An abdominoplasty, whether partial (“mini-tummy tuck”) or complete (“full tummy-tuck”), produces excellent results for patients with weakened abdominal muscles or excess skin. In most cases, the results are “permanent” if you follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly. Note: Patients with stria (stretch marks) above the umbilicus (belly button) may notice that the skin below the bellybutton loosens up several months after surgery. This is because the skin is damaged (the stretch marks indicate that the collagen fibers in the skin have been torn) and has lost their elasticity. In this case, a secondary abdominoplasty may be performed to further tighten the abdomen, if necessary.