Tummy Tuck in Carmel & Indianapolis
Remove excess abdominal skin and tighten separated muscles with Indiana's leading board-certified practice. Drainless technique available.
What Is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?
An abdominoplasty — commonly called a tummy tuck — is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the mid and lower abdomen while repairing the abdominal wall. Skin and fat are removed, the upper abdominal skin is pulled taut, and the rectus abdominal muscles — often stretched or separated by pregnancy or weight changes — are pulled back together with sutures, narrowing the waistline like an internal corset.
A new opening is created for the navel, which is preserved throughout, resulting in a natural-looking belly button position. The result is a flatter, smoother, more defined midsection that diet and exercise alone cannot achieve once skin elasticity is lost.
My Plastic Surgery Group has performed over 1,000 tummy tuck surgeries in Indianapolis and Carmel — one of the most rewarding procedures we offer, with consistently overwhelming patient satisfaction.
Dr. Aker's Drainless Abdominoplasty Technique
One of the most common complaints about traditional tummy tucks is the postoperative drain — uncomfortable tubes left in place for 1–2 weeks. Dr. Aker has perfected and brought to Indianapolis a drainless tummy tuck technique, originally developed by Dr. Harlan Pollock in Dallas.
The technique uses additional sutures placed during surgery to close the space where fluid normally accumulates — eliminating drains in qualifying patients. These sutures also distribute closure tension throughout the abdomen rather than just at the scar line, for a better long-term cosmetic result. All sutures self-dissolve beneath the skin, and a clear waterproof dressing allows showering immediately after surgery.
Who Is a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
Anyone who desires improved abdominal contour and is in reasonably good health may be a candidate. Key factors Dr. Aker evaluates:
- In good general health (chronic conditions may need addressing first)
- Within ~20 lbs of target weight (BMI 25 ideal; BMI over 35 requires caution)
- Completely nicotine-free before surgery
- Excess abdominal skin from pregnancy, weight loss, or aging
- Muscle separation (diastasis recti) causing a protruding lower abdomen
- Realistic expectations and commitment to a stable weight afterward
You Don't Recover Alone
After surgery, you're driven to our dedicated recovery suite at Home2 Suites by Hilton in Carmel, where one of our caregivers — Evelyn, Lori, or Charmaine — meets you in the lobby and provides monitored overnight care, with a direct line to Dr. Aker, Dr. Beckman, and PA Amanda. You're never sent home to an empty house.
Learn About the Recovery SuiteTummy Tuck Recovery Timeline
Recovery is gradual — steady progress, not instant results, is the hallmark. What to expect:
- Hospital stay: typically 23 hours following surgery
- First week: rest and limited mobility; most patients walk slightly bent due to skin tension, improving daily
- Return to work: light office work at ~1 week; 2 weeks is ideal
- Posture: slight forward lean for 7–10 days as the skin adjusts
- Swelling: improves over 12–16 weeks; final results appear as it resolves
- Exercise: light walking encouraged early; strenuous activity cleared at ~4–6 weeks
Tummy Tuck Cost in Indiana
Standard pricing varies with surgical complexity, body type, and whether muscle repair, the drainless technique, or combination procedures (such as liposuction) are involved. A consultation is required for a personalized quote — financing options available.
Related Procedures
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a drainless tummy tuck?
How much does a tummy tuck cost in Indiana?
Who is a good candidate for a tummy tuck?
How long is tummy tuck recovery?
Will I have a scar after a tummy tuck?
Take the First Step Toward a Flatter Midsection
Schedule your consultation with Dr. John Aker or Dr. Di Beckman in Carmel, Indiana. 4.8★ rated · 1,000+ abdominoplasties performed · drainless technique available.