Thomas P. Sterry, MD
1080 5th Avenue #1b
New York, NY 10128
Phone: (212) 249-4020
Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m.–3 p.m.
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
Case: 1 of 9
Before & After
Tummy Tuck & Hernia Repair
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
Before & After
Manhattan Mommy Makeover Case #195
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
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
Before & After
Tummy Tuck NYC Compares C-Section to Tummy Tuck Case #203
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
She came to my... Read More
Before & After
Tummy Tuck NYC Hot Mother Guilt Free
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
Before & After
Real Tummy Tuck Results
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
In addition to the abdomin... Read More
Before & After
Tummy Tuck & Hernia Repair
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
Patient Age: 35
Pregnancies: 2
Motivation for tummy Tuck:
Hernia repair
Cosmetic umbilical repair (belly... Read More
Before & After
Tummy Tuck for Men
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
Before & After
Tummy Tuck for Men
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
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
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 procedure, 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 surgery with liposuction for additional body contouring.
Why Choose Dr. Sterry for Your Tummy Tuck?
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 surgery with a focus on the following:
Minimizing Visible Scarring
Dr. Sterry is known for taking every possible measure to minimize visible scarring. He places the incision very low on the abdomen, typically below the bikini line, so it’s easy to conceal under most clothing—even low-rise styles. Beyond placement, he uses advanced surgical techniques that help the incision lie flat and heal cleanly for a finer, more discreet scar.
If you’ve had a C-section in the past, there’s even more good news: that scar can often be removed during your tummy tuck. In fact, Dr. Sterry frequently replaces old C-section scars with a new, cleaner incision that becomes part of the tummy tuck closure. The result is smoother, more refined skin in the lower abdomen and one well-placed scar instead of two.
Learn more about how a tummy tuck can remove C-section scars in this related blog post.
Creating a Natural-Looking Bellybutton
The bellybutton makes a big impact on the overall look of your tummy tuck. A well-sculpted navel adds authenticity to your results—it should look like it’s always belonged on your abdomen, not like it was surgically recreated.
Dr. Sterry uses a signature technique to create a bellybutton that looks natural, proportional, and flattering to your new contours. In fact, many patients specifically choose Dr. Sterry because of his reputation for creating some of the most beautiful bellybuttons in New York.
This blog post discusses why the bellybutton’s appearance is so important to optimal tummy tuck results.
Using Advanced Pain Control Protocols
Tummy tuck recovery has a reputation for being one of the more uncomfortable plastic surgery experiences—but it doesn’t have to be. Dr. Sterry uses a technique called a transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block, paired with a long-acting local anesthetic called Exparel®, to dramatically improve comfort in the first few days after surgery.
This advanced protocol numbs the abdominal area for up to 72 hours, significantly reducing the need for narcotic medications. That means you can start moving around sooner, feel more like yourself, and get back to your daily life with fewer side effects.
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 in New York City varies depending on several factors, including the extent of correction needed and whether additional procedures like liposuction are included. Some patients may require a full abdominoplasty, while others are ideal candidates for a mini tummy tuck or a combination approach. These nuances can affect the overall price, which is why the best way to get an accurate estimate is to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Sterry. During this appointment, he’ll assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and provide a tailored quote based on your specific needs and surgical plan.
For a more detailed look at pricing factors, you can also read our blog post on tummy tuck cost considerations, which breaks down what goes into the fee and why it varies from patient to patient.
Worried about affordability? Many of our patients are pleasantly surprised to learn how manageable a tummy tuck can be with flexible financing options. We work with reputable third-party financing providers that offer convenient monthly payment plans, helping you move forward with your goals without putting financial strain on your budget. Investing in your confidence and comfort is more accessible than you might think.
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 Drainless Tummy Tuck?
A drainless tummy tuck uses layered suturing to eliminate the need for post-surgical drains. By securing the tissue layers together internally, this method helps reduce the space where fluid might otherwise accumulate, allowing the body to heal more comfortably and efficiently. The result is often a smoother recovery with fewer hassles—no drains to monitor or empty, and typically less swelling and tension at the incision site.
While not every patient is a candidate for a drainless approach, those who qualify often find it to be a welcome alternative. Not all surgeons offer this technique, as it requires specific training and a refined surgical skill set. Dr. Sterry is proud to provide this option for appropriate patients. His meticulous technique helps ensure a clean, natural-looking result—whether you’re undergoing a traditional or drainless tummy tuck.
Mini vs. Full Tummy Tuck: Which Is Right for You?
Dr. Sterry offers both full and mini tummy tuck procedures, tailoring each surgery to the patient’s unique needs. While most patients benefit more from a full abdominoplasty, a mini tummy tuck can be ideal for a select few. Here’s how to determine which approach may be right for you:
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A Full Tummy Tuck May Be Right for You If:
- You have excess skin above and/or below your bellybutton
- Your abdominal muscles have separated due to pregnancy or weight fluctuations
- You have stretch marks on your lower abdomen
A full abdominoplasty can restore a smoother, firmer abdominal contour by tightening loose skin, repairing muscle separation, and reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Most patients who want a significant transformation are best served with this comprehensive approach.
WARNING:
This feature contains nudity. Please click OK to confirm you are at least 18 years of age and are not offended by such material.
A Mini Tummy Tuck May Be Right for You If:
- You only have mild to moderate loose skin below your bellybutton
- You have little to no abdominal muscle separation
- You have a C-section scar you’d like to see improved
A mini tummy tuck is a more focused procedure with a smaller incision and a quicker recovery. While it doesn’t reposition the bellybutton or tighten muscles as extensively as a full tummy tuck, it can offer beautiful results for those with more localized concerns.
Full vs. Mini Tummy Tuck Comparison
| Benefit | Full Tummy Tuck | Mini Tummy Tuck |
|---|---|---|
| Tightens loose skin | Yes (above and below the navel) | Yes (below the navel only) |
| Repairs ab muscles | Yes | Yes (below the navel only) |
| Reshapes the navel | Yes | No |
| Removes C-section scar | Yes (creates a brand new scar) | Yes (creates a brand new scar) |
Your Consultation With Dr. Sterry
Dr. Sterry believes that a successful surgical outcome begins with a thoughtful, personalized consultation. That’s why he sets aside a full hour for each new patient, ensuring ample time to explore your goals, review your medical history, and answer every question in a relaxed, unhurried setting. Dr. Sterry listens carefully to your concerns and expectations, and in turn, offers honest, expert guidance tailored to your anatomy and aspirations.
During your visit, Dr. Sterry will walk you through the procedure using visual aids, including before-and-after photos of his own patients, to help you understand what’s possible. He’ll also perform a physical exam and take confidential photographs to aid in planning your treatment. If you’re considering multiple procedures or unsure which approach is best, he’ll help you weigh your options and recommend a plan that aligns with your vision. His goal is to make you feel like his only patient—respected, informed, and confident in your choices.
To learn more about what to expect and how to prepare, visit the Your Consultation page.
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.
Meet Dr. Sterry Request a ConsultationCredentials you can trust
Enhance Your Tummy Tuck Results With RibXcar
For patients seeking a more defined waistline alongside their tummy tuck, Dr. Sterry offers the RibXcar technique—a minimally invasive rib remodeling procedure that refines your natural curves without traditional rib removal. By reshaping specific ribs through a tiny, nearly invisible incision, RibXcar enhances the hourglass effect, delivering a sculpted silhouette with minimal scarring and a faster recovery.
Dr. Sterry is among the few surgeons in NYC offering this advanced technique. Combining RibXcar with a tummy tuck can elevate your results, providing a flatter abdomen and a more contoured waistline.
Your Procedure: What To Expect
Dr. Sterry customizes tummy tucks to suit each individual patient’s needs and goals to achieve the best possible outcome.
Before Your Surgery
- Determine if your surgery will take place at Dr. Sterry’s state-of-the-art surgical facility or in a fully accredited hospital.
- Arrange to have someone drive you home following the surgery.
- Dr. Sterry will mark your abdomen to ensure incisions are placed precisely, minimizing visible scarring.
- You’ll be given local anesthesia, nerve blocks, and sedation to keep you comfortable – in most cases general anesthesia isn’t necessary.
During Surgery
- Dr. Sterry will make a horizontal incision low on your abdomen just above the pubic area. The length of the incision depends on the needs and goals discussed during your consultation.
- If you’re having a full tummy tuck, Dr. Sterry will also make an incision around your bellybutton to release the overlying skin.
- Dr. Sterry then removes excess abdominal skin and reshapes your bellybutton for a natural look.
- If needed, your abdominal muscles will be repaired.
- If liposuction is part of your surgical plan, Dr. Sterry will contour areas such as your waist, flanks, and midsection
- Depending on the specifics of your procedure needs, Dr. Sterry may place drains to prevent fluid buildup. Some patients may be candidates for a drainless tummy tuck using a progressive tension suture technique.
After Surgery
- You’ll wake up in a recovery area where a nurse will monitor your care.
- You’ll likely feel groggy and may feel some tightness in your abdomen
- You’ll notice that a compression garment has been placed on you to help reduce swelling and support your healing abdomen.
- When medical staff have determined it’s safe to discharge you, you’ll be released into the care of a friend or loved one.
- We suggest having help in the first few days following surgery.
- Take pain medication as prescribed.
- Follow post-operative instructions for the best recovery outcome
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.
Abdominoplasty Recovery
Your 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
| Time Post Surgery | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 4 to 5 days | Surgical drains removed |
| 2 to 3 weeks | Return to school and nonstrenuous work |
| 3 weeks | Stop wearing compression garment |
| 6 weeks | Resume aerobic exercise (e.g., walking, stationary biking) |
| 3 months | Resume strenuous exercise (e.g., weightlifting, running, yoga) |
| 3 months | 80% healed |
| 6 months | 90% healed |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much weight do you lose with a tummy tuck?
Abdominoplasty is not a weight loss procedure. However, many patients appear significantly slimmer after surgery, often losing 2 to 3 dress or pant sizes. While weight loss is not the primary goal, patients may notice a reduction of several pounds due to the removal of excess skin and fat—typically around 5 to 10 pounds, depending on the extent of the procedure.
How do you know if you need liposuction or a tummy tuck?
The choice between a tummy tuck and liposuction depends on your goals. Liposuction removes excess fat but does not address sagging skin or separated abdominal muscles. A tummy tuck is necessary if you have “apron belly,” loose skin, weakened muscles, or stretch marks low on your abdomen. Dr. Sterry often combines the 2 procedures to achieve a smoother, flatter, more contoured midsection.
Can I still get pregnant after abdominoplasty?
While it is safe for most women to become pregnant after abdominoplasty, Dr. Sterry recommends waiting until you are done having children. Pregnancy after surgery may reverse many of the improvements, such as tightened skin and repaired muscles, making it likely that additional procedures would be needed.
How long does a tummy tuck last?
Abdominoplasty provides long-lasting results, especially if you maintain a stable weight and follow a healthy lifestyle. While the procedure tightens your abdominal muscles and removes excess skin, the natural aging process will continue. Over time, you may notice some minor skin laxity, but your overall results should last for many years. Significant weight fluctuations or pregnancy after your surgery could affect your results and may require additional procedures to restore your desired appearance.
Are tummy tucks worth the money?
Most patients say yes—especially those frustrated by loose skin or separated muscles. Tummy tucks have a 95% “Worth It” rating on RealSelf, reflecting high satisfaction. The procedure often improves both your appearance and your confidence, which can make a real difference in daily life.
Will any insurance cover a tummy tuck?
Tummy tucks are usually not covered by insurance since they’re considered cosmetic. In rare cases, coverage might be possible if the surgery addresses a medical issue like a hernia or chronic skin irritation. Dr. Sterry’s team can also explain your financing options to make the procedure more accessible.
At what age should you not have a tummy tuck?
There’s no set age limit. As long as you’re healthy and have realistic expectations, age isn’t a barrier—your overall health and goals matter most.
Can a tummy tuck get rid of my FUPA?
Yes, a tummy tuck often improves or removes a “FUPA”—short for fat upper pubic area—by tightening the lower abdomen and removing excess skin or fat. This area, just above the pubic bone, can become more prominent after weight changes or pregnancy. In some cases, liposuction is added for enhanced contouring. Dr. Sterry will tailor your procedure to your unique anatomy and goals.
Request Your Consultation
Learn more about board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Sterry and how he achieves superior 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....
Highly Recommend Dr. Sterry and His Team!
Dr. Sterry is not only incredibly skilled but also extremely...
Amazing! Liposuction, a thigh lift, tummy tuck, and a neck and face lift
Highly Recommend Dr. Sterry...
Thomas P. Sterry is a very reputable, respectful and amazing surgeon! I was fortunate to undergo his...
‘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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