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

Question

I have a low, healthy BMI and not much loose skin. I have no diastasis recti that I can detect. Will my recovery time/ pain be similar to a patient with alot of loose flesh to remove? Could I ask my doctor for a tummy tuck without muscle repair?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Finny George, MD · Answer

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.

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

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!

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

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.

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

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.

Matthew S. Kilgo, MD · Answer

Hello. In general, muscle repair is an important part of an abdominoplasty procedure, particularly in thin patients. Rectus diastasis may not always be obvious but often presents as mild prominence in the lower abdomen. If you have had children it is more likely than not that you have some muscle separation. In my opinion, skin only resection will probably lead to less than optimal results. If post operative pain is a concern, I suggest you ask your surgeon to perform a nerve block with a long acting local anesthetic during the procedure . I hope this helps.

Harry T. Haramis, MD, FACS · Answer

Tummy tuck without muscle repair is an easier, shorter recovery. Skin excision will improve your abdomen’s appearance.

An exam and consultation with a plastic surgeon is recommended to confirm your muscle status as well as discuss your options and expectations.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You appear to have a lot of excess skin. Unfortunately, you have not provided a lateral view. At the time of surgery, the muscle is not repaired but the lining of the muscle, called fascia, is repaired. Fascia is also stretched with pregnancies and weight gain and loss. Repairing the fascia is more painful than not but can give a better result.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You can have a tummy tuck with no muscle repair if you desire. Your tummy won’t be quite as flat but your recovery will be easier. The choice is up to you

Steve Laverson, MD, FACS · Answer

YES, you can ask for any procedure that you want, and refuse any and all procedures that you do not want.  The goal and raison d'etre of aesthetic surgery is to convert your liabilities to assets.  The question is, "What procedure and techniques should be applied so you L❤️VE showing your belly in a bikini?"  This is how we approach abdominoplasty, and recommend fascial plication in the vast majority.

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