Tummy Tuck Bellevue and Kirkland
Procedure Time
1-2 Hours
Recovery Time
1 Month
Starting from
$6995
Procedure Time
1-2 Hours
Recovery Time
1 Month
Tummy Tuck
Tummy Tuck Bellevue and Kirkland
If diet and exercise haven’t given you the flat and toned abdomen you want, you’re not alone. For many patients, pregnancy, weight loss, or genetics can leave behind loose skin and separated abdominal muscles that are difficult to correct. A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, offers a comprehensive body contouring option for Kirkland and Bellevue patients by tightening the abdominal muscles and removing stretched skin.
Performed by Dr. Ludwig Allegra and Dr. Tarak Patel, a tummy tuck surgery in Kirkland helps you achieve a flatter, more contoured abdomen. With over 50 years of combined surgical experience, Dr. Allegra and Dr. Patel have treated thousands of patients with careful planning and precise technique. Our practice holds a 4.7-star Google rating, making us a leading choice for the best tummy tuck in Kirkland.
What Is a Tummy Tuck?
What Is A Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?
A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. It can be a good option for patients who have stretched skin and want a flatter, firmer midsection.
While liposuction removes fat, it cannot correct loose skin or muscle separation on its own. This is why it is often combined with a tummy tuck to improve contour in areas like the flanks or upper abdomen. The incision is typically placed low on the abdomen, below the underwear or bikini line, so it is easier to conceal.
What Are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck?
- Removes loose or hanging skin and fat to flatten the stomach
- Repairs diastasis recti by tightening separated abdominal muscles
- Tightens abdominal muscles to create a firmer midsection
- Contours the waist to create a more sculpted shape
- Reduces stretch marks below the belly button by removing excess skin
- Helps with better clothing fit by refining overall torso
- Boosts confidence by addressing changes from pregnancy or weight loss
Are You a Candidate for a Tummy Tuck?
- Have loose or sagging abdominal skin.
- Notice a persistent “pooch” or bulge in your lower abdomen.
- Have separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti).
- Are at a stable, healthy weight.
- Are a non-smoker.
- Have realistic expectations about the results and recovery.
Comprehensive Muscle Repair Technique
Expert Surgical Team
The quality of the muscle repair is what defines a tummy tuck result. Dr. Allegra and Dr. Patel use a layered muscle repair technique that restores both form and function. It involves a meticulous reconstruction of your abdominal wall:
- Complete Visualization: We fully expose the abdominal muscles to accurately assess the degree of separation (diastasis recti).
- Precise Repair: Using permanent, high-strength sutures, we bring the muscles back to their natural midline position.
- Natural Contouring: Sutures are placed with careful attention to tension to recreate a flat, natural abdominal contour without an overly “tight” appearance.
- Core Reinforcement: The repair often includes strengthening of the underlying fascia to improve core stability from the inside out.
This technical approach is why our patients report many functional improvements, including:
- Improved posture and reduction in chronic lower back pain.
- Enhanced core strength and stability, making exercise more effective.
- Better abdominal support for daily activities.
Advanced Techniques at Northwest Face & Body
Northwest Face & Body utilizes progressive tension sutures and other advanced techniques to minimize scarring, reduce recovery time, and optimize your results. These innovative methods reduce the need for surgical drains and promote faster healing for patients in Bellevue and Kirkland. Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel will discuss which advanced techniques are appropriate for your specific case during your consultation.
Types of Tummy Tuck We Offer
Not every patient needs a full tummy tuck procedure. At Northwest Face & Body, we provide multiple tummy tuck options for Kirkland and Bellevue patients. These include:
Standard Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
A full tummy tuck treats the entire abdomen, from the pubic area to below the ribs. It removes excess skin and fat and tightens separated muscles.
Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel places a low horizontal incision along the bikini line. In most full tummy tuck procedures, the belly button is carefully repositioned to match the new abdominal shape. This option is ideal for patients with moderate to significant skin laxity and visible abdominal bulging who want comprehensive midsection improvement.
A mini tummy tuck focuses only on the lower abdomen, below the belly button. The surgery uses a shorter incision along the lower abdomen, and the belly button typically remains in its original position. Muscle tightening may be performed if needed, but it is generally less extensive than a full tummy tuck.
It is designed for patients who have mild excess skin or a small lower abdominal pouch but do not require full muscle repair or upper abdominal correction. This option is ideal for those who are close to their goal weight and want subtle improvement with a shorter recovery period.
An extended tummy tuck removes excess skin from both the abdomen and the flanks to create a more complete waistline contour. The incision extends slightly beyond the hips to allow removal of additional skin along the sides. This approach reshapes not only the midsection but also the surrounding torso for a more balanced silhouette. Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel may combine muscle repair and liposuction to refine the waist and improve definition.
This procedure is often recommended after significant weight loss and helps contour the waistline completely. It is especially beneficial for patients who have excess skin that extends beyond the front of the abdomen to the sides.
Fleur-de-Lis tummy tuck is used when there is significant loose skin both vertically and horizontally. In addition to the horizontal incision along the lower abdomen, our surgeon places a vertical incision in the midline to remove additional skin. This dual-direction tightening creates a firmer, more defined contour.
The Fleur-de-Lis approach is ideal for those who require maximum skin removal and want a tighter overall abdominal profile. It’s commonly chosen by patients after major weight loss or bariatric surgery.
Tummy Tuck Before and After Gallery
View our before-and-after gallery to see the real improvements patients have achieved through personalized surgical planning by Dr. Allegra and Dr. Patel.
Combining Your Tummy Tuck
Many of our Bellevue and Kirkland patients want a more balanced look throughout the body. Combining a tummy tuck with other procedures in a single surgery can reduce recovery period and overall costs compared to having separate procedures. Our surgeons are highly experienced in planning and performing these combined surgeries. Most commonly chosen combinations include:
- Breast augmentation to restore volume lost after breastfeeding
- Breast lift to address sagging and improve breast position
- Breast reduction for better body proportions and comfort
- Vaginal rejuvenation for complete post-pregnancy restoration
Tummy tuck can also be combined with additional body contouring procedures, including:
- Brazilian butt lift using fat transfer for added curves and volume
- Arm lift to address loose upper arm skin
- Thigh lift for comprehensive lower body contouring
- Body lift procedures for post-weight-loss patients, which can involve circumferential lifts to remove excess skin from the abdomen, back, and other areas
Whether a combination surgery is right for you depends on your overall health, surgical goals, and the specific procedures you are considering.
Why Choose Northwest Face & Body for Tummy Tuck in Kirkland?
- We use advanced stitching techniques, including progressive tension sutures, to reduce pulling on the skin and help lower the risk of fluid buildup.
- We offer Exparel®, a long-acting local anaesthetic, to help minimize discomfort in the first 2–3 days after surgery.
- Patients can choose combination procedures to enhance overall results.
- We offer transparent starting pricing with multiple financing options.
- Our convenient Kirkland location allows for easier follow-ups and recovery support.
- Dr. Allegra and Dr. Patel prioritize careful tissue handling, precise contouring, and realistic goal-setting to reduce risk and deliver long-lasting results.
What to Expect at Your Tummy Tuck Consultation
On the day of your consultation, you’ll meet with our providers and discuss your goals, medical history, and any concerns you may have about scarring or long-term results. Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel will carefully evaluate your abdomen and explain which tummy tuck option best fits your body and expectations. You’ll review before-and-after photos, talk through recovery and safety, and receive a clear cost outline, so you leave feeling informed, comfortable, and confident in your decision.
How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?
A tummy tuck at Northwest Face & Body starts at $6,995. The total cost depends on the type of procedure (mini, full, or extended), whether liposuction is added, anesthesia fees, and facility expenses. During your consultation, you’ll receive a clear, all-inclusive quote based on your personalized surgical plan.
Tummy Tuck Recovery in Kirkland
A tummy tuck reshapes and tightens the abdominal wall, so giving your body proper time to heal is essential for the best result. Most patients in Bellevue and Kirkland return to light daily activities within 2–3 weeks, but full healing takes longer. You’ll need to avoid heavy lifting and strenuous exercise for about 6–8 weeks to protect your muscle repair and incisions.
During the first week, swelling, bruising, and tightness are normal. Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel will provide detailed post-operative instructions and prescribe medication to help manage discomfort. You’ll wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support healing tissues. Gentle walking is encouraged soon after surgery to promote circulation and lower the risk of blood clots. Every patient heals differently, and your recovery plan will be personalized based on your procedure.
When Revision Tummy Tuck Surgery May Be Considered
- Have experienced significant weight changes
- Had a pregnancy after initial procedure
- Developed concerns about scar appearance
- Want further contour improvement.
Book Your Tummy Tuck Consultation in Kirkland
If you’re ready to feel more confident in your midsection, now is the time to take the next step. A tummy tuck can create long-lasting improvement in abdominal shape and comfort when diet and exercise aren’t enough. Contact Northwest Face & Body at (425) 546-0854 today to schedule your visit and begin your body contouring journey in Kirkland.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tummy Tuck in Bellevue and Kirkland
How long does tummy tuck surgery take?
A full tummy tuck typically takes 2 to 3 hours. Extended procedures or combination surgeries may require additional time. The exact duration depends on the complexity of your case and whether you’re combining your tummy tuck with other procedures.
Does insurance pay for a tummy tuck in Kirkland and Bellevue?
A tummy tuck is usually considered cosmetic and is not covered by insurance. Coverage may be possible only in rare cases involving medical necessity, such as hernia repair.
What is the best age to get a tummy tuck?
There is no specific best age for a tummy tuck. Our surgeons recommend waiting until childbearing is complete and body weight has stabilized.
How painful is a tummy tuck?
Most patients experience tightness, soreness, and swelling during the first week. Discomfort is typically manageable with prescribed medication and improves gradually.
Will my tummy be flat after a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck can make your stomach significantly flatter by removing loose skin and tightening separated muscles. While most patients see a smoother, firmer contour, your final result depends on your body type, skin quality, and maintaining a stable weight.
Who cannot have a tummy tuck?
Patients who have uncontrolled medical conditions, are actively smoking, or are planning future pregnancies may not be ideal candidates for a tummy tuck in Bellevue and Kirkland. A consultation with Dr. Patel or Dr. Allegra determines whether surgery is safe for you.
At what weight should I get a tummy tuck?
It’s best to be at or near your goal weight before surgery. Being significantly overweight can increase risks and affect your tummy tuck results.
Is a tummy tuck a high-risk surgery?
A tummy tuck is a major surgical procedure and carries risks like any other surgery. Choosing a qualified surgeon and following post-operative instructions can help minimize those risks.
How much weight do you lose with a tummy tuck in Bellevue?
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure, though you may lose 5 to 10 pounds from the removed skin and fat. The primary goal is contouring and tightening, not weight reduction. If significant weight loss is needed, Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel may recommend achieving your goal weight before scheduling your tummy tuck.
Can men get tummy tucks in Bellevue and Kirkland?
A tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure, though you may lose 5 to 10 pounds from the removed skin and fat. The primary goal is contouring and tightening, not weight reduction. Patients should be near their ideal weight before surgery for the best results. If significant weight loss is needed, Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel may recommend achieving your goal weight before scheduling your tummy tuck.
Can men get tummy tucks in Bellevue and Kirkland?
Absolutely. Male tummy tucks are increasingly popular in Bellevue, particularly for men who have lost significant weight or want to address age-related changes. Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel customizes the procedure to maintain masculine contours while achieving a flatter, more athletic abdomen. Men benefit from the same functional and aesthetic improvements as female patients.
What is the ideal body for tummy tuck surgery?
Absolutely. Male tummy tucks are increasingly popular in Bellevue and Kirkland, particularly for men who have lost significant weight or want to address age-related changes. Dr. Allegra or Dr. Patel customizes the procedure to maintain masculine contours while achieving a flatter, more athletic abdomen. Men benefit from the same functional and aesthetic improvements as female patients.