Extended or fleur de lis tummy tuck - which procedure would be best for me? (photos)

Hello and thank you for your question regarding an extended or Fleur de Lis tummy tuck.

Based on your history and picture, you need an extended horizontal tummy tuck, which involves an incision from hip to hip. You do not need a vertical component or a Fleur de Lis (FDL) tummy tuck. You have minimal fat in the upper abdominal area, and a well-executed horizontal tummy tuck should correct this defect.

With an extended horizontal tummy tuck, the rectus abdominis muscle is plicated from the sternum to the pubic bone. The excess skin and fat of the lower abdomen are removed, the pubic region is lifted and reduced, and the belly button is reoriented, with the surrounding skin mobilized.

I suggest you inform your plastic surgeon that you do not want a vertical incision due to the highly visible nature of the scar. Most plastic surgeons would agree that it is unnecessary to perform a vertical component tummy tuck on your abdomen. Good luck with your surgery.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

It is concerning that you are not meeting your surgeon in person until the day prior to your surgery, especially given your concerns about making a rushed decision. I would recommend meeting your surgeon in person at least once in advance of your surgical date, with enough time to reflect on your options and whether they are the right surgeon for you, before undertaking a major operation.

Just based on your photos, I think the extended tuck would work very nicely for you and give you good results.