5’7” 125lbs - Are there alternatives to a tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

Hello. I’m wondering if there are alternatives to a tummy tuck to fix the loose skin/cellulite appearancein my upper abdomen. I’m 5’7” 125lbs for reference. I carried my kids very high during pregnancy and my insecurity is the upper portion of my stomach. Would losing more weight help this? I really don’t want to have a full TT if there are non surgical options. Thank you so much for any advice!

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Losing additional weight is unlikely to help in your situation, since you are already lean and further loss would probably make the loose skin more noticeable rather than less. The issue is related more to skin elasticity after pregnancy than to fat.
Non surgical treatments such as radiofrequency, laser, ultrasound based tightening, or microneedling with RF can create some improvement in skin quality and tightness. These can reduce the appearance of looseness or mild cellulite, but results are modest and usually require multiple sessions.
The only way to achieve a dramatic, lasting change is with surgery such as a tummy tuck or in some cases a reverse tummy tuck for the upper abdomen. If you prefer not to go that route, non surgical skin tightening can still offer a subtle improvement and may help you feel more confident.
I have also shared a detailed video where I explain the pros and cons of non surgical tightening compared to abdominoplasty, with examples of what to realistically expect.
&mdash; Güray Yesiladali, MD

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

There are a number of non-invasive systems that report to eliminate subcutaneous fat as well as tighten the skin. They involve various combinations of radio frequency, ultrasound, percutaneous micro-needling, and heating of the dermis for shrinkage, etc. They do have some efficacy, however, the results tend to be modest. You appear to be in good shape and have an excellent contour and so this may be an option for you to avoid a surgery.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear jmesuzanne,

it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. Based on your photos, it looks like you don't have much loose skin to be considering tummy tuck. 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Ned Snyder, IV, MD · Answer

Thanks for submitting your questions and photos.  Based on the photos, I would not recommend a tummy tuck.  This would not adequately treat the areas that are bothering you.  You may be a better candidate for a small amount of liposuction to the abdomen, which can help flatten and improve contour.  You do get a small amount of skin tightening with liposuction as well.  You are also a good candidate for non-surgical skin tightening, such as Ultherapy or Morpheus.  This can be done after you’ve recovered from liposuction to take your results even further.  I recommend seeking a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over your options in further detail.  Good luck and thanks again for reaching out.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

High definition liposuction with Renuvion plasma heating will help get the best contour to your skin. Remember, nothing really tightens skin, but Renuvion helps get it to scar down as flat as possible. As always, keep in mind that the best results from liposuction are gotten by being very proactive after the surgery. It's not enough to just wear a compression garment for a period of time. Drains are a very important but inconvenient adjunct to getting the fluid out of the region. And finally post liposuction massage drainage is also important, especially in the first two weeks to reduce fluid and swelling.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

You appear to have very good skin and muscle.

In my experience, Vaser ultrasound liposuction will remove stubborn fat and tighten skin of entire abdomen.

This would avoid tummy tuck scars and longer recovery.

There may be some slight residual skin around belly button, but not enough for a full tummy tuck which would risk a high scar and/or small T.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures is recommended to confirm you are a candidate as well as discuss your options and expectations.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

As you state, your excess skin is above the umbilicus. However, your breasts are not visible in the photographs. There is a breast lift technique called The Bellesoma Method, which lifts the breasts and also lifts the upper abdominal skin. If you are a candidate for a breast lift then this may be the best alternative for you since you will not need a tummy tuck. I would need photographs of your breasts to give you a more accurate answer.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Sean Fisher, MD · Answer

Non-surgical modalities such as radiofrequency microneedling or ultrasound skin tightening can improve skin laxity to a smaller degree. However it is never going to produce results similar to surgery. These may be good options for you, but it is highly dependent on the degree of laxity you have. 
Based on your photos and the area of your concern, you may be a candidate for a reverse tummy tuck. This operation using an incision that hides along the folds of your breast to pull laxity out in an upward direction rather than through the typical lower abdominal incision. This surgery is not a 1:1 substitute for patients who really need a traditional tummy tuck. However, it can be a great option for thin patients with relatively little skin laxity and laxity that is isolated to the upper abdomen. The other aspect of anatomy, that can really only be evaluated in person, is whether you have a significant diastasis and if this is isolated to the upper abdomen or involves the entire abdomen. You should consult with a well-qualified plastic surgeon who can discuss your various surgical options and come up with a plan that aligns with your goals and expectations.
Sean Fisher, MD Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon Seattle, WA

Kamol Pansritum, MD · Answer

Non-surgical treatments such as radiofrequency, ultrasound, or laser may help tighten the skin and improve mild cellulite in the upper abdomen, but results are limited and not 100% effective.
Further weight loss may not improve loose skin and could worsen its appearance. If you prefer to avoid a full tummy tuck, we can assess whether a less invasive option like a mini tummy tuck or skin tightening treatment is suitable.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the photos and your description you will have the best results from a standard tummy tuck.  This would address excess fat and skin as well as correct the abdominal wall laxity that is common after pregnancy.  If you are set against a tummy tuck you could consider BodyTite.  This minimally invasive procedure uses RF technology both under and on top of the skin to tighten the skin with no general anesthesia needed.  It will not correct the abdominal wall separation.  I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more about these options.

5’7” 125lbs - Are there alternatives to a tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answers (10)

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