in multiple layers. This technique can reduce the need for surgical drains, minimize fluid collection (seroma), and promote faster healing with a smoother result.
Why Choose Dr. Troell for Tummy Tuck Surgery
A tummy tuck is a significant surgical procedure that requires a skilled, experienced surgeon to achieve optimal results. With over 30 years of surgical experience and six board certifications, Dr. Troell brings expert precision to every abdominoplasty, using advanced techniques like Progressive Tension Suturing to optimize outcomes.
Am I a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Tummy tuck candidates are individuals who are bothered by excess abdominal skin, weakened muscles, or stubborn fat that has not responded to diet and exercise. The procedure is especially popular among post-pregnancy patients and those who have experienced significant weight loss.
- Loose, sagging abdominal skin
- Separated or weakened abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
- Stubborn fat deposits in the midsection
- Stretch marks on the lower abdomen
- At a stable weight (not planning significant weight loss)
- Non-smoker or willing to quit before and after surgery
- Done having children (for optimal long-term results)
What Can a Tummy Tuck Achieve?
Remove excess skin and fat to create a smooth, flat abdominal profile.
Restore separated abdominal muscles for a stronger, narrower waistline.
Remove stretch marks located on the excised skin below the belly button.
Feel more comfortable in fitted clothing and swimwear.
Tummy Tuck Before & After Photos
These images represent actual patients of Dr. Troell who provided written consent.
All before and after photographs are of actual patients who have provided written consent. Photos have not been digitally altered except for cropping and color correction. Results shown are not guaranteed and vary from patient to patient.
What Our Patients Say
"Dr. Troell gave me the flat stomach I had been dreaming about for years. After two pregnancies, I never thought I could look like this again. The results are incredible."
Google Review"The Progressive Tension technique Dr. Troell uses meant no drains for me, which made recovery so much more comfortable. My scar is thin and well-hidden."
Google Review"From my very first consultation to my final follow-up, Dr. Troell and his staff were professional, caring, and honest. I felt safe and supported throughout the entire process."
Google ReviewEvery procedure on this page is performed by board-certified surgeon in Las Vegas. Dr. Troell is board-certified in cosmetic surgery and in facial plastic & reconstructive surgery, with 30+ years of surgical experience. Residency and fellowship at Stanford University; Doctor of Medicine from the University of South Florida College of Medicine. See notable achievements.
From Dr. Troell's Peer-Reviewed Publications
Tummy tuck combined with simultaneous liposuction commonly produces the harvested fat used for gluteal or hip-dip fat grafting in the same operative session. The full technique, 112-patient outcomes, and complication profile are summarized in our companion article: Stem Cell-Enriched BBL: How Awake Anesthesia + Subcutaneous Fat Grafting Lower Risk.
Source: Troell, R. 2026. Gluteal & Hip Stem Cell Enriched Fat Grafting (Brazilian Butt Lift): Optimizing Outcomes While Minimizing Complications. Medical Research Archives, 14(4). DOI: 10.18103/mra.v14i4.7467. Open access.
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Tummy Tuck Recovery Timeline
Immediate Post-Op
Most discomfort occurs during this phase. You will walk slightly bent at the waist to reduce tension on the incision. Wear compression garment continuously. Pain medication will be prescribed. Drains (if placed) will be monitored.
Early Recovery
Gradually begin standing straighter. Drains typically removed within 1-2 weeks. Light walking encouraged. Avoid lifting anything over 10 pounds. Most patients take 1-2 weeks off work.
Return to Routine
Most patients return to desk work and light daily activities. Continue wearing compression garment. Sutures dissolve or are removed. Swelling continues to decrease gradually.
Active Recovery
Light exercise (walking, light cardio) can resume around week 6 with surgeon approval. Core exercises and heavy lifting still restricted. Scar management begins.
Final Results
Full exercise resumes around 3 months. Swelling fully resolves over 6-12 months. Scars continue to flatten and fade for up to a year. Final contour becomes visible.
Emergency Guidelines
Contact Dr. Troell's office immediately or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience: sudden severe pain, high fever (over 101.5°F), excessive bleeding or drainage, signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, or foul-smelling discharge), difficulty breathing, or calf pain and swelling (possible blood clot).
Risks and Potential Complications
Common Post-Operative Effects
- Swelling and bruising
- Temporary numbness around the incision
- Tenderness and tightness in the abdomen
- Temporary limited range of motion
Potential Complications
- Seroma (fluid accumulation)
- Wound healing complications
- Infection
- Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism
- Skin flap necrosis
Cosmetic Outcomes
- Visible scarring
- Asymmetry
- Belly button irregularity
- Contour irregularity
General Surgical Risks
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Bleeding or blood clots
- Persistent pain
- Need for revision surgery
Tummy Tuck Cost in Las Vegas
- Pre-operative consultation and planning
- Surgeon's fee
- Anesthesia fees
- Facility/operating room fees
- Compression garment
- Post-operative follow-up visits
Tummy Tuck FAQs
What is the difference between a mini and full tummy tuck?
A mini tummy tuck uses a shorter incision and addresses only the area below the belly button, while a full tummy tuck treats the entire abdomen, includes muscle repair, and repositions the belly button. Dr. Troell will recommend the right approach based on your anatomy and goals.
Can I have a tummy tuck if I plan to have more children?
While a tummy tuck will not affect your ability to become pregnant, future pregnancies can stretch the muscles and skin again, potentially compromising your results. Most surgeons recommend waiting until you are done having children before undergoing abdominoplasty.
How long does a tummy tuck take?
A full tummy tuck typically takes 2-4 hours depending on the extent of the procedure, whether liposuction is included, and the technique used. A mini tummy tuck is generally shorter at 1-2 hours.
Will I have a visible scar?
Yes, a tummy tuck does leave a scar, but Dr. Troell places the incision low enough to be concealed by most underwear and swimwear. The scar continues to fade and flatten over 6-12 months, and scar management protocols are provided to optimize healing.
Can a tummy tuck be combined with liposuction?
Yes, liposuction is frequently combined with a tummy tuck to contour the flanks, lower back, or other areas for a more comprehensive body sculpting result. Dr. Troell will discuss safe combination options during your consultation.
How much weight will I lose from a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss procedure. Most patients lose a few pounds from the removed skin and fat, but the primary goal is to improve shape and contour rather than reduce weight on the scale.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All surgical procedures carry inherent risks, and individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, health status, and adherence to pre- and post-operative instructions. Always consult with a qualified, board-certified surgeon to evaluate your individual case.
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