Is There a Way to Determine What You Will Look Like Before Your Actual Tummy Tuck?

       There is no reliable way to give an exact picture of this.  First, everyone scars differently.   Second, not everyone has the same tummy tuck - shorter scar vs extended.  Third, the techniques for performing a tummy tuck by the surgeons are different.  The best thing to do is consult with a board certified plastic surgeon who has done hundreds of these procedures.  Look at pictures on the website or in the office.  Good luck.

What you will look like after a tummy tuck depends on how much tissue needs to be removed, your bone structure and the surgical techniques used.  Every surgeon has a variation in technique which can change the final result.  There is no way to predict how you will look after a tummy tuck.  If you have all the proper indications for a tummy tuck there is an excellent chance that you will be happy.  It is important that you trust your surgeon and feel comfortable with what will be done.

A surgeon experienced with computer image simulation should be able to give you a reasonable approximation of your final tummy tuck result in the lateral position. The incision cannot be simulated but the change in contour can be estimated. It is also helpful to look at before and after photos online of patients with a similar height and weight. The supine method you mentioned should approximate muscle tightening, but it will not give you a good indication of skin excision. Best wishes.