Can I avoid having an anchor tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I consulted with a Dr, and he suggested that I get an anchor tummy tuck, I know I have a vertical scar already but is there anyway I can just get a regular tummy tuck, the recovery seems so harder, thanks

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question and photo. The vertical scar you have could be somewhat reduced and revised to be a smaller, thinner, less visible vertical scar. This may not be a necessary incision, but could ensure no excess skin at the sides. The recovery time/difficulty should not be harder with this additional vertical incision but will improve the appearance of the scar you have. Be sure to seek a board certified Plastic Surgeon with plenty of expertise in this area.All the best

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

ShelbyI appreciate your concern, but it appears from your photo that you would benefit from a vertical scar component to your horizontal Tummytuck scar because the scar already present is not very good, and might be improved by excision and closure at the time of your tummytuck. It will also allow your surgeon to gather in and resect redundant skin from your hip region. Most importantly, it should not change your recovery compared to just horizontal scar. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question.In this regard, I'm totally agree with you, therefore i recommend you a Tummy Tuck with muscle repair, to get a flat abdomen and waist and back Liposculpture, getting better curves especially in the waist, improving your body contour.

Finally, I suggested take the fat we get and transfer to the buttocks and hips, to mold them and get better volume, contour and butt projection, is that we know as "Brazilian Butt Lift" (BBL).God bless you,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Nathan Eberle, MD, DDS, FACS · Answer

there is little difference in recovery from a skin incision making an anchor or only a transverse scar. The painful portion of the TT is the muscle repair, which you will also need in addition to lipo contouring. Bc you already have the vertical, there is no way to get rid of that vertical component of the scar.

Keith M. Blechman, MD · Answer

For patients with a vertical scar on their abdomen from a previous surgery, it may oftentimes be best to remove the scar if they are undergoing a tummy tuck. There are a few reasons for this. First, it allows a chance to revise the scar which may improve its cosmetic appearance. Also, for patients with excess tissue in a horizontal direction, this can then potentially be tightened. Furthermore, if the scar is quite tethered to the abdominal wall, removing it will allow the skin to redrape more smoothly for a better final result. Although removing the scar will result in an additional incision to heal, it likely won't affect the overall recovery much.In order to get a qualified, expert opinion on your surgical options and expectations, always have an in-person consultation with a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.

Best of luck,Keith M. Blechman, MDNew York, NY

Best of luck,Keith M. Blechman, MDNew York, NY

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your
photograph, you are a great candidate for a tummy tuck with liposuction. 
This can be done through a low and short incision, all completely below the
bikini line.  Your muscles can also be
plicated resulting in a flat abdomen.  Make sure you
specifically look at before and after pictures of real patients who have
had this surgery performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.  The
most important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I
recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic
surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Mathew A. Plant, MD, FRCSC · Answer

if you didn't have the vertical scar already I would say you don't need an "anchor" tummy tuck however since you already do have the scar and it looks like it would benefit from revision it would probably be the best procedure for you. If you aren't convinced then I'd suggest being examined by a second surgeon for another opinion. Best of luck!

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Dear Shelby,Thank you for your picture.  The answer to your question depends on your physical exam at the consultation.  Even if you had a more conventional tummy tuck some portion of your old vertical scar will be present thus giving you the look of having had an "anchor" tummy tuck.  Good Luck.

Milan Doshi, MS, MCh · Answer

Thank you Shelby for the  posting photograph

Anchor lipoabdominoplasty will  give you far better aesthetic result.  Residual vertical  scar can be revised and  horizontal excess skin can be excised simultaneously . will give better waist line defination

Kevin Tehrani, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting an appropriate picture. It seems that you are a good candidate for a lateral tension abdiminiolasty without a need for a vertical scar. However, it may make sense to have your scar revised at the time of surgery which will not increase your recovery. You would need to have a consultation for precise recommendations.