Am I a candidate for a tummy tuck without muscle repair? What should I expect recovery to look like? (photos)

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. You are a good candidate for a standard tummy tuck. The recovery may be a little easier if you choose not to have the muscle repair.

Thank you for your inquiry! You have excess abdominal skin making you a great candidate for an abdominoplasty procedure. Yes, if there is no diastasis recti separation detected then the procedure would be an abdominal dermolipectomy. We would love to see you in person and help you reach your goals. Schedule a consultation with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon like myself and we can create a surgical plan for you!

Generally speaking, patients experience a less intensive recovery when no muscle repair is performed. However, each patient is unique therefore it would be difficult to say how your experience will be in comparison. You can discuss your concerns with your surgeon and let them know that you prefer that no muscle repair is performed. It may not even be recommended if it’s not necessary to achieve your aesthetic goals.

Hi there and thank you for your question. By examining your photo, you appear to be a good candidate for a tummy tuck without muscle repair.

Advantages of a Tummy Tuck Without Muscle Repair:

Less Invasive Procedure: Without the need for muscle tightening, the surgery is less invasive, which can result in a shorter operating time and fewer risks.
Quicker Recovery: Recovery time tends to be faster and less painful compared to a full tummy tuck with muscle repair. Since the abdominal muscles remain intact, there is less internal trauma, leading to reduced discomfort and a quicker return to daily activities.
Less Post-Operative Pain: Patients who undergo a tummy tuck without muscle repair typically report less post-operative pain. The most painful part of the traditional tummy tuck is often the muscle repair, so by skipping this step, you may have a smoother and less painful recovery process.
Recovery Expectations: Although your recovery will likely be easier than for patients who undergo muscle repair, you will still need to take it easy for the first few weeks. You may experience swelling, bruising, and tightness in the abdominal area, but these symptoms should subside more quickly than they would with a full tummy tuck. Most patients can resume light activities within two weeks and return to full activity, including exercise, after about 4-6 weeks.

It’s essential to have a detailed consultation with your plastic surgeon to determine if you are an ideal candidate for a tummy tuck without muscle repair, especially if you do not have significant rectus diastasis or muscle laxity.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

You do have excess skin below the belly button, and a little excess above the belly button. In order to address the laxity above the belly button you would in typical practice need a full tummy tuck. This would be very tight, and a more difficult recovery than most patients. I suggest a skin removal on the lower abdomen, which some people would call a mini tummy tuck. The upper pole laxity can be addressed with body tite or renuvion. These modalities tighten skin, without requiring a large incision.