A tummy tuck, also called an abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that is done to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tighten the muscles of the abdominal wall. This can result in a flatter and firmer belly.

An incision is made in the lower belly so that fat, tissue, and skin can be removed and muscles can be repaired. Another incision may be made around the navel if it needs to be moved. Liposuction may be done to remove some of the fat around the belly.

A tummy tuck may be done after a person has lost a lot of weight or had a baby. It may be combined with liposuction of the thighs or with breast enhancement (commonly called a “mommy makeover”).

Or this procedure may be done as part of a breast reconstruction that uses skin, fat, and tissue from the belly to form a breast after mastectomy.