A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) is more than just skin removal. For many women, it's about reclaiming confidence, feeling comfortable in clothes again, and restoring harmony between body and mind. But while dramatic before-and-afters might dominate social media, most patients want something simpler: a belly that looks and feels natural.
If you're thinking about a tummy tuck in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Michael Baumholtz is a dual board-certified Plastic Surgeon known for delivering natural-looking, age-appropriate results. Here's what sets his approach apart - and how you can achieve your goals safely, thoughtfully, and beautifully.
The Modern Patient’s Goal: Subtle, Confident, And Real
Why Less Is Often More
Today’s tummy tuck patient isn’t chasing extremes. Most women simply want to look like a better version of themselves - not someone else. Dr. Baumholtz often hears, “I want my jeans to fit again,” or, “I just want to feel good in a bathing suit, not fake.”
Excessively flat or unnaturally defined results can often look artificial, especially when not in line with a patient's age, lifestyle, or natural anatomy. A natural look blends in, supports movement, and feels authentic to you.
Emotional Drivers For Surgery
Pregnancy, weight loss, or aging can leave the midsection with stretched skin, muscle separation, and stubborn bulges. A tummy tuck is about restoring, not reinventing your body. Many patients feel a deep emotional disconnect with their post-baby or post-weight-loss bodies. They want their outside to reflect how strong and vital they feel inside.
Dr. Michael Baumholtz’s Approach To Natural Tummy Tuck Results
Consultation That Starts With Listening
At his San Antonio practice, Dr. Baumholtz takes time to understand your goals and lifestyle. No rushed assessments. You’ll be invited to create a “wish book” of body types you admire - realistic ones, preferably with body types similar to yours. This process sets the tone for a collaborative plan.
He listens first, then examines. Every detail, from your clothing preferences to activity level, informs the plan. He also discusses past surgeries, medical history, and future plans (like pregnancies or weight goals) to ensure timing is right.
Using Technology To Plan Realistic Changes
After taking digital pictures of your body, Dr Baumholtz will draw your operation on your images - showing you where the scars will be and what the operation will (and won’t) address. These drawings are often the best way to convey the specifics of your operation as it applies to your body.
Key Surgical Choices That Make All The Difference
Low, Thoughtful Incision Placement
Dr. Baumholtz places incisions low-about 5 to 6 cm above the vaginal opening - so they can be hidden by underwear or swimwear. He avoids high-riding scars that limit clothing options.
Every incision is carefully measured and marked while the patient is standing and lying down to ensure symmetry and concealment. Strategic closure techniques help reduce tension and optimize healing.
Gentle Muscle Repair
He repairs separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti) to improve strength and shape. The goal isn’t to pull everything tight - it’s to restore your natural abdominal wall without making it boxy or rigid.
This improves posture, reduces back pain, and enhances core strength - without sacrificing comfort or movement.
Moderate Skin Tightening
“Snug” beats “drum-tight.” Over-tightened skin can feel uncomfortable and often leads to wide or raised scars. Dr. Baumholtz leaves just a touch of softness - so the belly looks like it belongs to you.
This approach reduces wound healing complications, preserves mobility, and respects the body’s natural tissue tension.
Belly Button Preservation
He almost always keeps your original belly button, repositioning it naturally. In rare cases where revisions are needed, he performs in-office refinements using a four-flap technique to avoid a “surgical” look.
This preserves natural identity and avoids signs of surgical intervention-like oval or misplaced belly buttons.
Scar Management From Day One
Dr. Baumholtz believes recovery doesn’t end when the incisions close. Once healed, you’ll receive a plan that includes silicone creams, UV protection, and microneedling options to reduce scar visibility.
His office educates patients on massage techniques, pressure therapy, and advanced skin treatments to support optimal healing.
Enhancing Natural Outcomes: Liposuction And Mons Contouring
When Liposuction Helps - And When It Doesn’t
Some patients benefit from gentle liposuction to the flanks or lower back to refine their silhouette. Dr. Baumholtz avoids liposuction in the central abdominal area during tummy tuck surgery, which can compromise healing.
Instead, he targets areas where fat pads interrupt silhouette balance. When combined with a tummy tuck, this helps highlight the waist without risking blood supply to the abdominal flap.
Addressing The Mons Pubis
After weight loss or childbirth, the mons (the pubic area) may become prominent or droopy. Dr. Baumholtz openly discusses this issue. If needed, he performs a wedge resection to smooth and align the mons with your flatter abdomen.
This sensitive issue can be a major barrier to body confidence. Correcting it helps patients feel proportionate and secure in swimwear and clothing.
Avoiding The Overdone Look: The Art Of Restraint
Why Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Some surgeons chase tightness at the expense of comfort or aesthetics. That’s not Dr. Baumholtz’s philosophy. He’s seen what happens when skin is pulled too tight or muscles are over-repaired - it often requires revision surgery.
He values sustainable results over dramatic transformations. It's about how your body looks and feels months and years later - not just immediately post-op.
Experience In Revision = Precision In Prevention
As a surgeon known for revisional abdominoplasty, Dr. Baumholtz designs surgeries to minimize complications like boxy contours, visible step-offs, or unnatural belly buttons. He plans every step with prevention in mind.
His attention to vascular integrity, scar placement, and tension lines makes future complications less likely.
The Role Of Trust, Timing, And Real Expectations
A Relationship, Not A Transaction
At Baumholtz Plastic Surgery in San Antonio, care continues long after the procedure. You’ll see Dr. Baumholtz regularly and get personal updates, adjustments, and attention throughout recovery.
His approachable nature and honesty build lasting relationships with patients who feel seen, supported, and respected.
Timing Matters
You don’t need to be “perfect” to be a candidate - but you do need stability. Dr. Baumholtz helps you plan the right timing based on life factors like recent weight loss, family planning, and recovery windows.
He encourages patients to wait until their weight is stable and life circumstances allow for safe, supported healing.
What Real Success Looks Like
The best tummy tuck results don’t scream “plastic surgery.” They whisper confidence. They help you feel proud of your reflection, your clothes, your presence.
Real success is about wearing your favorite dress again, taking beach vacations without anxiety, or moving through life without hiding behind clothing.
Why Choose Dr. Michael Baumholtz For Your Tummy Tuck
Dual Board Certification And Deep Experience
Dr. Baumholtz is certified in both General Surgery and Plastic Surgery - a rare combination that allows him to approach abdominoplasty with both structural insight and aesthetic finesse. His training includes trauma, microsurgery, and advanced aesthetic techniques.
This makes him uniquely qualified to manage complex anatomy, high-risk patients, and previous surgical revisions with skill and care.
A Recognized Name In Revision Work
Patients and peers across Texas refer complex cases to Dr. Baumholtz. Whether it’s a first-time tummy tuck or a revision of a prior surgery, his methodical planning and technical skill help deliver safe, realistic, satisfying results.
He approaches every procedure with the same level of care and scrutiny - because your first surgery should be your best surgery.
A Local Expert You Can Rely On
Based in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Baumholtz serves patients from across Central Texas and beyond. His approachable demeanor, commitment to education, and dedication to long-term outcomes make him a trusted partner for your journey.
Patients appreciate his accessibility, the transparency of his process, and the long-term relationships he builds through attentive care.
About Natural-Looking Tummy Tuck Results
What if I don’t want to look like I’ve had surgery?
- Many patients worry about looking “done.” Dr. Baumholtz focuses on proportion, softness, and subtlety so your results blend seamlessly with your body.
Can I keep my original belly button?
- Yes, in most cases your natural belly button is preserved and repositioned. When needed, Dr. Baumholtz performs refinements in-office to keep the look natural.
Will I still have some softness after surgery?
- Absolutely. The goal is a flatter, firmer abdomen - not a rigid or over-tightened one. A touch of softness helps maintain a natural feel and look.
Does the position of my scar change how natural the result looks?
- Yes. A low, horizontal scar placed strategically can be hidden by underwear or swimwear and enhances the natural appearance of your midsection.
Can a tummy tuck help with posture or back pain?
- When the abdominal muscles are repaired, many patients notice improved core strength and posture. This can sometimes ease mild back pain.
What if I’ve already had a tummy tuck and don’t like the result?
- Dr. Baumholtz often performs revision tummy tucks. He’ll assess what can be improved and work with you to create a surgical plan that aligns with your goals.
How soon will I feel “normal” again after surgery?
- Most patients start feeling more like themselves within a few weeks. Full recovery and return to vigorous activity may take longer, and Dr. Baumholtz provides detailed guidance throughout.
Ready To Feel More Like You Again?
Dr. Michael Baumholtz is a Plastic Surgeon who understands that natural-looking results come from personalized planning, technical mastery, and honest expectations. Whether you're just starting your research or ready to take the next step, his San Antonio practice offers a supportive, transparent environment where your goals are respected-and your safety is always the priority.
You’ve waited long enough to feel confident again. Let’s talk about what’s possible-safely and beautifully.
Medical References
- Belly fat in women: Taking — and keeping — it off - Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/belly-fat/art-20045809 - Belly fat in men: Why weight loss matters - Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/mens-health/in-depth/belly-fat/art-20045685 - Cellulite - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cellulite/symptoms-causes/syc-20354945
