Too Much Skin for Hybrid Tummy Tuck? (photo)

Question

Hi, I'm interested in a modified/hybrid tummy tuck. I've had 3 kids and am in otherwise great physical shape. I'm 5'6 and 120 lbs and narrow/athletic. I need more tightening than a mini... i have a large diastasis that goes all the way up and creates a "5 months pregnant" protrusion. I do have some excess skin but i'm not interested in the hip to hip scar of a full TT and therefore would love to hear that i could attain decent results from a smaller procedure. Would love your opinion...THANKS!

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Instead of a full regular TT, with a long hip to hip incision and an incision around the belly button, you may consider a "Umbilical Float" TT where the incision can be placed very low on the abdomen and would be slightly shorter than a full TT and avoids the incision around the belly button.  The "umbilical float" does shift the belly button slightly lower on the abdomen so whether you would be a good candidate for this could only be determined after a examination.  Your diastasis could easily be fixed via this approach as well, leading to a flatter abdomen and firmer, smoother skin.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and pictures.

	 Based on your pictures, I think that you are an excellent candidate for a full tummy tuck operation. Any “lesser” operation will not suffice. The repair of the abdominal wall diastasis must be done from the xiphoid down to the pubic bone and the entire residual “excess” skin must be excised ( otherwise you will be left with “dog ears”, necessitating further surgery).

	 Be careful that you do not end up with an aesthetically unpleasant result  as you attempt to keep incision lines shorter.

	 I hope this helps.

Brent Moelleken, MD · Answer

There are at least two procedures between a mini tummy tuck and a full tummy tuck.  A longer incision at the lower abdomen will enable us to tighten the entire diastasis. It is often not necessary to make an incision around the belly button.

	Another option is to advance the skin of the upper abdomen and close the old belly button hole horizontally or vertically.

	A full tummy tuck may leave you with an unnecessarily long and high incision.  This is especially the case with tall ladies who have not gained a great amount of weight during their pregnancies.

	we do not perform the umbilical float procedure because of the frequently non anatomical appearance and odd mobility of the belly button.

Jonathan Weiler, MD · Answer

Hi Tuckthis2468,Thank you for your pictures and questions. Based on the pictures you have submitted it looks as if you would be a good candidate for a full tummy tuck. I suggest you visit with a board certified plastic surgeon in your area to discuss your options and goals. Best of luck!

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

My opinion based upon the posted photos and written description is a Full incision TT with muscle repair. The hybrid or short scar will leave you with lateral excess skin or dog ears.

Too Much Skin for Hybrid Tummy Tuck? (photo)

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Answer: Too Much Skin for Hybrid Tummy Tuck?

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Too Much Skin for Hybrid Tummy Tuck? (photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Mini Tummy Tuck

Answer: Mini Tummy Tuck

Answer: Too Much Skin for Hybrid Tummy Tuck?

Answer: Too Much Skin for Hybrid Tummy Tuck?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mini Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.