Tummy Tuck

Back to You

Sculpt the Body you want.

Dr. Kaufman recognizes that a toned and flat abdomen can be elusive for many of us who attempt improvement with high levels of activity and weight control. Even individuals with normal body weights can have extra skin and abdominal wall laxity with overhanging tissue.



  • Loose, sagging skin after weight loss or pregnancy
  • Excess fat deposits resistant to diet and exercise
  • Separated or weakened abdominal muscles (diastasis recti)
  • Stretch marks on the lower abdomen
  • Improved abdominal contour and waistline definition
  • Increased core strength and improved posture potentially decreasing back pain
  • Reduction in Stress Urinary Incontinence

What is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening the underlying abdominal muscles. Dr. Gabriel J. Kaufman, a double board-certified plastic surgeon in Albany, NY, specializes in this transformative procedure, helping patients achieve a flatter, firmer midsection while improving the natural shape of the body.

What to expect from a Tummy Tuck Procedure.

Comprehensive Consultation:

Your journey to improved abdominal contour starts with the consultation. Dr. Kaufman will assess your abdomen regarding the degree of skin laxity and thickness of the abdominal wall and walk you through the surgical experience. He will also be interested in whether your core muscles have split apart, resulting in a weakness of the abdominal wall. He will review his findings and discuss your goals with recommendations for the amount of skin excision and best placement of incisions.


Preoperative Preparation:

You'll receive detailed instructions to ensure you're ready for surgery, including encouragement to embrace lifestyle, nutritional, and holistic improvements to ensure active recovery following surgery.


Surgery Day:

The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on how extensive the dissection of the abdominal wall is needed. Expect to arrive 1 to 2 hours prior to surgery with a friend or family member to keep you company and help get you home safely after surgery. You will be greeted by friendly pre-operative staff and nurses who will check you in and start the intravenous line.

Shortly thereafter, you will have a chance to meet the anesthesia team, and Dr. Kaufman will greet you as well. He will answer any remaining questions regarding your surgery and then mark you while you are sitting up. After the procedure, expect to recover for at least an hour or two before going home. The post-operative medications will be sent to your pharmacy before leaving for home. All in all, it is a long day but well worth the effort. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long do tummy tuck results last?

    Results from tummy tuck surgery can be long-lasting, especially when maintaining a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. However, future pregnancies or significant weight fluctuations may affect your results.

  • Will a tummy tuck help me lose weight?

    Although a tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgery, not a weight loss procedure, it is designed to remove excess skin and fat and tighten muscles after weight loss or pregnancy. It can increase core strength and freedom of movement, allowing for more efficient movement and motivation for a healthy and active lifestyle. 

  • How visible will my tummy tuck scar be?

    The typical abdominoplasty incision is the entire length of the lower pelvis across the lower abdomen but is typically hidden by underwear or swimwear. The scar will fade over time but will not completely disappear.

  • How long before I can return to work after a tummy tuck?

    Most patients can return to full-time work within 2 to 3 weeks. However, more physically demanding jobs may require 4-6 weeks of recovery.

  • Should I have a tummy tuck if I plan to get pregnant in the future?

    While tummy tuck surgery doesn't affect your ability to carry a pregnancy, it's generally recommended to wait until you've completed your family to undergo the procedure.