Waist appearance after tummy tuck - Can everyone achieve a nicely curved waist after tummy tuck? (photos)

Question

I was wondering why sometimes after tummy tuck the waist appears to be 'straight down' (without any indentation) and sometimes (more rarely from what ive seen) it has a nice curve to the waist. Does it depend on the patient and/or technique and surgeon? Can everyone achieve a nicely curved waist after tummy tuck? Im attaching my picture currently

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @aslaniRound2LDN, thank you for your question. It depends on several factors among them the surgical technique and the patient bone structure. The ASPA technique is used in my practice when performing a tummy tuck. This abbreviation stands for superficial abdominoplasty with anatomical plication, a technique I personally developed a number of years ago and which I believe addresses some issues I have observed with conventional abdominoplasty, like the lack of additional waist shaping and the skin that has sagged after surgery. For further information, I provide a video link. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

The appearance of the waist after a tummy tuck can vary depending on several factors, including the patient's anatomy, the extent of the surgery, and the surgical technique used by the surgeon.

In general, a tummy tuck can remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen, and also tighten the abdominal muscles to create a flatter and more toned appearance. However, the extent to which the waist is contoured or curved can depend on how the surgery is performed and the natural shape of the patient's waistline.

Some surgical techniques, such as an extended tummy tuck or a lower body lift, can provide more significant contouring of the waistline. Additionally, the skill and experience of the surgeon can also play a role in achieving a more contoured waistline.

It's also worth noting that everyone's body is different, and not everyone may achieve the same level of contouring or curve in the waistline after a tummy tuck. However, by working closely with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon, you can discuss your goals and expectations and develop a personalized surgical plan to achieve the best possible results for your body.

Based on your photo, it appears that your waistline already has a nice curve, but without a consultation with a plastic surgeon, it's difficult to predict the degree of curve that can be achieved with a tummy tuck. Your surgeon can evaluate your anatomy and provide a realistic expectation of what can be accomplished with surgery.

Best of luck !

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for reaching out with your question. It's true that the results of a tummy tuck can look different from one person to another, and several factors contribute to the outcome. These factors include the individual's body shape, the surgical technique used, and the experience and skills of the surgeon.

From the picture you've shared, it seems you already have a natural hourglass shape, which is a great foundation for a tummy tuck. The procedure is likely to enhance your existing curves and potentially give you an even more pronounced hourglass look.

Sometimes, people may end up with a straighter waist after a tummy tuck if they had less waist definition beforehand, or if the surgical approach didn't prioritize waist contouring. For those who desire a more hourglass figure, additional techniques like liposuction around the waist or muscle plication can be combined with a tummy tuck to create a more defined waistline.

It's important to remember that although a tummy tuck can significantly improve the appearance of your abdomen and waist, your final result will still depend on your unique body shape and how your body fat and muscle are distributed.

To get a better idea of what a tummy tuck can do for you, consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your specific situation and provide realistic expectations. Best of luck on your body contouring journey.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Matthew D. Freeman, MD · Answer

Multiple factors play into the final result of a tummy tuck procedure. As you alluded to, one of the most important is pre-existing anatomical characteristics. For example, you have a narrow waist and wider hips with an hourglass appearance. You are very likely to achieve a very nice result from a tummy tuck. Patients who have narrower hips or wider abdomens frequently will not be able to achieve the same result that you might. It is certainly true that adjunctive procedures such as liposuction can help achieve a tightened waistline; however, in my opinion, your pre-operative anatomy plays a more significant role. Another good example is that men who have lost significant weight have a much narrower pelvic structure. It is more difficult to achieve a straight across waistline without a long vertical (fleur-de-lis technique) incision due to a mismatch between the width of their abdomens and the width of the pelvis. I hope this helps.

Cem Berkay Sinaci, MD · Answer

Hello, that curve is both technique and patient depended. Your waists are appropriate for that look because the point of maximum indentation is already defined. During the tummy tuck, medialization of the skin from the sides makes that curvy effect on proper patients. Regards.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear aslaniRound2LDN,
is some cases, liposuction can help achieve curves. 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

Albert Ko, MD · Answer

Hi there,Thanks for your question. Achieving an hourglass shape after surgery is based on both technique and your natural body anatomy. If someone already has an hourglass shape, like yourself, then its much easier to enhance that with liposuction during surgery.

Carlos Marciales, MD · Answer

It’s depend on all the factors, some patients have the hips higher than others and the space between the ribs and hips it’s smaller that makes the waist not be to small and look more straight, other patients have more space, also it’s important to do liposuction of the flanks to give you the more waist posible, and do really tight tummy tuck and the muscle repair need to be wide

Gregory Lakin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The appearance of the waist after a tummy tuck can vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient's anatomy, surgical technique, and the skill of the surgeon.

In general, a tummy tuck can help to create a more contoured waistline by removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles. However, the degree of waist curvature that can be achieved will depend on the patient's individual anatomy, including the shape and position of the ribcage and hips.

In some cases, patients may have a naturally straighter waistline, which can limit the degree of curvature that can be achieved with a tummy tuck. However, a skilled surgeon can use surgical techniques such as liposuction and muscle tightening to enhance the appearance of the waistline and create a more contoured look.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Very interesting question! These ‘straight down tummy tucks” you mention are probably missing liposuction…..maybe even muscle repair. So, most patients can achieve a curvy waist with a tummy and most tummy tucks I’ve seen are actually curvy. But you are correct in stating that it may depend on the patients body type and also on the technique used.

Some patients have good bone structure that facilitates more curves. But I feel that the technique used is most importan. Liposuction and muscle repair should be performed on all tummy tucks. Muscle repair not only flattens the tummy, but it also helps taper the waist like and internal corset. Plus, it is no secret that liposuction to the waist and flanks is essential for body countering so it should always be done to complement the tummy tuck.
I’m sure that you will have no issues with your results. You have nice curves already and they can definitely be enhance, especially with a TT with muscle repair and 360 Liposcution.

Best of luck,
Dr, Miguel Mota

Waist appearance after tummy tuck - Can everyone achieve a nicely curved waist after tummy tuck? (photos)

Answers (19)

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