Tummy Tuck
Conveniently located to serve the areas of Tampa and Lakeland, FL
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty, is a surgical body-contouring procedure that is performed to help reshape the abdomen and repair separated muscles. (1) This procedure removes excess skin and fat from around your midsection to create a more sculpted silhouette. Tummy tucks are one of the most commonly performed aesthetic procedures in the country, with over 171,000 procedures performed in the year 2024 alone. (2)
Dr. Jacob Gerzenshtein of Finer You is a fellowship-trained plastic surgeon who is board-certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery. He has over 20 years of experience and has performed over 15,000 different procedures, demonstrating his knowledge and leadership in his field. Whether you are seeking a simple injection or a surgical transformation, Dr. Gerzenshtein and his team can help!
If you are ready to redefine your waist, please schedule a consultation online. If you have any questions, our Lakeland office can be reached at (863) 647-2200.
Contents
Before and After Photos
About Tummy Tucks
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure designed to address various aesthetic concerns found around the abdomen and midsection. This procedure is performed to create the appearance of a flatter, more toned stomach and to help correct separated or weakened muscles in the core. Many patients seek this procedure to help correct the appearance of loose or hanging skin, which is often caused by rapid weight loss, pregnancy, or aging. (1) Undergoing a tummy tuck can not only transform your appearance but also help you feel more confident. At Finer You, Dr. Gerzenshtein can perform both a full tummy tuck and a mini tummy tuck to help address each of your concerns, helping you achieve the appearance you desire.
Benefits
Tummy tucks offer a variety of benefits, which is why it is such a sought-after procedure. These benefits include:
- A More Defined Abdomen: A tummy tuck helps eliminate excess skin and tissue, reshaping the abdomen for a flatter and more contoured appearance.
- Enhanced Muscle Tone: Loose or separated abdominal muscles can be tightened and repaired during the procedure, helping you restore a firmer core.
- Minimized Scar Visibility: Dr. Gerzenshtein places incisions low on the bikini line, making them easily concealable under your swimwear and clothing.
- Improved Confidence: Redefining your figure with a tummy tuck can help enhance your body confidence and elevate your self-esteem.
- Long-Lasting Results: When paired with the proper lifestyle habits, the results of a tummy tuck can last for years to come.
- Improved Comfort: A tummy tuck can provide relief from any irritation or chafing caused by excess skin or tissue.
Candidates
Candidates interested in our tummy tuck procedure typically include either men or women with loose or separated abdominal muscles caused by weight loss or pregnancy, as well as the accumulation of excess skin and tissue around their abdomen. Those interested in enhancing the aesthetic appearance of their abdomen may also be suitable candidates for this procedure.
Each candidate interested in undergoing a tummy tuck should be in good general health, without any underlying medical conditions that may affect their recovery and results. Patients should also achieve a stable and maintainable weight before their procedure. Dr. Gerzenshtein will determine each patient’s candidacy during their personal consultation.
Personal Consultation
During your personal consultation, Dr. Gerzenshtein will meet with you to get to know you more personally and understand how he can help you attain your desired figure. He will explain what a tummy tuck is and what this procedure entails. You will have an open discussion with him regarding your medical history, abdominal concerns, and desired treatment outcomes. Dr. Gerzenshtein will also perform a medical examination to evaluate your abdomen, skin quality, and overall anatomy.
The details shared throughout this consultation will be used to help determine your candidacy for a tummy tuck and develop your treatment plan. Dr. Gerzenshtein will recommend the best surgical techniques for your needs and tailor certain aspects of the procedure to ensure that the results align with your expectations. You will also receive pre- and post-operative instructions, as well as a price quote. We encourage you to prepare and ask any questions you may have about either tummy tucks or plastic surgery in general, as we want you to feel informed and empowered leaving your consultation.
To schedule this consultation, please submit our online contact form submit our online contact form. If you have any questions or would prefer scheduling your consultation over the phone, our office can be reached at (863) 647-2200.
Preparation
When preparing for your tummy tuck, you will need to follow each of the instructions provided to you during your consultation. These instructions will vary depending on the details of your personalized treatment plan, but are each designed to facilitate a smooth recovery and optimal results.
Dr. Gerzenshtein may ask you to undergo lab testing and imaging to ensure you are ready for your procedure. You will need to prearrange transportation to and from your appointment, as well as time away from work and other commitments. You will need to refrain from taking blood-thinning medications and supplements, as well as consuming alcohol. Smoking, if applicable, should also be fully ceased several weeks in advance, as nicotine can inhibit your ability to recover. (3) It is also advised to arrange for at-home care during your initial recovery, but this is not always necessary.
Procedure
At Finer You, Dr. Gerzenshtein can perform either a full tummy tuck or a mini tummy tuck, depending on your personal needs. The duration of the procedure can vary depending on the details of your treatment plan, typically lasting between two and three hours. Regardless of which variation is being performed, your procedure will begin with the cleansing of your skin and administration of general anesthesia.
Full Tummy Tuck Procedure
Dr. Gerzenshtein will place a low-set incision just above the pubic area. The length of the incision will depend on the amount of tissue being removed, but it often extends horizontally from hip to hip. He will separate your skin from the abdominal muscles before tightening your abdominal muscles to help strengthen your core and correct the appearance of separated muscles (diastasis recti). Excess skin and fat around the abdomen will be carefully excised, and your remaining skin will be tightened and sutured together. If needed, Dr. Gerzenshtein can also reshape and reposition your navel for a more cohesive appearance.
Mini Tummy Tuck Procedure
A mini tummy tuck procedure is used for patients who have minimal excess upper abdominal skin and a minimal to moderate amount of skin excess below the umbilicus (belly button). It is called a “mini” abdominoplasty because dissection does not proceed above the belly button. The navel is not repositioned, the incision is shorter, and abdominal muscle tightening is generally not included.
Recovery
After your procedure, you will be released to a trusted adult to continue recovering from the comfort of your own home. You will need to follow the post-operative instructions provided to you by Dr. Gerzenshtein.
During this time, you may experience swelling or tenderness around the treated areas. These effects are temporary and will dissipate on their own, but may also be managed using pain medications. Throughout your recovery, you may also need to wear a compression garment. This garment is designed to help protect your new silhouette and help minimize swelling. Most patients can return to work within two weeks, but strenuous or physical activities should be refrained from for approximately six weeks.
You may be asked to return to our office for follow-up appointments. These meetings are designed to allow our team to monitor your progress and ensure your results are developing as expected. We encourage you to reach out with any questions you may have, as our team is here to support and guide you throughout your recovery.
Results
After undergoing a tummy tuck, you will be able to enjoy a more slender and flat abdomen. Your waistline will appear more defined, and your overall figure will appear more balanced. Many patients also report an improvement in their self-confidence.
The results of a tummy tuck are designed to be durable and long-lasting, with many patients experiencing their results for several years. However, healthy lifestyle habits must be adopted to preserve the effects of your procedure, as weight fluctuations or pregnancy can alter your results.
Cost of Tummy Tucks in Tampa and Lakeland, Florida
The cost of your tummy tuck can vary depending on your individual needs, concerns, and desired results. During your consultation, Dr. Gerzenshtein will provide you with a comprehensive cost estimate for your treatment plan. The pricing will vary based on several factors, each of which will be discussed with you.
Finer You is additionally partnered with several reputable lending companies to provide you with a range of flexible financing options. We currently work with ALPHAEON Credit, CareCredit, Prosper Healthcare Lending, and PatientFi to help make our services more accessible. If you are unsure which option is best for you and your procedure, our patient coordinators are more than happy to help you.
To learn more about the cost of your tummy tuck, please schedule a consultation online or call our office at (863) 647-2200.
FAQ
How long does a tummy tuck take?
The procedure typically lasts between 2–5 hours, depending on the complexity and whether additional procedures like liposuction are included.
Will I lose weight with a tummy tuck?
While a tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat, it is not a weight-loss procedure. It is best suited for individuals close to their ideal weight.
Can I combine a tummy tuck with other procedures?
Yes! Many patients combine abdominoplasty with liposuction, breast augmentation, or other body contouring procedures for comprehensive results.
Are the results permanent?
With a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, the results of your tummy tuck can last for many years.
How visible are the scars?
Our surgeon places incisions strategically to minimize scarring, which will fade significantly over time.
References
- Regan JP, Casaubon JT. Abdominoplasty. Nih.gov. Published July 24, 2023. Accessed August 11, 2025. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK431058/#article-17029.s6
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Published June 2025. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf
- Bhargava D. Abdominoplasty today. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery : Official Publication of the Association of Plastic Surgeons of India. 2008;41(Suppl):S20. doi:https://doi.org/100034318239.m_1
