Tummy tuck is not weight-loss surgery. In fact, it works best on patients who are close to their goal weight. Although a limited amount of fat can be removed with abdominoplasty (more if liposuction is included), it is most effective when eliminating stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise to achieve nicer contours. If you would like to lose a significant amount of weight, Dr. Valladolid suggests making lifestyle changes or seeking bariatric surgery prior to having abdominoplasty.