Loose skin above belly button after 40lbs weight loss, am I a reverse tummy tuck candidate? (Photos)

Hello TDepalma,

Thank you for your question regarding the possibility of undergoing a reverse tummy tuck after your significant weight loss. Based on the details and photos you've shared, you do appear to be a good candidate for a reverse tummy tuck. This procedure is particularly effective for addressing excess skin located primarily above the belly button, which aligns with your description.

The reverse tummy tuck involves an incision just beneath the breasts, allowing the scar to be concealed under most clothing, including swimwear and lingerie. It is important to note, however, that while this technique does help with removing excess upper abdominal skin, it does not typically involve modification of the belly button or extensive tightening of the abdominal muscles below the belly button.

Before deciding, consider the following:

Extent of Skin Removal: The reverse tummy tuck may not remove as much skin as a full abdominoplasty, which might be a consideration if you have significant laxity.
Muscle Tightening: If your concern also includes muscle laxity, a full tummy tuck, which allows for muscle repair along the entire abdomen, might be more beneficial.
Future Procedures: If you plan on breast surgeries, such as implants, the incision for the reverse tummy tuck could potentially interfere with these procedures.
If you're primarily concerned with the aesthetic appearance above the belly button and prefer minimal visible scarring on the lower abdomen, the reverse tummy tuck could indeed be a suitable option. It's crucial to discuss all these aspects with your plastic surgeon to ensure that the chosen procedure aligns with your overall aesthetic goals and to understand the limitations and benefits fully.

Thank you again for considering this transformative step, and I wish you the best in achieving your desired outcomes.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Your choice comes down to where you wish your scar placement. A reverse abdominoplasty, with the incisions in the fold underneath your breasts, also crosses across your midline between your two breasts, and would be slightly visible there in bathing suits, etc. This would correct the loose skin of your upper abdomen, with the trade-off, being a slightly more visible scar. A regular abdominoplasty, with the incision across your lower abdomen would also correct this loose tissue in your upper abdomen, but the scar would be less visible in bathing suits. The choice would be yours as to which incision position you feel most comfortable with. Best wishes.

Reverse abdominoplasties are an attractive option for those who have loose skin only above the umbilicus. The key problems are scar placement and scar widening. In my personal experience, it is seldom my first choice for the patient. Seek a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to explore your best options.