30, 5'10, 160lbs, reverse tummy tuck? Or other procedures to get rid of this extra flab? (Photos)

Hello, the majority of my patients with loose skin on the abdomen that does not improve with non-surgical treatments, will choose to have a regular tummy tuck. This operation allows me to make the incision low in the pubic region and remove any redundant skin there. If you pull up on your abdominal skin (like in the posted photos) you might notice this pulls the hair-bearing pubic mound skin higher on the abdomen. Most of my patients don't like this look, so I remove excess pubic skin during the operation. The resulting scar is typically hidden by undergarments.

Thank you for your questions and photos. From your photos, you would be a good candidate for a tummy tuck with liposuction. A tummy tuck will address excess skin & repair of the abdominal muscle. The abdominal wall can be weakened after pregnancy and (or) significant weight gain & loss. By repairing the muscle, not only does the appearance of your abdominal area improve, but your core strength as well. The repair of the muscle will cinch your waist like an inner corset which will accentuate your curves. Liposuction will remove excess fat from unwanted areas with some skin retraction. Your expectations and health will dictate the best procedure(s) for you. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon to go over the options that best address your goals. Best of luck!

Dhaval Patel MD
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

South Barrington
Oakbrook Terrace
Orland Park

Dear Helpful344299,

Thank you for sharing your concerns, history, and photos. Based on the details you've provided, I'd like to offer some insights.

While a reverse tummy tuck addresses the upper abdomen, your primary concern seems to be the skin and fat below the belly button, particularly noticeable on your profile view. In cases like yours, a traditional tummy tuck often yields better results than a reverse tummy tuck.

A reverse tummy tuck may not provide optimal results for the area from the belly button to the pubic region, especially when considering muscle repair. It appears that your abdomen is distended in this region, indicating the need for muscle plication.

I recommend considering a standard tummy tuck, wherein an incision is made from hip to hip across the top of the pubic region. This procedure allows for comprehensive muscle plication, reduction of the mons, and removal of excess skin and fat in the affected area. With a traditional tummy tuck, the dissection would extend up to the sternum, ensuring a tighter and more toned abdomen.

While cost is often a consideration, it's essential to prioritize the quality and experience of your chosen plastic surgeon over pricing alone. Your safety and satisfaction are paramount.

I hope this clarifies the benefits of a traditional tummy tuck over a reverse tummy tuck for your specific needs. Best wishes on your journey towards a more contoured abdomen.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen