Tummy Tuck Cost in Chicago: 2026 Price Guide

How much does a tummy tuck cost? At Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics, abdominoplasty starts at $9,995 for a mini tummy tuck, $12,995 for a full tummy tuck, and $14,995* for a lipoabdominoplasty. Extended tummy tuck pricing starts at $10,995 and ranges to $19,995 or more depending on the extent of skin removal. Every quote is all-inclusive, covering your surgeon, anesthesia, AAAHC-accredited facility, compression garments, and one year of follow-up visits.

What Is a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)?

A tummy tuck, medically called abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and tightens the underlying muscle wall. For many patients, it also includes repair of diastasis recti, the separation of the left and right abdominal muscles that commonly occurs after pregnancy or significant weight fluctuations.

The procedure is not a weight loss tool. It is designed for patients who are at or near a stable weight but have loose, hanging skin and weakened muscles that will not respond to diet and exercise. If you have been working out consistently but your midsection still does not reflect your effort, abdominoplasty is designed to address the structural issues that fitness alone cannot fix.

Diastasis recti repair is a key component for many patients. When the abdominal muscles separate, they create a visible bulge or “pooch” that core exercises will not flatten. During a tummy tuck, your surgeon sutures the muscles back together along the midline. This is designed to restore a tighter, flatter abdominal wall and often reduces the lower back discomfort caused by weakened core support.

Types of Tummy Tuck: Comparison

	Mini Tummy Tuck	Full Tummy Tuck	Extended Tummy Tuck	Lipoabdominoplasty
Starting Price	$9,995*	$12,995*	$10,995* to $19,995*+	$14,995*
Best For	Patients with mild skin laxity below the belly button and minimal muscle separation	Patients with moderate to significant skin excess, stretch marks, and diastasis recti across the full abdomen	Post-weight-loss patients (GLP-1, bariatric) with skin excess extending to flanks and lower back	Patients wanting full abdominal tightening plus 360-degree body contouring
Incision	Shorter, low horizontal incision below the bikini line	Hip-to-hip incision plus belly button repositioning	Extended incision wrapping around the flanks and potentially the lower back	Hip-to-hip incision with additional liposuction access points
Muscle Repair	Limited or none	Full diastasis recti repair	Full diastasis recti repair	Full diastasis recti repair
Liposuction Included	Typically no	May include limited lipo	May include lipo for blending	Yes, Lipo 360 of abdomen, flanks, and lower back
Recovery (Off Work)	7 to 10 days	10 to 14 days	14 to 21 days	10 to 14 days
Scarring	Shorter scar, often concealable in underwear	Longer hip-to-hip scar, hidden below the bikini line	Longest incision, extending around the sides	Similar to full tummy tuck

*All prices are subject to change and reflect starting prices. Final cost depends on anatomy, technique, anesthesia type, and whether procedures are combined. An individualized quote is provided during consultation.

Your surgeon will recommend the right type based on your anatomy, how much skin needs to be removed, whether your muscles need repair, and your contouring goals. Many patients come in thinking they need one type and learn during their consultation that a different approach may give them a better result.

What’s Included in Your Quote

Every abdominoplasty quote at Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics is all-inclusive. Your quoted tummy tuck cost covers:

• Surgeon’s fee for the complete procedure, including muscle repair and skin removal
• Board-certified anesthesiologist (anesthesia is included in your quoted price so you know the total upfront, billed separately as a professional service)
• AAAHC-accredited surgical facility meeting the same safety standards as hospital outpatient centers
• Diastasis recti repair when indicated (included in the surgical fee, not billed separately)
• Compression garments to support your midsection during healing
• One year of follow-up visits with your surgeon and care team
• Drain management and removal during your post-operative appointments

When comparing tummy tuck costs across providers, make sure you are comparing equivalent quotes. Some practices advertise a lower “surgeon’s fee” but bill anesthesia, facility, garments, and follow-up separately. By the time you add everything up, the total may exceed an all-inclusive quote.

What Drives the Cost of Abdominoplasty

Not every tummy tuck costs the same because not every abdomen presents the same challenges. Here is what influences your final price.

Type of procedure. A mini tummy tuck addressing only the lower abdomen costs less than a full abdominoplasty, which costs less than an extended tummy tuck removing skin around the flanks and back. Each step up means a longer incision, more time in the operating room, and higher anesthesia costs.

Diastasis recti repair. Repairing separated abdominal muscles adds complexity and operating time. At Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics, muscle repair is included in your all-inclusive quote rather than billed as an add-on.

Liposuction inclusion. A lipoabdominoplasty combines a tummy tuck with Lipo 360 for 360-degree contouring of the waist, flanks, and lower back. Adding liposuction increases surgical time, and the broader scope of contouring is why it costs more than a standalone tummy tuck.

Surgeon specialization and case volume. Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong, a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, and Dr. Kevin Lin, a board-certified plastic surgeon, both specialize in body contouring and perform abdominoplasty multiple times per week. Surgeons who operate at that frequency develop sharper judgment about incision placement, muscle repair tension, and how different body types heal. That experience is reflected in both pricing and outcomes.

Facility accreditation. Surgery at an AAAHC-accredited facility costs more than a procedure in a non-accredited office suite. That difference pays for stricter safety protocols, emergency preparedness, ongoing quality audits, and accredited anesthesia services.

Combination procedures. Many patients combine abdominoplasty with breast surgery as part of a mommy makeover. Combining procedures in a single surgical session can be more cost-effective than staging them separately because you share anesthesia and facility time.

Tummy Tuck vs. Liposuction: Which Do You Need?

This is one of the most common questions from patients researching body contouring. The distinction matters because choosing the wrong procedure can mean a second surgery later.

Liposuction removes fat. A tummy tuck removes skin and tightens muscle. They address different problems, and one cannot substitute for the other.

You may be a liposuction candidate if: – You have good skin elasticity (skin will snap back after fat removal) – Your concern is stubborn fat deposits, not loose or hanging skin – Your abdominal muscles are intact (no diastasis recti) – You’re at or near your goal weight with localized fat that won’t budge with diet and exercise

You likely need a tummy tuck if: – You have loose, hanging, or wrinkled skin on your abdomen – Your skin drapes over your waistband or bikini line – You have separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) from pregnancy or weight changes – Your skin has lost elasticity and won’t tighten on its own, even with significant weight loss

You may benefit from a lipoabdominoplasty if: – You have both excess skin and stubborn fat deposits around the midsection – You want a tighter abdominal wall plus contouring of the waist, flanks, and lower back – You want the fullest possible result from a single surgery

Some patients come in wanting liposuction because the recovery is shorter. But if your anatomy actually requires skin removal and muscle repair, lipo alone will not deliver the result you are looking for. During your consultation, your surgeon evaluates skin quality, muscle integrity, and fat distribution to recommend the right approach. Choosing lipo when you need a tuck can leave you with sagging skin and visible wrinkling that undermines the entire investment.

Post-Weight-Loss Tummy Tuck

If you have lost 60, 80, or 100+ pounds through GLP-1 medication, bariatric surgery, or sustained lifestyle changes, your body has been through a significant change. The frustrating reality is that major weight loss often leaves behind excess skin that no amount of exercise will tighten. This is the fastest growing patient segment at Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics, and the surgical approach is different from a standard abdominoplasty.

What’s different about post-weight-loss anatomy:

• More skin, different distribution. After major weight loss, excess skin typically extends beyond the front of the abdomen. It wraps around the flanks and lower back. That is why an extended tummy tuck or a circumferential body lift may be recommended instead of a standard full tummy tuck. The wider the distribution, the longer the incision and the more OR time required.
• Skin quality changes. Skin that has been stretched significantly loses elasticity. It will not tighten on its own, and it will not respond to treatments like radiofrequency or laser skin tightening. Surgical removal is generally the most effective way to address hanging skin after major weight loss.
• Multiple areas affected. Post-weight-loss patients rarely have concerns limited to the abdomen alone. Arms, thighs, breasts, and flanks may all need attention. Your surgeon may recommend staging procedures over multiple sessions for safety.
• Timing matters. Most surgeons recommend waiting until your weight has been stable for at least 3 to 6 months before pursuing abdominoplasty. If you are on a GLP-1 medication, discuss your timeline with both your prescribing physician and your surgeon.

GLP-1 patients specifically: You did the hard work. You changed your habits, committed to the medication, and lost a significant amount of weight. Feeling frustrated by hanging skin that hides your progress is completely valid. Many patients describe feeling like their body still does not reflect the effort they have put in. An extended abdominoplasty addresses that gap between how you feel and how your body looks.

Average cost for post-weight-loss abdominoplasty: $10,995 to $19,995+, depending on the extent of skin removal, whether the procedure is a standard extended tuck or a circumferential body lift, and whether liposuction is included for additional contouring.

Post-Baby Tummy Tuck

If you are done having children and your body has not bounced back despite consistent effort, you are not alone. Pregnancy stretches the abdominal skin, separates the underlying muscles, and often leaves behind a “mom pooch” or C-section shelf that core exercises will not flatten. These are structural changes, not fitness failures.

What post-baby patients typically need:

• Diastasis recti repair. The separated muscles create a visible bulge and weaken your core. Repair involves suturing the muscles back together, which is designed to restore both the flat appearance and functional core strength.
• Skin removal. Stretched skin with stretch marks, especially from multiple pregnancies or twins, will not retract to its pre-pregnancy state. The tummy tuck removes that excess skin and tightens what remains.
• C-section scar revision. If you’ve had C-sections, the existing scar tissue is typically removed and replaced by the tummy tuck incision, which sits lower and is easier to conceal.

Combining with breast procedures. Many post-baby patients combine their tummy tuck with a breast augmentation, breast lift, or both as part of a mommy makeover. Combining procedures means one anesthesia session, one recovery period, and often a lower total cost than staging them separately.

Recovery with kids. This is the number one logistical concern for moms considering abdominoplasty. You will need help with lifting, bending, and childcare for at least the first 2 weeks. Most patients line up their partner, family, or a postpartum-style helper. You will not be able to lift children or heavy objects for 4 to 6 weeks. Planning this in advance makes the recovery manageable.

Cost justification. Spending $12,995* or more on yourself can feel difficult to justify when you have a family. Many patients wrestle with this. The reality is that diastasis recti contributes to back pain and core instability, and abdominoplasty addresses those functional issues alongside the cosmetic ones. It is an investment in your physical comfort and your quality of life.

Recovery Timeline by Procedure Type

	Mini Tummy Tuck	Full Abdominoplasty	Extended Tummy Tuck	Lipoabdominoplasty
Time Off Work	7 to 10 days	10 to 14 days	14 to 21 days	10 to 14 days
Surgical Drains	Usually none	1 to 2 weeks	1 to 3 weeks	1 to 2 weeks
Compression Garment	4 to 6 weeks	6 to 8 weeks	6 to 8 weeks	6 to 8 weeks
Light Activity	1 to 2 weeks	2 to 3 weeks	3 to 4 weeks	2 to 3 weeks
Return to Exercise	4 to 6 weeks	6 to 8 weeks	8 to 12 weeks	6 to 8 weeks
Final Results Visible	3 to 6 months	6 to 12 months	6 to 12 months	6 to 12 months

All recovery timelines are general guidelines. Your surgeon will provide personalized instructions based on your specific procedure and healing progress. For detailed preparation and post-op care, read the full tummy tuck recovery tips guide.

What to expect in the first two weeks: Swelling, tightness, and bruising are normal. You will walk in a slightly bent position for the first few days as your body adjusts to the tighter abdominal skin. Drains, if placed, collect fluid and are typically removed at your first or second follow-up visit. Your compression garment supports the healing tissue and helps manage swelling. Most patients describe the discomfort as a “tight, sore” feeling rather than sharp pain.

Red Flags in Tummy Tuck Pricing

A lower price is not automatically a red flag, but certain patterns should prompt more questions.

• Quotes that don’t include anesthesia or facility fees. If the advertised price is “surgeon’s fee only,” your total cost may be thousands more than the number you saw.
• No facility accreditation. If a provider performs abdominoplasty in a non-accredited office suite, they may not meet established safety standards for emergency preparedness and infection control.
• No board certification in a surgical specialty. The surgeon performing your tummy tuck should be board-certified in plastic surgery or cosmetic surgery. Ask specifically which board.
• Unusually low pricing. When the average cost of a tummy tuck in a major metro area ranges from $10,000 to $18,000+, a quote of $5,000 to $6,000 and up likely means reduced surgical time, less experienced staff, or a non-accredited facility.
• Pressure to book immediately. Legitimate practices give you time to make an informed decision. High-pressure deposit demands during a first consultation are a warning sign.
• Limited or no before-and-after gallery. A surgeon who regularly performs abdominoplasty should have an extensive portfolio of real patient results. Check the before and after gallery for examples.

Financing Your Tummy Tuck

Most patients do not pay the full amount upfront. Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics partners with three financing companies to offer monthly payment plans:

• CareCredit offers promotional financing periods with low or no interest for qualifying applicants
• Cherry provides flexible monthly payment plans with a quick approval process
• Alphaeon Credit offers extended payment terms for larger procedure costs

You can apply for financing before or after your consultation. Your patient coordinator can walk you through payment options and help you understand your monthly cost based on the plan you choose. Knowing your financing approval in advance helps you have a productive conversation about procedure options during your consultation.

Why Patients Choose Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics

Specialist-match model. You are not assigned to whichever surgeon has availability. You are matched with a board-certified surgeon who focuses specifically on abdominoplasty and body contouring. Dr. Truong, a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon, and Dr. Kevin Lin, a board-certified plastic surgeon, both perform abdominoplasty multiple times per week. That volume means they have seen the full spectrum of anatomy, from post-pregnancy diastasis to 100-pound weight loss cases, and can calibrate each procedure accordingly.

Natural results, not overdone ones. “Natural looking” is the number one phrase patients write on their intake forms. Every abdominoplasty is planned to produce a result that looks and feels like your own body. Tighter, flatter, and more proportionate to your frame.

A care team that goes above and beyond. Choosing surgery is a significant investment in both time and money, and our patient care team is known for matching that commitment. Patients mention their coordinators by name in reviews: Monika, Lauren, Jenny, Caroline, Nikki, and Jolina. They respond to texts on nights, weekends, and holidays. They walk you through every step from your first inquiry to your final recovery visit. For many patients, this relationship is the reason they chose CBB over other practices.

AAAHC-accredited facility. Your surgery is performed in a facility that meets the same safety standards as hospital outpatient centers. This includes emergency protocols, accredited anesthesia services, and regular quality audits.

Travel-friendly for out-of-state patients. We see patients from all over the country. Approximately 40% travel to Chicago for their procedure. Our team helps coordinate travel and arrangements, and we offer virtual consultations and virtual follow-ups so you do not have to be local to get the same level of care. Complimentary virtual consultations (regularly a $250 value) make the initial planning straightforward regardless of where you live.

Transparent, all-inclusive pricing. Your quoted price is your final price. Anesthesia, facility, garments, and follow-up are all included. You know your total abdominoplasty cost before you commit. Check the full pricing page for current starting rates.

What Most Blogs Get Wrong About Tummy Tuck Cost

Most pricing guides quote a national average for abdominoplasty, usually somewhere between $6,000 and $12,000 from sources like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. That number is misleading for two reasons.

First, national averages typically reflect the surgeon’s fee only. They do not include anesthesia, facility costs, compression garments, or follow-up care. When you add those line items, the actual out-of-pocket cost is significantly higher than the quoted average.

Second, not all tummy tucks are the same procedure. A mini tummy tuck addressing a small pocket of lower abdominal skin is a fundamentally different operation than an extended abdominoplasty with diastasis recti repair and liposuction for a post-weight-loss patient. Quoting one “average cost” for both obscures the fact that your anatomy, your goals, and the expertise of your surgeon determine your price.

The better question is not “how much does the tummy tuck cost?” It is “what am I getting for that cost, and who is performing it?” An all-inclusive quote from a board-certified specialist at an accredited facility may cost more upfront than a stripped-down surgeon’s fee from an unaccredited office. But the total value, safety, and outcome are not comparable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does abdominoplasty cost in Chicago?

A mini tummy tuck starts at $9,995, a full tummy tuck starts at $12,995, and a lipoabdominoplasty starts at $14,995. Extended abdominoplasty ranges from $10,995 to $19,995*+. All quotes are all-inclusive.

How much does a tummy tuck cost with liposuction?

A tummy tuck with liposuction starts at $14,995* for a lipoabdominoplasty, which combines a full tummy tuck with Lipo 360. This includes liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, and lower back for 360-degree contouring plus skin removal and muscle repair. Adding liposuction shapes the waist and flanks at the same time, so you get contouring and skin removal in one surgery.

What is the difference between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck?

A mini tummy tuck uses a shorter incision and focuses only on the area below the belly button, typically without belly button repositioning or extensive muscle repair. A full tummy tuck addresses the entire abdominal wall with a hip-to-hip incision, full diastasis recti repair, belly button repositioning, and removal of more excess skin. Your surgeon will recommend the right option based on your anatomy.

Does insurance cover a tummy tuck?

No, a cosmetic tummy tuck is not covered by health insurance. A panniculectomy, which removes a large apron of hanging skin causing documented medical issues such as rashes, infections, or mobility limitations, may qualify for coverage. Your surgeon can advise whether your situation meets medical necessity criteria. Cosmetic abdominoplasty can be financed through CareCredit, Cherry, or Alphaeon.

How much does the tummy tuck cost for post-weight-loss patients?

$10,995 to $19,995+ for an extended tummy tuck, which is the most common type for post-weight-loss patients. The final price depends on the extent of skin removal and whether liposuction is included. GLP-1 and bariatric surgery patients may have skin excess extending beyond the front of the abdomen, requiring a longer incision and more surgical time.

What is diastasis recti and does a tummy tuck fix it?

Yes, a full tummy tuck repairs diastasis recti. Diastasis recti is the separation of the left and right rectus abdominis muscles along the midline, commonly caused by pregnancy (especially multiples or C-sections) or significant weight fluctuations. During a full abdominoplasty, your surgeon sutures these muscles back together, restoring a flatter abdominal profile and improving core stability. This repair is included in your all-inclusive quote.

How long is tummy tuck recovery?

Most full tummy tuck patients take 10 to 14 days off work, wear a compression garment for 6 to 8 weeks, and return to exercise at 6 to 8 weeks. Mini tummy tuck recovery is shorter, with most patients back to work in 7 to 10 days. Read the full tummy tuck recovery tips guide for detailed preparation advice.

Can I combine an abdominoplasty with breast surgery?

Yes, this is one of the most common procedure combinations, often called a mommy makeover. Combining a tummy tuck with a breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction means one anesthesia session and one recovery period. It can also be more cost-effective than staging surgeries separately because you share operating time and facility costs. Your surgeon will advise on safe combinations during your consultation.

What does a tummy tuck scar look like?

The scar runs horizontally from hip to hip for a full tummy tuck, positioned low enough to be concealed by underwear and swimwear. A mini tummy tuck scar is shorter and sits even lower. Scars fade significantly over 12 to 18 months and can be further improved with scar management treatments. Your surgeon can show you expected scar placement during your consultation. View real patient results in the before and after gallery.

Am I a candidate for abdominoplasty if my BMI is over 30?

Ideal candidates have a BMI of 32 or less. Higher BMI levels may increase surgical complexity and complication risk. In some cases, your surgeon may recommend reaching a lower weight before proceeding to optimize safety and results. A consultation is the way to discuss your individual situation, goals, and timeline. You can see real outcomes from patients with similar body types in the plus-size tummy tuck photos gallery.

How much does a tummy tuck cost per month with financing?

A full tummy tuck at $12,995 financed over 60 months may result in monthly payments in the range of $250 to $350. Your exact monthly cost depends on your financing plan, term length, interest rate, and total procedure cost. Apply with CareCredit, Cherry, or Alphaeon before your consultation to know your budget in advance.

Do I need a tummy tuck or just liposuction?

It depends on your skin quality and muscle integrity. If your primary concern is stubborn fat deposits but your skin has good elasticity and your abdominal muscles are intact, liposuction may be sufficient. If you have loose or hanging skin, stretch marks on the lower abdomen, or separated muscles (diastasis recti), you need a tummy tuck to address those structural issues. Many patients benefit from a lipoabdominoplasty that combines both. Your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy during your consultation and recommend the right approach.

Clinical Evidence and Sources

1. Hensel, J.M., et al. “An Outcomes Analysis and Satisfaction Survey of 199 Consecutive Abdominoplasties.” Annals of Plastic Surgery, vol. 46, no. 4, 2001, pp. 357-363. doi:10.1097/00000637-200104000-00003

2. Nahas, F.X., et al. “Rectus Diastasis: Treatment and Classification.” Clinics in Plastic Surgery, vol. 47, no. 3, 2020, pp. 381-393. doi:10.1016/j.cps.2020.02.002

3. Swanson, E. “Prospective Outcome Study of 360 Patients Treated with Liposuction, Lipoabdominoplasty, and Abdominoplasty.” Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, vol. 129, no. 4, 2012, pp. 965-978. doi:10.1097/PRS.0b013e318244217f

4. Matarasso, A. “Classification and Patient Selection for Abdominoplasty.” Operative Techniques in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, vol. 3, no. 1, 1996, pp. 7-14.

5. American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAHC). “Accreditation Standards.” aaahc.org

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This content has been reviewed by Dr. Anh-Tuan Truong, triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon (American Board of Surgery, American Board of Cosmetic Surgery, American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery), Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS), Fellow of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (FAACS), and Dr. Kevin Lin, board-certified plastic surgeon, at Chicago Breast & Body Aesthetics.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results may vary. A consultation with a board-certified surgeon is necessary to determine candidacy, expected outcomes, and personalized pricing. All pricing is subject to change and reflects starting rates as of the publication date.