Combination lower body lift and FDL? (photos)

Question

I’m planning a circumferential lower body lift to address skin laxity from massive weight loss, but I have both horizontal and vertical laxity in my abdomen. Can FDL be combined with the body lift to get the best results? I would really like to avoid a revision if the body lift leaves vertical laxity in my skin closer to the rib cage.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello FreshStart0311,
Thank you for your question about the possibility of combining a lower body lift with a Fleur de Lis (FDL) procedure, and for providing your pictures and history.
Let's clarify what each procedure involves:
A 360 Circumferential Lower Body Lift includes a tummy tuck, rectus abdominis muscle plication, pubic lift and reduction, hip lift and reduction, and a buttock lift.
The Fleur de Lis (FDL) involves both horizontal and vertical tummy tucks, removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen in both directions, along with pubic reduction and rectus abdominis muscle plication.
The primary distinction between the FDL and the 360 circumferential lower body lift is the vertical removal of abdominal skin and fat in the FDL, whereas the lower body lift includes a posterior lift.
Therefore, it is indeed possible to combine a 360 circumferential lower body lift with an FDL. Essentially, the surgery you are considering is a 360 circumferential lower body lift with an additional vertical incision extending from the mons pubis to the xiphoid process.
Most plastic surgeons would recommend a 360 circumferential lower body lift for addressing issues with the pubic region, rectus muscle diastasis (particularly below the bellybutton), and excess skin and fat around the abdomen, hips, and buttocks. However, experienced board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in 360 circumferential lower body lifts generally observe that there is not a significant amount of vertical excess skin and fat in cases like yours. The vertical excess is often due to rectus muscle distention rather than loose skin, leading many to conclude that a vertical tummy tuck component may not be necessary.
I hope this clarifies whether a combination of a 360 circumferential lower body lift and an FDL is advisable in your case.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Luis Suarez, MD · Answer

Yes, the best option in this case would be a 360 tummy tuck known as circular tummy tuck, to remove all the skin from both lower abdomen and lower back. If this kid is able to be removed successfully, just with that you can avoid the FDL incision. However, if you still have residual skin in the upper abdomen, that would be a suggestion to help remove that skin. If it’s done, it does help improve and cinch the waist.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your weight loss!  Yes, you can combine a FDL incision along with your lower body lift in order to get the maximum reduction in excess skin.  Be sure to see an experienced board certified plastic surgeon for a consultation.  I've included a video on plastic surgery after major weight loss that I hope you find helpful.

Thomas Trevisani, MD · Answer

Congrats on your weight loss! 
In person exam is essential. Short answer-yes, FDL can be combined with other body lift procedures at the same time - provided it is performed in a safe, accredited facility with overnight stay

Rodolfo Castillo, MD · Answer

According to what we see in your photos, to achieve the best outcome, it is necessary to remove excess skin both in the abdomen and in the hips and buttocks. This result is achieved through a circular fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty and can be performed in a single stage.
Best, Dr Rodolfo Castillo.

Combination lower body lift and FDL? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Combination lower body lift and FDL?

Answer: Combination lower body lift and FDL?

Answer: You're great candidate for body lift.

Answer: You're great candidate for body lift.

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Combination lower body lift and FDL? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Combination lower body lift and FDL?

Answer: Combination lower body lift and FDL?

Answer: You're great candidate for body lift.

Answer: You're great candidate for body lift.

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Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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