Umbilical float (FAB) abdominoplasty - Pros and cons?

Question

Hello, I’m considering a umbilical float (FAB) abdominoplasty. I have minor sagging and muscle separation after 2 kids. Can you tell me what is the difference between this procedure and a mini tuck? The pros and cons for a patient with my profile and the recovery time too? Thank you very much

John Reilly, MD, FACS · Answer

An umbilical float will lower the position of your belly button by at least 2 in. That may not be optimum for your shape. if you want to have the muscles fixed you're pretty close to a traditional but small abdominoplasty. Since you don't have a tremendous amount of excess skin you might have a short vertical scar down low that might actually connect with your horizontal scar in the shape of an upside down letter T. Make sure your surgeon uses Ink on your skin to show you the location of the horizontal scar and the possibility of having the vertical scar so it will be well below your garments. Good luck

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, an umbilical float abdominoplasty typically involves detaching the belly button and reattaching it at a slightly lower position on the abdomen.  The operation might be combined with muscle tightening (rectus plication).  In contrast, usually with a mini tummy tuck the umbilicus is left attached and the upper abdominal muscles are not tightened.  The FAB procedure reshapes the upper abdomen a little more but unless a person's belly button is already sitting a little higher than they like, the person might not like the lower position of the belly button afterward.  You would need a full history and physical examination by a plastic surgeon so they could assess your skin and muscle tone before helping you decide which of these options would best meet your goals.

Andre P. Marshall, MD · Answer

Hi rettedgui, 
Umbilical floating allows you to keep your same belly button while also getting full muscle repair of your abdomen. The belly button often sits a little lower than it is now after the surgery. This procedure is especially helpful in patients with a naturally high belly button and minimal loose abdominal skin. With a mini tummy tuck the belly button is (usually) not moved and the muscle above the belly button are (usually) not repaired but it vareis from provider to provider. Based on your pictures you would most likely benefit from a full muscle repair and full tummy tuck to address the extra loose skin you have. Each board certified plastic surgeon has their own techniques and preferences. Make sure the one you choose clearly explains your options and realistic goals for your body. 
Dr. Andre P. MarshallDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Kevin Tehrani, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and posting appropriate pictures. Not very many patients are a good candidate for a mini abdominoplasty and you seem to be one. Umbilical cfloat is it technique used to relocate your belly button. I find this to not provide depth in the umbilicus which is an aesthetic component. I like combining mini abdominoplasty with skin tightening using Renuvion. It’s best to have a virtual consultation to have options discussed of course.‘s

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

You appear to be an ideal candidate for an umbilical float procedure.  It allows the full length of the rectus diastasis to be corrected without an umbilical scar.  Only skin below the belly button is tightened.  The skin around the umbilicus is not tightened.  Recovery is slightly faster because the skin is not pulled as tight.

Umbilical float (FAB) abdominoplasty - Pros and cons?

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Umbilical float (FAB) abdominoplasty - Pros and cons?

Answers (10)

Answer: Mini abdominoplasty

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Answer: Unbuckle float procedure: pros and cons?

Answer: Unbuckle float procedure: pros and cons?

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