Without a picture it is hard to give specific advice

David Shafer, MD answers: Lipo or Tummy Tuck with an upside-down T?

I recently had a Tummy Tuck consultation with a plastic surgeon. I'm 5'3, 110 lbs, and I want a full Tummy Tuck, but might end up with an upside-down T. The other option was aggressive Liposuction on the abs and flanks, Vaser Liposuction, and lower skin excision. Which option is better for me? Why would I end up with an upside-down T?

David Shafer, MD
9 months ago

Without a picture it is hard to give specific advice. With abodminoplasty, there are many options. The inverted or up-side-down T is only necessary if there is not enough loose skin between your belly button and the low incision. It is rarely necessary to do this. In most cases, this skin can be excised (removed) without much difficult. Good luck with your surgery.

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A: There is probably a better third option.

George J. Beraka, MD
9 months ago

Hi!

It's hard to tell exactly without examining you, of course, but most women like you benefit by a full abdominoplasty with a low, horizontal scar only. I doubt very much that you need an upside down T scar, unless you have lost a great deal of weight. I have published about this topic.

On the other hand, most women do not get full correction with "aggressive" liposuction and lower skin removal. And you can get irregularities, and looseness of the upper belly.

It really depends on your anatomy. If you want another opinion, there is a link on my web site to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, where you can get names in your area.

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A: Upside down "T"? incision for tummy tuck

Steven Wallach, MD
9 months ago

It is difficult to suggest one option over another without examining you. I am not sure why your doctor suggested a "T" incision unless you had massive weight loss and you have significant skin laxity. If you are unhappy with the suggestions from the surgeon you meet with, get a second opinion.

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