Finding a surgeon: Standard TT vs FDL experience/photos? (Photos)

Question

Based on how much weight I've lost (212lbs) and what I think is horizontal laxity (less than ideal photos attached), I suspect I may be recommended to get an FDL tummy tuck over a standard one. I’ve had a bit of a hard time researching surgeons because it seems very few display pictures of multiple FDL results. There are plenty, however, who showcase excellent standard TT results. I have two questions: 1. Is a surgeon’s skill/results with a standard tummy tuck likely to translate well to an FDL tummy tuck? 2. Is it rude or unusual to ask a surgeon’s office directly if you can come and see any FDL results they have, if they don’t have many posted? This would be before deciding to book a consult. Thank you for your help!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your impressive weight loss!  You can ask your surgeon for photos specifically related to FDL  approach.  You may have more luck with photos if researching board certified plastic surgeons who have helped patients after major weight loss.  I appeared on TLC's program Skin Tight which helped those who have lost significant weight restore their appearance.  I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

Michelle Zweifler, MD · Answer

There are several options of tummy tuck after massive weight loss.  A “standard” abdominoplasty usually removed skin downward with scars ending at the hips.  An extended tummy tuck may include remove the front abdominal and flank excess skin.  A lower body lift extended the abdomen and lower back helping to lift the buttock and often decreases the waist.

While a fleur-de-lys you are removing excess skin downwards and centrally with an additional vertical scar.  Fleur-de-lys helps narrow the waist.  Often plastic surgeons perform FDL tummy tuck if there is already a vertical scar and that the patient heals well.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. You would do very well with a lipoabdominoplasty with a low pubic bone level incision. You already show good underlying muscle definition and this can be further enhanced with VASER Hi Def Lipo technique. You do not need an FDL! It would be a mistake if you'll take that route. See a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in advanced body sculpting techniques for an in person consultation/evaluation. Good luck.

Ira H. Rex lll, MD · Answer

Many surgeons who specializes in tummy tucks would probably only infrequently do a fleur-de-lis pattern.  A standard or extended tummy tuck will often give the same or similar were better results without the ugly midline scar.  In very few cases do you need to do this much horizontal excision.  It seems to me from your photograph you may not need or want a fleur-de-lis pattern.  Having a consultation with a plastic surgeon certainly sounds like a good idea and after a good examination could they explain the benefits of each type of surgery.  Good luck.

Alper Eskalen, MD · Answer

Hi, I’m Dr.Eskalen from Istanbul/Turkey. FDL has a permanent and visible midline scar which is impossible to hide it. Your current form doesn’t need a FDL abdominoplasty. Only abdominoplasty is enough for you. I hope my message helps you. 
Best regards,Dr.Eskalen.

Finding a surgeon: Standard TT vs FDL experience/photos? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: What type of tummy tuck?

Answer: What type of tummy tuck?

Answer: You don’t need fdl at all

Answer: You don’t need fdl at all

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Finding a surgeon: Standard TT vs FDL experience/photos? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: What type of tummy tuck?

Answer: What type of tummy tuck?

Answer: You don’t need fdl at all

Answer: You don’t need fdl at all

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.