Hello! Throughout my tummy tuck research, I have noticed a variance in incision lines. Some incisions curve upwards (French bikini cut, U-shaped) and some are straight across. Is this purely an aesthetic or is there reason for the curved incision? I've been told I need an extended TT, but I'm very hesitant to have my incision line/scar follow a French bikini cut (I don't want to be stuck with a flashback to the 80's). Any insight will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
April 30, 2015
Answer: Tummy tuck incision The incision I use is dependent on the contours presented by the patient. I like to eliminate as many stretch marks as possible, so my incision can extend on one side in order to remove unilateral problems. An extended incision is used to address the lateral extensions of extra skin, fat or stretch marks. I prefer a low curved incision where possible that can be hidden by a pair of panties. Good luck...
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April 30, 2015
Answer: Tummy tuck incision The incision I use is dependent on the contours presented by the patient. I like to eliminate as many stretch marks as possible, so my incision can extend on one side in order to remove unilateral problems. An extended incision is used to address the lateral extensions of extra skin, fat or stretch marks. I prefer a low curved incision where possible that can be hidden by a pair of panties. Good luck...
Helpful
October 30, 2019
Answer: Tummy Tuck Incision Lines. Is there a reason for the curved incision or is it purely aesthetic? Good question! I can really only answer the question for myself as a plastic surgeon. I agree there is a variety of "angles" sometimes utilized that come higher up on the sides. One popular choice from years ago that is still sometimes seen is the "high lateral tension abdominoplasty" which has "higher angles" on the sides and exactly why I don't like that approach. In general, for me, what determines where I place that incision is where your abdomen "creases" and folds when you sit down. This is typically at the level of the pubis (this encompasses the old C-Section scar if there is one in the middle), and it carries out on the sides where the crease forms between the thigh and the torso/abdomen. I always keep my incisions "as low" as I can, and there are some plastic surgeons that utilize a higher incision. I think the lower incisions are easier to disguise in swim suits and undergarments. I also try to keep things as low as I can when doing an "extended tummy tuck". The "laxity" of the tissues and where it creases partly determines where the incision has to be. I would discuss these details with your plastic surgeon. Good luck!
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
October 30, 2019
Answer: Tummy Tuck Incision Lines. Is there a reason for the curved incision or is it purely aesthetic? Good question! I can really only answer the question for myself as a plastic surgeon. I agree there is a variety of "angles" sometimes utilized that come higher up on the sides. One popular choice from years ago that is still sometimes seen is the "high lateral tension abdominoplasty" which has "higher angles" on the sides and exactly why I don't like that approach. In general, for me, what determines where I place that incision is where your abdomen "creases" and folds when you sit down. This is typically at the level of the pubis (this encompasses the old C-Section scar if there is one in the middle), and it carries out on the sides where the crease forms between the thigh and the torso/abdomen. I always keep my incisions "as low" as I can, and there are some plastic surgeons that utilize a higher incision. I think the lower incisions are easier to disguise in swim suits and undergarments. I also try to keep things as low as I can when doing an "extended tummy tuck". The "laxity" of the tissues and where it creases partly determines where the incision has to be. I would discuss these details with your plastic surgeon. Good luck!
Helpful 1 person found this helpful