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Stretch marks and sagging skin aren’t just cosmetic concerns-they can feel like constant reminders of weight changes, pregnancy, or aging. For many women, these issues affect more than appearance; they shape how you feel in your own skin. Clothes don’t fit the way they used to, confidence takes a hit, and even looking in the mirror becomes difficult. There’s an ongoing, quiet frustration of doing “all the right things”-eating well, exercising, even losing weight-yet still feeling like your body isn’t your own.

At Baumholtz Plastic Surgery in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Michael Baumholtz-dual-board-certified Plastic Surgeon-understands how emotionally draining this can be. He’s helped hundreds of women regain a sense of control and pride in their bodies through personalized abdominoplasty procedures. His goal is not to chase unrealistic ideals, but to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your own body. He believes that every person deserves to look in the mirror and recognize themselves again-without apology or hesitation.

What Exactly Is A Tummy Tuck?

A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess abdominal skin and fat while also tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. This approach not only restores smoother contours but can also improve posture and core strength. It’s designed to address both functional and aesthetic concerns, particularly for patients who have experienced pregnancy or significant weight loss.

It’s not a weight loss procedure, but it can refine your silhouette in a way that exercise and diet alone often cannot-especially after pregnancy or major weight changes. The result? A flatter, firmer abdominal area and a body that feels more like your own again. Patients often report a renewed sense of strength and stability-not just in how they move, but in how they carry themselves.

For patients in San Antonio and beyond, Dr. Michael Baumholtz takes a case-by-case approach, tailoring each procedure to the individual’s body type, health, and desired outcomes. His surgical planning includes a deep understanding of the patient’s goals, lifestyle, and healing capacity, ensuring a plan that’s both safe and effective.

Stretch Marks: What They Are And Why They Happen

Stretch marks (striae) occur when the skin’s collagen and elastin fibers are stretched too quickly-most commonly during pregnancy, puberty, or rapid weight fluctuations. They’re essentially dermal scars that appear as red, purple, or white streaks across the skin. Over time, they may fade in color but rarely disappear completely.

They don’t pose a health risk, but they can cause emotional discomfort, especially when prominent on the abdomen. Stretch marks are particularly frustrating because they’re beyond our control; even the healthiest, most active women develop them. Most over-the-counter creams and treatments claim to reduce their appearance, but results vary widely and rarely achieve full resolution. This is why surgical removal is considered the most definitive solution for stretch marks in specific areas.

The Power Of A Tummy Tuck For Stretch Mark Removal

During a full tummy tuck, the skin from the pubic area up to just above the belly button is removed. This is where most stretch marks from pregnancy or weight gain are concentrated. If the stretch marks fall within this removal zone, they’re gone permanently. Patients who have dealt with deep, stubborn marks for years often express a sense of relief and empowerment once they see those marks have been physically removed.

Skin above the belly button is pulled downward and re-secured. Stretch marks that remain are repositioned to a lower, less noticeable location. Some patients report that the tension on the redraped skin even smooths out the texture slightly. While it’s not a treatment for the marks themselves, the redistribution and tightening of the skin can result in a visibly improved abdominal surface.

Dr. Michael Baumholtz often tells his San Antonio patients: “If the marks are in the removal zone, we can eliminate them. If they’re higher up, we might reduce how noticeable they are-but we won’t erase them entirely.”

Loose Skin: Can It Really Be Tightened?

Yes-and often, surgery is the only reliable way to do so. Loose abdominal skin results from skin that has been stretched beyond its ability to retract, especially after pregnancy or significant weight loss. Unlike fat, which can be reduced through exercise or diet, excess skin typically won’t respond to lifestyle changes. The skin’s elasticity changes with age, genetics, and hormonal shifts, meaning it won’t always “bounce back.”

A tummy tuck removes this redundant skin and allows for redraping of the remaining tissue over the abdominal wall. The result is a smoother, more youthful contour. For many patients, this change is about more than appearance-it’s about comfort, freedom in clothing choices, and restored confidence. Skin that once folded or hung over pants can be flattened and refined.

Dr. Baumholtz carefully balances removing enough skin to achieve the desired appearance while maintaining a tension level that supports good healing. “Too much tension leads to discomfort and wide scars,” he explains. “I’d rather get you smooth and comfortable than make it drum-tight and painful.” His approach is shaped by years of experience and a deep understanding of how the body heals-not just in the short term, but over time.

What A Tummy Tuck Cannot Fix

If your stretch marks are higher up on your abdomen or near your ribs, a tummy tuck likely won’t remove them. However, their appearance may be softened or shifted. They won’t disappear entirely, but they may become less prominent as the surrounding skin is smoothed and repositioned.

While the skin may look tighter post-surgery, issues like crepey texture, sun damage, or pigmentation won’t be resolved. These surface-level concerns are better addressed with non-surgical treatments like laser therapy or microneedling.

A tummy tuck can dramatically reshape your abdomen, but it won’t address areas like love handles or thighs. That’s why Dr. Baumholtz may recommend combining it with liposuction or other procedures for a more complete transformation. This tailored approach ensures each patient achieves a balanced, natural look rather than isolated improvement in one area.

Dr. Michael Baumholtz’s Approach: Why Technique Matters

Located in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Baumholtz brings both technical skill and surgical artistry to every procedure. He has extensive experience with complex and revision tummy tuck surgeries, often receiving referrals from other practices. His meticulous planning and careful technique are rooted in his dual-board certification and years of surgical experience.

Incisions are placed low-typically just above the pubic area-so they’re easily concealed by underwear or swimsuits. Scar placement is not an afterthought; it’s a key part of surgical design that considers real-world lifestyles.

Dr. Baumholtz uses discreet, round-channel drains to prevent fluid buildup and reduce the risk of complications like seromas. These drains are carefully placed within the incision line to avoid additional visible scars and are removed with minimal discomfort during recovery.

When appropriate, the rectus abdominis muscles (commonly stretched during pregnancy) are sutured back together, improving abdominal tone and posture. This step, known as muscle plication, not only enhances the appearance of the midsection but can also restore core strength and reduce strain on the lower back.

Mini tummy tucks often sound appealing, but Dr. Baumholtz cautions patients that limited procedures yield limited results. “If you want a mini result, expect a mini improvement,” he says. A full abdominoplasty is usually needed to achieve meaningful results, especially when both stretch marks and muscle laxity are concerns.

Safety First: Why You Should See A Plastic Surgeon

Tummy tuck surgery is a major procedure that should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility. Choosing a qualified surgeon is critical to both your safety and your results. The decision to undergo surgery should come with full trust in your surgeon’s experience, judgement, and commitment to your health.

Dr. Michael Baumholtz is board-certified in both General Surgery and Plastic Surgery and has additional fellowship training in Hand and Microsurgery. His San Antonio practice prioritizes pre-operative evaluation, meticulous surgical planning, and long-term follow-up to ensure every patient receives safe, high-quality care.

Using advanced planning tools like VECTRA 3D imaging, Dr. Baumholtz helps patients visualize possible outcomes and set realistic expectations. From consultation to recovery, safety is never compromised. Every decision is made with both short-term recovery and long-term satisfaction in mind.

What Patients Say About Life After A Tummy Tuck

Dr. Baumholtz’s patients often describe their results as “life-changing.” They share stories of shopping for clothes they never thought they’d wear again, standing taller in social settings, and feeling reconnected to their bodies.

Women share how they feel more confident in their clothes, more comfortable at the pool or gym, and relieved to see their reflection match how they feel inside. For many, it’s not just a cosmetic upgrade-it’s a major step toward reclaiming their identity. The benefits often extend far beyond the operating room and into relationships, careers, and daily quality of life.

This emotional shift is something Dr. Baumholtz and his San Antonio team witness regularly and take great pride in supporting. Their goal is to offer not just technical expertise, but compassionate care that supports your journey from start to finish.

Is A Tummy Tuck The Right Next Step For You?

If you’ve tried everything and still feel like your abdomen doesn’t reflect your effort-or if you’re tired of hiding your body under layers-then it may be time to explore surgical options. You might be a good candidate if you have stretch marks mainly below the belly button, struggle with sagging abdominal skin that won't retract, have separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti), or have completed your family and reached a stable weight.

Dr. Michael Baumholtz offers in-depth consultations in San Antonio where he’ll examine your anatomy, review your medical history, and walk you through your options-without pressure or sales tactics. His consultations are educational, respectful, and focused on helping you make the decision that’s right for you-not anyone else.

FAQs About Tummy Tuck, Stretch Marks, And Loose Skin

How do I know if my stretch marks are in the removal zone for a tummy tuck? 

If your stretch marks are primarily located below the belly button and above the pubic area, they may be removed during a standard abdominoplasty. Dr. Baumholtz can assess this during your consultation by examining how your skin behaves and where those marks fall on your abdomen.

Can a tummy tuck improve the way my skin feels, or just how it looks? 

While the primary focus is on contour and appearance, many patients report that their skin feels smoother and less loose. That said, if you have crepey skin texture or significant sun damage, those issues may not be addressed fully by this procedure.

What happens to stretch marks that are not removed during surgery? 

Stretch marks above the belly button are usually pulled downward as the remaining skin is tightened. They won’t be removed but may shift position and appear lower and flatter. Their visibility may improve, but they won’t disappear completely.

Is it possible to repair separated abdominal muscles without doing a full tummy tuck?

Some mild cases of diastasis recti can be addressed through physical therapy. However, surgical repair during a tummy tuck is often the most reliable and long-term solution for more significant muscle separation.

I’ve already had liposuction in the past-will that affect my tummy tuck results? 

Previous liposuction may affect skin elasticity, scar tissue, or fat distribution. Dr. Baumholtz will take your surgical history into account and adjust his plan accordingly to ensure you get the best outcome possible.

How long should I wait after having children to consider a tummy tuck? 

Dr. Baumholtz generally recommends waiting at least six months after childbirth and ensuring you’re finished having children. This allows your body to fully recover and ensures the best long-term results from the surgery.

Does a tummy tuck help with posture or back pain? 

Yes, for some patients. By repairing abdominal muscles and supporting the core, a tummy tuck can improve posture and reduce strain on the lower back. It’s not guaranteed, but many patients notice a difference in how they carry themselves and feel day-to-day.

Take The First Step With Dr. Michael Baumholtz In San Antonio

You don’t need to live with discomfort or dissatisfaction. Whether it’s sagging skin, stretch marks, or a lack of confidence holding you back, there is a path forward. This isn’t about chasing perfection-it’s about reclaiming a part of yourself and moving forward with confidence.

Dr. Baumholtz and his team in San Antonio, TX, are here to guide you every step of the way. With a commitment to education, safety, and honest results, you’ll be in skilled hands from start to finish. Their philosophy is rooted in listening to patients, crafting customized plans, and supporting every step of your recovery journey.

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Michael Baumholtz today. Let’s talk about your goals-and how we can reach them together.

Visit the website to learn more or request an appointment.

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