During a tummy tuck, one incision is made in the lower abdomen, below the underwear line, and a second incision is created surrounding the navel, which stays connected to the abdominal wall. The soft tissues of the abdomen are then lifted, and excess skin pulled downward to be removed. As a result, stretch marks below the belly button are effectively eliminated with the unwanted skin. It is important to be aware that in place of the stretch marks, there will be a horizontal scar, however, a skilled surgeon will strategically place the incisions in order to ensure that any resulting scarring is as inconspicuous as possible.