Is a reverse tummy tuck the right procedure for my loose upper abdominal skin? (Photos)

Question

Hi, I'm feeling very self conscious of this loose skin over my belly button. I have had a breast lift with augmentation in 2003 so I'm wondering if a reverse tuck is the best option since the incision was made under my breasts. I am extremely active, work out 5 days a week eat very low carb diet, but within past two years I've noticed the skin is much looser. I have 1 pregnancy and delivered by c-section.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  There may be a better option such as another type of tummy tuck.  In order to make this decision, your skin laxity must be assessed with an in-person examination, as you may be tight in the closure based on your photograph.   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

Michelle Zweifler, MD · Answer

Reverse Tummy tuck has few indications.   Realistic expectations are important, especially downward migration of the scar, possible breast changes, and overall aesthetics.  This should all be discussed at your consultation. In general, to obtain a flatter abdomen traditional abdominoplasty provides the best results.  Tummy tucks redrape down and excises the excess skin with tightening the bulging muscle and repositioning the belly button.  Scars are low on the abdomen.

Sean Younai, MD, FACS · Answer

pregnancy or weight loss can result in loose upper abdominal skin. Some women who are very think and only have excess upper abdominal skin folds consider a Reverse Abdominoplasty. Unfortunately, a reverse tummy tuck can have a very limited result, and for those with significant upper abdominal skin could result in remaining midline excess skin folds. It can also result in widening or stretching of the scars and possibly downward displacement of breast implants.

Keith M. Blechman, MD · Answer

A standard tummy tuck is a powerful surgical technique that will address even loose upper abdominal skin.  There is rarely an indication for a reverse tummy tuck.A visit to a plastic surgeon's office will help you to understand if you're a candidate for the procedure, and what aesthetic outcomes are realistic in your particular case.  In order to get a qualified, ethical, and expert opinion on your surgical options and expectations, always schedule an in-person office consultation with a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
I'm happy to see you for a free consultation in my New York office.
Best of luck,
Keith M. Blechman, MD
New York, NY

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

You do not appear to have a lot of lose skin to warrant a tummy tuck- regular or reverse.Personally, I use Vaser ultrasound liposuction and/or Smart Lipo laser for skin tightening without a large scar and with little down time.An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon who performs these procedures is recommended to confirm you are a candidate as well as discuss your options, limitations  and expectations.

Rohit Jaiswal, MD · Answer

A reverse tummy tuck may be an option given your upper abdominal laxity and previous incisions for the breast lift/augmentation. However, a standard tummy tuck may also be performed to address your complaints. A reverse tummy tuck is not commonly done, and may be considered appropriate in patients who have undergone massive weight loss with severe upper abdominal skin laxity that was not eliminated with a tummy tuck. 
It may even be possible that you don't need a tummy tuck procedure to address your complaints. An in person examination would allow a surgeon to determine the degree of skin laxity, fat, and abdominal wall laxity. Liposuction with VASER to stimulate skin contraction or a treatment with a radiofrequency device may be options. Consultation with a board certified or board eligible plastic surgeon will allow you to discuss all appropriate treatment options with a qualified, safe physician.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

electricaa.    Physical exam would be ideal but it appears that reverse Tummytuck may be an option for you.  However, the scar adjoining the breast augmentation scars can be disappointing. Also complete muscle plication not possible. Be sure to consult with a board certified plastic surgeon to explore all options. Good luck!

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

In my opinion just because you have scars in the folds of the breast doesn't mean that it is worth extending that scar across the entire upper chest.  The lower scar with a full tummy tuck is much better concealed and that would be my recommendationBest of luck!
Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Kevin Tehrani, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting an appropriate picture. You may very well be a good candidate for a reverse abdominoplasty especially since you have scars in the fold of you breasts. Of course an examination would be necessary for precise recommendations. Check out our webpage for more details.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear electricaa,I disagree with most of my colleagues answers and find that, if anyone, you are the ideal candidate for a reverse tummy tuck.  You have relatively localized loose upper abdominal skin and pre-existent inframammary scars...perfect!  Good luck!

Is a reverse tummy tuck the right procedure for my loose upper abdominal skin? (Photos)

Answers (17)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (17)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

Will my belly button ever heal? (Photo)

Do Surgeons normally give discounts to returning patients?

Does Blue Cross Shield cover belly fat removal and skin tightening?

I wanted to know if a 360 Tummy tuck, Extended Tummy tuck and a lower body lift are the same things but just different terms?

Tummy Tuck w/ lipo using IV sedation and a local?

Leakage after drain tube removal, can I use neosporin with gauze?

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS