How to Get the Best Tummy Tuck in New York City

If you want a flatter, firmer abdomen, a tummy tuck with Dr. Thomas P. Sterry in Manhattan, New York City, can help you achieve the results you want. Whether you’ve experienced changes in your body due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging, Dr. Sterry is here to help you regain your confidence and feel great in your own skin.

Tummy Tuck
 Before & After Photos

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Before & After

Tummy Tuck & Hernia Repair

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This 34-year-old woman came in asking for a tummy tuck and hernia repair.  Dr. Sterry performed the operation at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City. She was 5 feet 6 inches tall and 125 pounds. She developed a hernia after a previous C-section and needed to have her abdominal muscles put back in their proper place. An a... Read More

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Manhattan Mommy Makeover Case #195

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This is a 39 year old Manhattan woman who has given birth to twins, breast fed, and wanted to "get her body back" with a Mommy Makeover.
We decided to move forward with a tummy tuck, breast lift (without implants), and liposuction of the flank to enhance her waistline.
The operation took about 4.5 hours and was performed with sedation,... Read More

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Tummy Tuck NYC Compares C-Section to Tummy Tuck Case #203

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 This is a 39 year old mother of two who thought it was time to "reset" her body.  She had been on a very aggressive diet and exercise routine, but was unable to regain the slender figure she had before giving birth.  None of her efforts helped to tighten her belly skin no matter how extreme she lived.
She came to my... Read More

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Tummy Tuck NYC Hot Mother Guilt Free

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This is a 38 year old mother who wanted a tummy tuck for years but says she always felt "guilty" about spending the money and the time on herself instead of her family.  We came up with a plan to make this a very fast recovery and helped her figure out how she could make it happen for herself.  When her recovery was finished she ref... Read More

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Real Tummy Tuck Results

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This is a 37 year old woman who had two children and said she didn't feel "proud" anymore.  She wanted another chance to have a physique she would be able to reveal at the beach without hesitation.  There was also a belly button hernia that she wanted to have fixed to make her umbilicus look normal.

In addition to the abdomin... Read More

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Tummy Tuck & Hernia Repair

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This 35-year-old woman was 5 feet 4 inches tall and 125 pounds. She came to us for hernia repair and a tummy tuck at our practice in New York City to restore her midsection after 2 pregnancies.

Patient Age: 35

Pregnancies: 2

Motivation for tummy Tuck:

Hernia repair

Cosmetic umbilical repair (belly... Read More

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Tummy Tuck for Men

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This 32-year-old man was 5 feet 7 inches tall and 175 pounds. He had lost some weight during the last year with the help of a lap-band procedure and was left with some excess loose skin that he wanted to have removed. He came to our New York practice for tummy tuck advice. His biggest concern as a man having a tummy tuck was placement of the... Read More

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Tummy Tuck for Men

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This 34-year-old New York-area man was 5 feet 9 inches tall and 178 pounds. He had lost weight through diet and exercise but was disappointed to find that he was left with excess loose skin that he couldn't hide, even while dressed. He came to us interested in getting a tummy tuck in NYC. The real trick in performing a tummy tuck for... Read More

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Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.

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What Is a Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, removes excess skin and fat from your abdomen while tightening and repairing the underlying muscles. If you’ve experienced pregnancy, significant weight loss, or just the natural effects of aging, you may have loose skin and stretched abdominal muscles that can’t be improved through diet and exercise alone.

During your tummy tuck, Dr. Sterry will carefully remove the excess skin and tighten your abdominal muscles, often repairing separated muscles (diastatis recti). This muscle repair helps you achieve a firmer, stronger abdomen. The remaining skin will be pulled down to create a smoother, flatter contour, and your bellybutton may be reshaped for natural-looking results.

Many patients combine their tummy tuck with liposuction for additional body contouring.

Dr. Sterry’s Approach

While there is no such thing as the “best tummy tuck surgeon in New York City,” some surgeons will consistently do a better job than others. Dr. Sterry’s approach stands out because of his attention to detail and dedication to providing you with the most natural-looking results possible. He customizes each tummy tuck with a focus on the following:

• Minimizing visible scarring: Dr. Sterry places your incisions as low as possible so they’re easily hidden by underwear or swimwear.
• Creating a natural-looking bellybutton: Your bellybutton is a key part of your final look. Dr. Sterry takes special care to ensure it looks natural and proportional to your new contours.
• Advanced pain control: To make your recovery as comfortable as possible, Dr. Sterry uses the TAP block with Exparel®, which provides up to 72 hours of pain relief and reduces the need for narcotic medications.

With his extensive experience and meticulous approach, you can trust Dr. Sterry to help you achieve the best possible results.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost in NYC and Manhattan?

The cost of a tummy tuck varies based on the extent of correction needed and whether liposuction is included. It’s best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Sterry to allow him to assess your needs and provide a customized quote.

What Is Diastasis Recti and How Do You Fix It?

Diastasis recti is a gap between the two sides of the rectus abdominis muscle, which runs vertically down the anterior wall of the abdomen. Many women who have had children develop this condition because the abdominal muscles stretch and separate to accommodate the growing baby; these muscles often fail to return to their original state after pregnancy.

During a tummy tuck, Dr. Sterry tightens the separated abdominal muscles by pulling them together, closing the gap, and stitching them in place, creating an internal “corset.” This results in a flatter abdomen and slimmer waist. You can learn more about fixing diastasis recti from this blog post.

What Is a Mini Tummy Tuck?

If your concerns are limited to the area below your bellybutton, a mini tummy tuck might be all you need. A mini tummy tuck is a more focused version of the full procedure, addressing only loose skin and fat in the lower abdomen. The incision is smaller, and the bellybutton stays in place. However, few patients are good candidates for a mini tummy tuck; most need a full tummy tuck to achieve their desired results.

Mini Tummy Tuck vs. Full Tummy Tuck: Which Is Right for You?

The choice between a full or mini tummy tuck depends on your specific concerns and goals.

Full Tummy Tuck Candidates

• If you have excess skin both above and below your navel, a full tummy tuck is likely the best option for you.
• If your abdominal muscles have separated due to pregnancy or weight fluctuations, a full tummy tuck can repair them, helping you achieve a flatter, more toned appearance.
• A full tummy tuck can also address stretch marks on your lower abdomen, removing or reducing their appearance.

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Mini Tummy Tuck Candidates

• If your concerns are limited to loose skin below your bellybutton, a mini tummy tuck may be the perfect solution for you.
• If your muscle separation is mild, a mini tummy tuck might give you the results you want with a shorter recovery time and a smaller incision.

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Most of Dr. Sterry’s mini tucks are performed for patients who essentially want C-section scar revision. If patients truly have loose skin below the belly button, those patients are usually better served with a full tummy tuck. The difference is not such a dramatically longer scar, but the result is enormously better. During your consultation, Dr. Sterry will help you evaluate which option is best for you based on your anatomy and desired results.

Full vs. Mini Tummy Tuck Comparison

Get to Know

Dr. Thomas P. Sterry

Thomas Sterry, MD, is a board-certified New York City plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He has been president of both the New York State Society of Plastic Surgeons and the New York Regional Society of Plastic Surgeons. In addition, he sits on the executive council of the New York County Medical Society and has been a delegate to the Medical Society of the State of New York for years. At his inviting, boutique-style practice in Manhattan, he focuses on each patient’s unique needs and aesthetic goals so that he can provide the most attractive and natural-looking outcomes possible.

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Credentials you can trust

Your Tummy Tuck Procedure: What To Expect

Dr. Sterry will customize your tummy tuck to meet your needs and goals. Here’s what you can expect from your experience:

Before Surgery

Before your procedure, Dr. Sterry will mark your abdomen to ensure your incisions are placed precisely for minimal scarring. You’ll receive local anesthesia, nerve blocks, and sedation to keep you comfortable without the need for general anesthesia in most cases. Your surgery will take place either in Dr. Sterry’s state-of-the-art surgical facility or in a fully accredited hospital, depending on what’s best for you.

During Surgery

Dr. Sterry will make a horizontal incision low on your abdomen, removing excess skin and tightening your muscles as needed. If you’re having a full tummy tuck, he will also make an incision around your bellybutton. Once the excess abdominal skin is removed, he will reshape your bellybutton for a natural look. The length of your incision and the extent of muscle repair will depend on your needs, which you’ll discuss with Dr. Sterry before surgery.

After Surgery

When you wake up, you’ll be in a recovery area where a nurse will monitor your care. It’s normal to feel groggy, and you’ll notice some tightness in your abdomen from the muscle repair and tightened skin. You’ll be wearing a compression garment to reduce swelling and support your healing abdomen.

You’ll need someone to drive you home and help you for the first few days, as you won’t be able to do many daily tasks on your own. Depending on the specifics of your procedure, Dr. Sterry may use drains to prevent fluid buildup or perform a drainless technique with progressive tension sutures.

Dr. Sterry uses advanced pain management, including Exparel®, for long-lasting, non-opioid relief to diminish discomfort. You’ll also receive detailed post-op instructions to guide you through recovery, including tips for reducing swelling and improving circulation with light activity.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

Your tummy tuck recovery will require some patience and careful attention to Dr. Sterry’s post-op instructions. The following tummy tuck recovery timeline outlines a typical recuperation, although your experience may vary.

Initial Days After Surgery

You won’t be able to stand up fully straight right after surgery, which is normal. You’ll need help with daily tasks, such as getting out of bed and dressing. Regularly walking short distances is essential to improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Avoid straining, bending, or lifting anything heavy during this time.

First Week

Bruising and swelling will peak in the first week. While you’ll need plenty of rest, you should continue taking light walks. Your compression garment will reduce swelling and support your abdomen as it heals. If you have drains, they’ll likely stay in place for 4 to 5 days. Dr. Sterry’s pain management techniques will help keep you comfortable during this phase.

Weeks 2 to 3

By the second or third week, you may feel ready to return to light activities or work, though you should still avoid anything strenuous. Most patients stop wearing their compression garments around week 3. Swelling will start to subside, and bruising will diminish. You should continue to avoid heavy lifting or intense exercise.

Weeks 4 to 6

At this point, you can gradually resume aerobic exercise, such as walking or using a stationary bike. However, it’s important to avoid core exercises, weightlifting, and any activities that strain your abdomen until Dr. Sterry clears you for more strenuous activities.

Months 3 to 6

By 3 months, you’ll be about 80% healed and can return to most normal activities. You can typically resume strenuous exercise, including weightlifting, running, and yoga, by this time. Your scars will continue to fade, though some numbness and tightness may persist. Keep following scar care instructions, and avoid exposing your incisions to direct sunlight. By 6 months, most patients are 90% healed and fully enjoying their results.

Tummy Tuck Recovery Timeline

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Request Your Consultation

Learn more about board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sterry and how he achieves superior tummy tuck results for his Manhattan patients. Request a consultation using our online form or call our office at  (212) 249-4020 to schedule your appointment.

A Reputation Built on Results

Dr. Sterry and his team are amazing! They take the time to get to know you and what your concerns are....

Feb 26, 2025

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Highly Recommend Dr. Sterry and His Team! Dr. Sterry is not only incredibly skilled but also extremely...

Jan 26, 2025

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Amazing! Liposuction, a thigh lift, tummy tuck, and a neck and face lift Highly Recommend Dr. Sterry...

Jan 26, 2025

Realself

Thomas P. Sterry is a very reputable, respectful and amazing surgeon! I was fortunate to undergo his...

Sep 24, 2024

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Read More Featured Reviews

‘Dr Sterry is incredible!’

“Dr Sterry is incredible! He removed a childhood facial scar that I’ve spent countless amounts of money on over the years with other doctors to fix. The scar went from haunting me every time in the mirror to no longer noticeable! I also did cheek and neck liposuction with the Dr that came out amazing. No more moon face! He does an amazing job. His staff is great too!”*

—James L.

‘Absolutely recommend him…’

Best Doctor and staff ever!!! Am 6 weeks post up did tummy tuck and I can say with all confidence Doctor Sterry have a God made hand for his profession! From consultation to surgery day and right into recovery he have been with me as well as his staff!!

Absolutely recommend him in my experience if you feel any type of fear in making this decision, he gives so much confidence….I have no regrets!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!*

—Christileen F.

‘I highly recommend Dr. Sterry and his staff.’

“Dr. Sterry is not only a gem on a personal level but is also a fabulous plastic surgeon. I could not be more pleased with the results of my tummy tuck and look forward to using him again for other procedures in the future.

A bonus is his incredible staff. I could not have gotten better advice, tips and caring from Michelle, Alex and Stephanie.

I highly recommend Dr. Sterry and his staff. I had a wonderful experience.”*

—Roberta G.

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