Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) in Columbia, Maryland
Last Updated: September 22, 2025 | Medically Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Mess, MD, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Achieving a flatter, firmer abdomen can feel impossible, especially after pregnancy or significant weight loss. If you’re in Columbia, Maryland, and struggling with loose abdominal skin, separated muscles, or stubborn fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise, a tummy tuck by board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sarah Mess offers a proven solution. With over 20 years of experience and thousands of successful procedures, Dr. Mess provides personalized care to help you achieve the natural-looking results you deserve.
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- About Dr. Sarah Mess: Your Trusted Abdominoplasty Expert
- What is a Tummy Tuck?
- What Can a Tummy Tuck Do for You?
- Your Tummy Tuck Options in Maryland
- Combining Your Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures
- The Tummy Tuck Procedure: What to Expect
- Tummy Tuck Recovery: Your Journey to Results
- Am I a Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
- Tummy Tuck Results: What You Can Expect
- Understanding Tummy Tuck Costs in Columbia, Maryland
- Tummy Tuck Safety and Risks
- Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tuck Surgery
About Dr. Sarah Mess: Your Trusted Abdominoplasty Expert
Dr. Sarah Mess, MD, FACS is a board-certified plastic surgeon with over two decades of experience serving Columbia, Baltimore, and the greater Maryland area. She graduated from the University of Maryland School of Medicine in 1999 and completed her plastic surgery residency at Georgetown MedStar Health in 2005.
Professional Affiliations:
- American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Industry Exhibits Committee
- American Society of Plastic Surgeons, Program Committee
- Maryland Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgeons
- International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science
- Medical Alumni Association of University of Maryland
- Women Plastic Surgeons
Specialized Experience:
- Over 20 years performing abdominoplasty procedures
- Expertise in complex post-weight loss body contouring
- Advanced training in minimally invasive techniques
What is a Tummy Tuck?
A tummy tuck, medically known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdominal area while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. This surgical technique creates a smoother, firmer midsection that diet and exercise alone often can’t achieve.
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During the procedure, Dr. Mess makes strategic incisions to access the underlying abdominal wall, removes excess tissue, and repositions the remaining skin for a more youthful appearance. The result is a flatter, more contoured abdomen that enhances your overall body silhouette.
What Can a Tummy Tuck Do for You?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 170,000 people underwent tummy tuck surgery in 2024, making it one of the most popular body contouring procedures.
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2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics
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Here’s what this transformative surgery can accomplish:
Remove Sagging Abdominal Skin
Loose, hanging skin often develops after pregnancy, significant weight loss, or natural aging. This excess skin can create an apron-like appearance that hangs over the pubic area, making it difficult to find properly fitting clothes and affecting your confidence. A tummy tuck removes this unwanted skin, revealing the firmer tissue underneath.
Repair Separated Abdominal Muscles (Diastasis Recti)
Pregnancy and weight gain can cause the rectus abdominis muscles (your “six-pack” muscles) to separate and weaken, a condition called diastasis recti. This condition affects up to 60% of postpartum women. Even after losing weight, these separated muscles can cause a persistent “pooch” that exercise can’t fix.
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Diastasis recti abdominis during pregnancy and 12 months after childbirth: prevalence, risk factors and report of lumbopelvic pain
British Journal of Sports Medicine 2016
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During a tummy tuck, Dr. Mess sutures these muscles back together, creating a strong, flat foundation.
Eliminate Stretch Marks
While a tummy tuck can’t remove all stretch marks, it can eliminate those located on the lower abdomen where excess skin is removed. If your stretch marks are primarily below the belly button, there’s a good chance they’ll be gone after your procedure.
Enhance Your Overall Body Contour
A tummy tuck doesn’t just improve your abdomen—it can enhance your entire silhouette. By creating a smoother transition from your ribcage to your hips, the procedure can make your waist appear more defined and your proportions more balanced.
Boost Comfort and Confidence
Beyond the aesthetic benefits, many patients find that removing excess abdominal skin improves their comfort during physical activities and makes it easier to find well-fitting clothes.
Your Tummy Tuck Options in Maryland
Dr. Mess offers several tummy tuck techniques, each tailored to address different concerns and anatomy. During your consultation, she’ll evaluate your specific needs and recommend the approach that will give you the best results.
Mini Tummy Tuck
A mini tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen below the belly button. This less extensive procedure is ideal for patients with:
- Minimal excess skin limited to the lower abdomen
- Good muscle tone above the belly button
- Realistic expectations about the scope of improvement
The mini tummy tuck involves a shorter incision and typically requires less recovery time than a full procedure.
Full Tummy Tuck
A full tummy tuck addresses both the upper and lower abdomen, making it the right choice for patients with:
- Excess skin and fat throughout the abdominal area
- Muscle separation above and below the belly button
- Significant changes from pregnancy or weight loss
This comprehensive approach provides the most dramatic transformation and is Dr. Mess’s most commonly performed tummy tuck technique.
Fleur-de-Lis Tummy Tuck
For patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, a Fleur-de-Lis tummy tuck may be necessary. This technique involves both horizontal and vertical incisions, allowing Dr. Mess to remove excess skin in multiple directions. While it results in more extensive scarring, it provides superior contouring for patients with substantial skin laxity.
Extended Tummy Tuck
An extended tummy tuck addresses not only the front of the abdomen but also extends around the sides to improve the flanks and lower back. This option is often recommended for post-weight loss patients who have excess skin that extends beyond the traditional tummy tuck area.
In December 2013, Dr. Mess performed liposuction on my thighs as well as a tummy tuck, which was done in conjunction with my hernia repair. I have to say that she did an amazing job! I am extremely happy with the results... I think that Dr. Mess is definitely one of the best cosmetic surgeons around. I am more than pleased with the results of my recent surgery, and I would enthusiastically recommend her to my friends and family.
Sherri - Google
Combining Your Tummy Tuck with Other Procedures
Many patients choose to combine their tummy tuck with other cosmetic procedures to achieve comprehensive body contouring. Popular combinations include:
Mommy Makeover
A mommy makeover typically combines a tummy tuck with breast procedures such as breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction. This approach allows you to address multiple areas affected by pregnancy and breastfeeding in a single surgery, reducing overall recovery time and costs.
Liposuction
Adding liposuction to your tummy tuck can enhance your results by removing stubborn fat deposits from areas like the flanks, back, or thighs. According to a study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, combining these procedures has a high satisfaction rate when performed by experienced surgeons.
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Liposuction Assisted Abdominoplasty: An Enhanced Abdominoplasty Technique
Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open
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Body Contouring After Weight Loss
If you’ve achieved significant weight loss, Dr. Mess can combine your tummy tuck with other body contouring procedures like arm lifts, thigh lifts, or lower body lifts to address excess skin throughout your body.
The Tummy Tuck Procedure: What to Expect
Understanding the surgical process can help ease any anxiety about your upcoming procedure. Here’s what happens during your tummy tuck surgery:
Pre-Operative Preparation
On the day of your surgery, you’ll arrive at Dr. Mess’s AAAASF–accredited surgery center in Columbia. After checking in, you’ll meet with your board-certified anesthesiologist to discuss your medical history and anesthesia plan.
Anesthesia
Your tummy tuck will be performed under general anesthesia to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. Dr. Mess works with experienced, board-certified anesthesiologists who specialize in plastic surgery procedures.
The Surgical Process
- Incision Placement: Dr. Mess makes a horizontal incision low on the abdomen, typically from hip to hip, just above the pubic area. She carefully places this incision so it can be hidden by underwear and swimwear.
- Muscle Repair: If you have diastasis recti, Dr. Mess will suture the separated abdominal muscles back together, creating a firmer, flatter foundation.
- Skin and Fat Removal: Excess skin and fat are carefully removed, and the remaining skin is repositioned for a smooth, natural contour.
- Belly Button Repositioning: In a full tummy tuck, your belly button may need to be repositioned to maintain natural proportions.
- Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures, and surgical drains may be placed to prevent fluid accumulation during early healing.
The entire procedure typically takes 3-4 hours, depending on the extent of correction needed and whether additional procedures are performed.
Tummy Tuck Recovery: Your Journey to Results
Recovery from tummy tuck surgery is a gradual process that requires patience and following Dr. Mess’s post-operative instructions. Here’s what you can expect:
Immediate Post-Operative Period (Days 1-7)
- You’ll wake up wearing a compression garment to minimize swelling and support your healing tissues
- Surgical drains will help prevent fluid buildup and are typically removed within 1-2 weeks
- Long-acting pain medication such as Exparel® is often used to keep you comfortable during the initial healing phase and support a smoother recovery.
- You’ll need to avoid lifting anything over 10 pounds and limit physical activity
Early Recovery (Weeks 1-2)
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons,, most patients can return to desk work within 1-2 weeks following abdominoplasty.
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What should I expect during my tummy tuck recovery?
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During this time:
- Swelling and bruising will be most noticeable but will gradually improve
- You can begin light walking to promote circulation
- Follow-up appointments with Dr. Mess ensure proper healing
Intermediate Recovery (Weeks 3-6)
- Many patients feel ready to return to more normal activities
- Light exercise may be approved, but avoid core-intensive workouts
- Compression garments continue to support healing and reduce swelling
Long-Term Recovery (Months 2-6)
- Most swelling resolves, revealing your final results
- You can gradually return to all normal activities, including exercise
- Scars continue to fade and mature over the following months
Got a breast reduction procedure done here late May. Best decision of my life. I had barely any wait time. The surgery went smoothly and recovery was so easy. I was off of heavy pain medicine after 5 days, and was moving around just fine at the same time. I felt so energized after only a week, the scarring is worth it. The team is kind and remember you, I felt so comfortable throughout the entire process. I will always recommend this office.
- Rain Ayers - GoogleTummy Tuck Before and After Photos
Patient aged 45-54
Photos taken 6 weeks post tummy tuck.
See the dramatic difference our team can make.
Am I a Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck Surgery?
The best candidates for tummy tuck surgery are individuals who:
- Are in good overall health with no medical conditions that impair healing
- Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
- Are at or near their ideal weight and have maintained stable weight for at least 6 months
- Are finished having children (pregnancy after a tummy tuck can compromise results)
- Don’t smoke or are willing to quit smoking for several weeks before and after surgery
- Have excess abdominal skin, separated muscles, or both that don’t respond to diet and exercise
During your consultation, Dr. Mess will evaluate your medical history, examine your abdomen, and discuss your goals to determine if you’re a good candidate for surgery.
Tummy Tuck Results: What You Can Expect
The results of your tummy tuck will be immediately visible, though initial swelling will mask some of the improvement. As healing progresses over the following months, you’ll see your final outcome emerge.
Most patients are thrilled with their results, which typically include:
- A flatter, firmer abdominal profile
- Improved muscle tone and definition
- Better-fitting clothes and enhanced body confidence
- Elimination of excess skin and many stretch marks
- A more proportionate overall silhouette
Your results should be long-lasting, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While the natural aging process continues, the improvements from your tummy tuck are permanent.
Understanding Tummy Tuck Costs in Columbia, Maryland
The cost of tummy tuck surgery varies based on several factors, including the extent of the procedure, whether additional treatments are combined, and your individual needs. Dr. Mess believes in transparent pricing and will provide you with a comprehensive quote during your consultation.
Comprehensive Pricing Includes:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Anesthesia costs
- Operating room fees
- Post-surgical garments
- All pre- and post-operative appointments
- Exparel (long-acting, non-opioid pain management)
Investment Range:
- Tummy Tuck: $14,000-$16,000
- Tummy Tuck + Liposuction: Additional $2,000-$3,000
- Mommy Makeover (Tummy Tuck + Breast Procedure): $20,000 – $23,000
Financing Options:
Since tummy tuck surgery is an elective cosmetic procedure, it is not covered by insurance. However, Dr. Mess’s practice offers financing options through PatientFi™ and CareCredit® to help make your procedure more affordable.
Tummy Tuck Safety and Risks
Like all surgical procedures, tummy tuck surgery carries some risks. Dr. Mess prioritizes patient safety and will discuss all potential complications during your consultation. According to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, complications from abdominoplasty are relatively rare when performed by board-certified plastic surgeons.
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What are the risks of tummy tuck surgery?
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Potential Risks Include:
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Unfavorable scarring
- Changes in skin sensation
- Asymmetry
- Need for revision surgery
Safety Measures:
Dr. Mess takes numerous precautions to minimize these risks, including:
- Operating in an accredited surgical facility
- Using proven surgical techniques
- Providing detailed pre- and post-operative care instructions
- Maintaining hospital privileges at major medical centers
- Continuous monitoring during surgery by board-certified anesthesiologists
Frequently Asked Questions About Tummy Tuck Surgery
Where can I find tummy tuck surgery near me?
If you’re looking for tummy tuck surgery in Columbia, Maryland, Dr. Sarah Mess offers comprehensive abdominoplasty procedures at her state-of-the-art practice. Serving patients from Baltimore, Washington D.C., Frederick, and Ellicott City, Dr. Mess combines board-certified expertise with a personalized approach to help you achieve your body contouring goals.
Can I combine any other treatments with my tummy tuck?
Absolutely! Many patients combine their tummy tuck with procedures like liposuction, breast augmentation, breast lift, or other body contouring treatments as part of a mommy makeover or comprehensive body transformation. Dr. Mess will discuss which combination procedures might benefit your specific goals during your consultation.
How long do tummy tuck results last?
Your tummy tuck results should be permanent, provided you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. While natural aging continues, the skin and fat removed during surgery won’t return. Future pregnancies can affect your results, which is why Dr. Mess recommends waiting until you’re finished having children.
Will I have visible scars after my tummy tuck?
Yes, tummy tuck surgery does result in scarring, but Dr. Mess carefully places incisions to minimize their visibility. The main scar runs horizontally across the lower abdomen and can typically be hidden by underwear and swimwear. Over time, scars fade significantly and become much less noticeable.
When can I exercise after my tummy tuck?
Most patients can begin light walking immediately after surgery, with gradual return to normal activities over 6-8 weeks. Dr. Mess will provide specific guidelines based on your healing progress and the extent of your procedure.
Can men get tummy tuck surgery?
Yes! Dr. Mess has helped many male patients achieve the toned, sculpted abdomen they desire through abdominoplasty. Men who have lost significant weight or struggle with loose abdominal skin can benefit greatly from tummy tuck surgery.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Body Goals
If you’re ready to address loose abdominal skin, separated muscles, or stubborn fat that won’t respond to diet and exercise, a tummy tuck with Dr. Sarah Mess could be the solution you’ve been seeking. Her combination of surgical skill, artistic vision, and personalized care has helped countless patients in Columbia, Maryland, and surrounding areas achieve their body contouring goals.
During your consultation, Dr. Mess will listen to your concerns, evaluate your anatomy, and develop a customized treatment plan designed to give you the natural-looking results you desire. Don’t let loose abdominal skin hold you back from feeling confident in your body—contact Dr. Mess’s practice today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward the flatter, firmer abdomen you deserve.
Contact Dr. Sarah Mess Today
Sarah Mess MD, LLC
Plastic Surgery Center of Columbia
Address:
9821 Broken Land Parkway, Suite 102
Columbia, MD 21046
Phone: (410) 910-2350
Email: info@sarahmessmd.com
Website: www.SarahMessMD.com
Office Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday: By appointment only
- Sunday: Closed
Serving: Columbia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., Frederick, Ellicott City, and surrounding Maryland communities
Book your appointment today and start your path toward a stronger, more confident you.
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual results may vary. All surgical procedures carry risks. Please consult with Dr. Mess during a personal consultation to discuss your specific situation and treatment options.
Editorial Review: This content has been medically reviewed by Dr. Sarah Mess, MD, Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon, and is updated regularly to reflect current medical practices and safety standards.
Sources1 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Tummy Tuck. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tummy-tuck/procedure. Accessed September 22, 2025.
2 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/plastic-surgery-statistics. Accessed September 22, 2025.
3 Sperstad JB, Tennfjord MK, Hilde G, et alDiastasis recti abdominis during pregnancy and 12 months after childbirth: prevalence, risk factors and report of lumbopelvic painBritish Journal of Sports Medicine 2016;50:1092-1096. Available: https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/50/17/1092.citation-tools. Accessed September 22, 2025.
4 Brauman D, van der Hulst RRWJ, van der Lei B. Liposuction Assisted Abdominoplasty: An Enhanced Abdominoplasty Technique. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2018 Sep 14;6(9):e1940. doi: 10.1097/GOX.0000000000001940. PMID: 30349798; PMCID: PMC6191222. Available: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6191222/. Accessed September 22, 2025.
5 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What should I expect during my tummy tuck recovery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tummy-tuck/recovery. Accessed September 22, 2025.
6 American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What are the risks of tummy tuck surgery? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/tummy-tuck/safety. Accessed September 22, 2025.
Dr. Sarah Mess has either authored or reviewed and approved this content. Page Updated
