A traditional tummy tuck can slim and tighten the abdomen—but what if you want more than just a flat stomach? For many women, the goal is a defined waistline that enhances natural curves and creates the coveted hourglass silhouette. That’s where an Hourglass Tummy Tuck comes in. This advanced body contouring procedure is designed to sculpt not just the front of the abdomen, but the entire torso, for a more feminine, contoured shape. If you’re considering this surgery with Dr. Morales, here are the top three things to know about the Hourglass Tummy Tuck.
What Is an Hourglass Tummy Tuck?
Unlike a standard tummy tuck that focuses solely on removing excess skin and tightening the abdominal muscles, an Hourglass Tummy Tuck is a more comprehensive contouring procedure. It combines the core benefits of a traditional abdominoplasty with 360-degree liposuction to sculpt the waistline and enhance the hips. The result is a smoother, tighter abdomen and more balanced proportions that highlight a smaller waist.
Dr. Morales customizes this procedure to fit your body type and aesthetic goals. As part of your surgery, he may:
- Remove loose or excess abdominal skin
- Repair diastasis recti (separated abdominal muscles)
- Perform liposuction to the flanks, waist, lower back and abdomen
- Add subtle fat grafting to the hips to create balance, if needed
#1 – Combining Liposuction for Enhanced Curves
Liposuction is key to achieving the “hourglass” result. While a tummy tuck flattens the front of the abdomen, liposuction shapes the sides and lower back. This approach reduces bulk and defines the waistline. Dr. Morales uses high-definition VASER liposuction techniques to remove targeted fat and create smoother transitions between the upper and lower body.
By sculpting the flanks and enhancing the curve at the waist, liposuction makes the tummy tuck more dynamic and flattering. In some cases, Dr. Morales will also perform fat grafting to the hips or upper buttocks to round out the silhouette.
This combination of fat removal and redistribution helps patients achieve a more curvaceous, balanced look—especially important for those with naturally straight or square body shapes.
#2 – Combining Corset Contour For Snatched Waist
For patients seeking a truly transformative hourglass silhouette, Corset Contour is an advanced surgical technique that can be performed alongside a tummy tuck to enhance waist definition beyond traditional body contouring. Unlike older procedures that involved rib removal, Corset Contour focuses on rib repositioning and remodeling, also known as costoplasty, to subtly adjust the lower ribs and narrow the waistline while preserving the structural integrity of the ribcage.
When combined with a tummy tuck, which flattens the abdomen and tightens core muscles, this technique sculpts the midsection from multiple angles, creating a dramatic yet natural-looking curve. Dr. Morales is one of the few surgeons skilled in this precise and artistic approach, offering long-lasting body contouring results without compromising safety or stability.
#3 – What to Expect During Recovery
While the Hourglass Tummy Tuck offers transformative results, recovery is more involved than a standard tummy tuck or standalone liposuction. Because multiple areas are treated, including the abdomen, waist, and possibly hips, it’s important to plan for adequate downtime and post-op care.
Dr. Morales and his team provide personalized post-operative instructions, including garment wear, lymphatic massage recommendations and detailed scar care protocols to help you recover safely and beautifully.
Most patients can expect the following recovery timeline for an Hourglass Tummy Tuck:
Week 1–2
Significant swelling and soreness, limited mobility. You’ll need help around the house and should rest frequently.
Week 3–4
Swelling improves, and most patients can return to light activity or desk work. A compression garment will be worn continuously to reduce swelling and help shape the contours.
Week 8+
You may begin low-impact exercise with Dr. Morales’s approval. Results continue to improve as swelling resolves.
3–6 months
Final results become visible as your body fully heals and skin contracts around your new shape.
Ideal Candidates
The Hourglass Tummy Tuck isn’t right for everyone—but it’s a game-changer for the right candidate. This procedure is especially popular among women who want to feel more feminine and confident in their curves, and those seeking a more dramatic transformation than a traditional tummy tuck provides.
It may be a good fit if you:
- Struggle with loose abdominal skin from weight loss or pregnancy
- Have stubborn fat around the midsection that doesn’t respond to diet and exercise
- Desire a more defined waist and curvier silhouette
- Are in good overall health and a stable weight
- Don’t plan on future pregnancies
FAQs
How Does An Hourglass Tummy Tuck Differ From Other Tummy Tucks?
A traditional tummy tuck tightens the abdomen and removes excess skin, but it doesn’t address the waist or flanks. An Hourglass Tummy Tuck adds liposuction to sculpt the sides and back, creating a defined waist and curvier figure. It’s more comprehensive and designed to reshape the entire midsection for a true hourglass result.
Can Liposuction Enhance Your Shape?
Yes! Liposuction is essential for removing fat from the flanks and back to narrow the waist. When combined with a tummy tuck, Dr. Morales uses his artistic eye to create the perfect contrast between the upper and lower body. The result is a balanced, hourglass contour. In some cases, Dr. Morales will also perform fat grafting to the hips for additional shape.
What Should I Expect During The Recovery Process?
Recovery involves swelling, bruising and limited mobility for the first few weeks. You’ll wear a compression garment and should avoid heavy lifting or exercise until cleared by Dr. Morales. Most patients return to light activities after 2–3 weeks, with full recovery taking several months. Results will gradually improve as your body heals.
Why Choose Dr. Morales For An Hourglass Tummy Tuck
Dr. Rolando Morales, a board-certified plastic surgeon, specializes in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. His commitment to excellence and patient care has earned him numerous accolades, including being consistently named a Top Doctor in Plastic Surgery and one of the best plastic surgeons in the region. His dedication to meticulous planning and execution, combined with high patient satisfaction, has led to multiple Patient’s Choice Awards, making him a trusted choice in the Houston area.
Schedule your consultation today and discover how Dr. Morales can help you get the hourglass silhouette you’ve always wanted!
