Super extended tummy tuck: one or two incisions?

Question

For a super extended tummy tuck do I get two incisions one in the lower abdomen and one right in the middle of the abdomen from top of abdomen to the lower abdomen? I am confused. I saw pictures and it looks as if they have two scars. And if so, is there anyway where I can still get a TT with just the lower incision?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,

Thank you for your question. The abdominal incisions that you refer to may be the fleur de lis which involve both vertical and horizontal incisions. This approach is sometimes used in cases of massive weight loss and excess skin. A typical extended Tummy Tuck will create an elongated, horizontal incision, low on the abdomen and no vertical. 
i recommend that you meet with a plastic surgeon in person so that they can examine you, talk about your goals and the best options for you.
Take care

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. A tummy tuck should be performed with one incision.  This can be done through a low 
incision, all completely below the bikini line. 
The belly button can be designed to look natural and have no scars on
the exterior.   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. FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Luis A. Vinas, MD · Answer

You are correct in been confused. An extended abdominoplasty means a longer lower incision in order to remove excess lateral skin. Often done in patients that loose a lot of weight and have loose skin. Patients that loose a lot of weight also tend to have excess skin along their circumference as well. If you want to have a tighter result in your circumference then a vertical scar can be added. It is not necessary and it will be discussed in detail prior to your surgery. In my practice with my vast experience, I rarely make the vertical scar. There are ways to enhance your waistline with a low extended horizontal scar. Please come in for a consultation with me and you will clear and understand it all. Thank you.Luis A. Viñas MD

Eric A. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

I would say most times there is only the standard lower incision with the extended tummy tuck. However, this incision is usually longer in order to remove the large amount of excess skin. There are some patients, especially the massive weight loss patients that have an abnormal amount of excess skin in the central upper abdomen. These patients may benefit from a vertical incision as well. This is an unusual situation and not the norm. Talk with your surgeon, so there are no surprises on surgery day.Eric Weiss MD

Jean Paul Giudicelli Saba, MD · Answer

Hi, thanks for sharing your concern with us! It would be just one incision, one its larger than the other. Please try to find a board certified plastic surgeon, remember that your safety, always, is going to be first. Have a great day! 
  
Dr. JPG

Israel Manon, MD · Answer

Hello
In a tummy tuck, a single incision is made in the lower part of the abdomen. I recommend you to consult a certified plastic surgeon who can explain the whole process so you can clarify your confusion (especially between different techniques of TT) and also to coordinate with him or her which procedures will fit your needs. Good luck.
Dr. Israel Mañon
Certified Plastic Surgeon

Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, FACS · Answer

An extended tummy tuck is indicated when the skin excess goes around towards the flanks and back.  this results in a longer lateral extension of the regular lower tummy tuck scar. It shouldn't require a separate scar.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Sorry not quite sure exactly what you are asking. Best to seek a few in person evaluations with board PSs in Miami. Also posting self photos always helps us respond in a more logical manner.

Super extended tummy tuck: one or two incisions?

Answers (8)

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