Will an extended tummy tuck be the right procedure for me or will I need a body and back lift? (photos)

Hi Zee01,

Thank you for your question regarding the best surgical approach following your significant weight loss. Congratulations on your impressive weight loss journey!

Based on your history and photos, the ideal approach for achieving the best aesthetic result involves a combination of procedures, typically done in stages. Here's what you should consider:

A 360 circumferential lower body lift would be your best first step. This procedure includes:

Tummy tuck
Pubic lift/reduction
Hip lift/reduction
Buttock lift/reduction
Rectus abdominis or rectus diastasis plication
Relocation of the belly button
This comprehensive approach addresses excess skin and fat around your abdomen, hips, and buttocks, providing a more balanced and contoured appearance.

Following the lower body lift, a 360 circumferential upper body lift can be considered a few months later. This typically includes:

Horizontal torsoplasty (back lift)
Anchor breast lift (with or without implants)
Arm lift/reduction
During a horizontal torsoplasty, an incision is made across the back to remove a butterfly-shaped area of skin and fat, resulting in a flatter back. This procedure may be essential if you have significant back rolls and loose skin that cannot be adequately addressed by liposuction alone.

Liposuction, while effective for fat removal, might not be the best option for you due to the excess skin resulting from your weight loss. Liposuction alone could lead to rolls of loose skin without significantly improving your overall contour.

Another option to consider is a vertical torsoplasty. This involves removing a large elliptical area of skin and fat from the armpit to the upper hip, resulting in a scar from your armpit to your hip. However, this procedure is less common, and finding a specialist might require some research. Due to blood supply considerations, it is best performed several months after the upper body lift.

Regarding an extended tummy tuck, this procedure would primarily address your abdominal area but might not significantly improve your hips or buttocks. If these areas are of concern, a 360 circumferential lower body lift would provide a more comprehensive solution.

I recommend consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has extensive experience with post-weight loss body contouring. This will help you determine the best surgical plan tailored to your needs and goals.

Good luck, and I hope this provides clarity regarding your surgical options.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Dear Zee01,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos, it looks like you have loose skin so you will probably need back lift too. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery