Will a Fleur de Lis fix my body lift issue & is there another way to go about it? (Photos)

Question

I had a lower body lift done in early may. My surgeon informed me that a lower body lift may not be enough to address my skin issues due to laxity. I have an FDL incision planned in october but i'm wondering if there's another way to go about it? I really don't want the vertical scar.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You may benefit from a back lift.  The incision from your previous breast lift can be used posteriorly and will pull up the upper abdomen.  At the same time, you can undergo a revision of the tummy tuck to pull down the lower abdomen skin.  I do not recommend a fleur de lis.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Naynay899,

Thank you for reaching out regarding your concerns about addressing skin laxity following your lower body lift procedure. From the photos you've provided, it's evident that you're seeking solutions to achieve your desired body contour.

Given your apprehension about the vertical scar associated with a Fleur de Lis (FDL) procedure, I'd like to introduce you to an alternative option known as vertical torsoplasty, sometimes referred to as the "hourglassing" procedure. This technique aims to enhance the contours of the torso while minimizing the appearance of a vertical scar.

Vertical torsoplasty involves creating a vertical incision along the midline of the abdomen, extending from the lower portion of the sternum to the pubic area. Through this incision, excess skin and tissue are removed, and the abdominal muscles may be tightened to achieve a more defined waistline and hourglass silhouette.

One of the advantages of vertical torsoplasty is its ability to address both horizontal and vertical laxity, particularly in the central abdominal region. By strategically placing the incision along the midline, the resulting scar can often be concealed within the natural contours of the body, minimizing its visibility.

Additionally, vertical torsoplasty offers the flexibility to combine liposuction with the procedure, allowing for further refinement of body contours and removal of stubborn fat deposits. If desired, liposuction can be performed approximately two months after the vertical torsoplasty to fine-tune your results and enhance your overall silhouette.

While vertical torsoplasty may involve a longer incision compared to a traditional lower body lift, many patients find that the benefits of achieving a more sculpted and proportionate figure outweigh their concerns about scarring. It's essential to discuss your preferences and goals with your plastic surgeon during the consultation to ensure that you're comfortable with the proposed treatment plan.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo vertical torsoplasty or any other procedure should be based on a thorough evaluation of your unique anatomy, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences. Your plastic surgeon can provide expert guidance and recommend the most suitable approach to address your specific concerns while minimizing the visibility of scars.

I hope this information helps clarify your options for addressing skin laxity following your lower body lift. If you have any further questions or would like to discuss your treatment plan in more detail, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katzen

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

After major weight loss it's not uncommon to stage the procedures in order to maximize the results due to the amount of loose skin.  If you are concerned about the appearance of the abdomen it may be worth it to address the excess laxity.  If not, you have had significant improvement from your prior procedures.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

You have a nice result with drastic improvement.

Unfortunately, after massive weight loss, several stages may be required.

A fleur de lis will tighten across the waist/torso in a horizontal direction which a traditional tummy tuck/ body lift does not fully address. Lesser options such as liposuction which will not remove skin will typically not narrow the waist. Trade off of the fleur de lis is the vertical up and down scar but usually worth it.

You have to decide if you want the scar and results or not by further discussions with your plastic surgeon.

Yily De Los Santos, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and pictures and congratulations on your great results, your Surgeon did a great job.

Based on my experience, you could go for another traditional Tummy Tuck if you have enough skin (that can be determined on a personal consultation), the abdominal muscles will be strengthen with the muscle repair, your waist will be smaller and the scar will be where it currently is.

Will a Fleur de Lis fix my body lift issue & is there another way to go about it? (Photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Fleur de lis for waist

Answer: Fleur de lis for waist

Answer: Regular Tummy Tuck

Answer: Regular Tummy Tuck

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Will a Fleur de Lis fix my body lift issue & is there another way to go about it? (Photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Fleur de lis for waist

Answer: Fleur de lis for waist

Answer: Regular Tummy Tuck

Answer: Regular Tummy Tuck

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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.