Most patients notice immediate improvements after a tummy tuck, but it takes a few weeks for the post-surgical swelling to go down. That’s when you’ll start seeing a definite difference from the surgery. It can also take time for your abdominal muscles to adjust to the changes. Between six months and a year after your surgery, the last of the swelling will disappear, your scars will fade, and your abdomen will feel toned rather than tight. At that point, you’ll see and feel the dramatic enhancements from your procedure.