No idea where to start looking for tummy tuck doctor - what questions should I ask & what are red flags?

Find surgeons in your area, then research each as to years of experience. Call the office of each and ask how many abdominoplasties they performed the previous year, then look at their reviews on Real self, and google.
If they do not perform at least 20-30 per year, you may want to look elsewhere. If they perform enough, and they have good reviews, then look at prices.
Good luck,

Greg Sexton, M.D.
Columbia, S.C.

Thank you for your question regarding how to start looking for a tummy tuck doctor and what to consider during your search. I completely understand the struggles that come with navigating this journey on your own, and I commend you for doing your due diligence and coming to RealSelf to get more information. It's important to approach this decision with careful consideration to ensure you choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who can provide safe and satisfying results.

Questions to Ask:

Are you board-certified in plastic surgery? Board certification ensures that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and meets specific qualifications.
How many tummy tucks have you performed? Experience matters, especially for complex procedures like tummy tucks.
Can I see before and after photos of your previous tummy tuck patients? This helps you gauge the quality and consistency of the surgeon’s results.
What technique will you use for my tummy tuck? Understanding the approach can help set realistic expectations.
What can I expect during recovery? Knowing the recovery process helps in planning and preparation.
What are the risks and complications associated with a tummy tuck? A trustworthy surgeon will discuss potential risks openly.

Red Flags:

Lack of board certification in plastic surgery. Surgeons without this may not have undergone the extensive training necessary for cosmetic surgery procedures.
Unwillingness to show before and after photos. Transparency about past work is crucial.
Promises of unrealistic results. Be wary of surgeons who promise perfection or downplay the risks.
Pressure to make quick decisions. High-pressure sales tactics are inappropriate for medical decisions.
Negative reviews or malpractice suits. While one bad review doesn’t necessarily mean a surgeon isn’t good, a pattern of negative feedback should be taken seriously.

Digging into a Doctor’s Background:

Check their credentials through the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Look up reviews and testimonials from previous patients.
Verify their hospital affiliations and whether they have privileges to perform cosmetic surgery.
Inquire about their standing with the state medical board to see if there have been any disciplinary actions.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Consider the location and the facility where the surgery will be performed.
Ensure that the surgery center is accredited by a recognized organization.
Discuss all costs upfront to avoid any hidden fees.

Feel comfortable with your surgeon; you should feel that they listen to and understand your goals.
Taking these steps will help you make an informed decision and choose a surgeon who is best suited to your needs and expectations.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Hello! Congratulations on beginning your journey! To find the best doctor for you, I would recommend looking for board-certified plastic surgeons in your areas that have before and afters that you like the look of on their website.
American Board of Plastic Surgery - You can search doctors on this website to make sure they are board certified in this specialty. The "plastic surgery" part is important here. You want your surgeon to be board certified in at least this specialty (instead of general surgery or dentistry).
Multiple Consultations - Even if you love your first doctor, I would recommend going to a maximum of 3 different consultations at different practices. You may notice that treatment plans look different and that you might vibe better with a different type of bedside manner. Plan to spend $100-200 on each of these consultations. I don't recommend more than 3 consultations, as the options can get overwhelming instead of helpful.
Online research is helpful, but there is a limit - Get educated on tummy tucks of all kinds and expected recovery. When you are 100% comfortable with the procedure, start calling specific practices and asking questions to their team directly.
As far as red flags, trust your gut. If you aren't 100% sure about a physician, continue your consultations until you find the right one for you.