Gained 80 lbs over several years after tummy tuck, now lost 50 - WRINKLY ABDOMEN. Would a reverse tummy tuck help? (Photos)

Question

Hello, I’m 56 and I had a tummy tuck (and breast implants) in 2002 (23 years ago) - over the past 10 years I’ve managed to put on 80 pounds (thanks menopause) … but now I’ve lost 50 and still continuing to lose. However - my mid section refuses to budge and now I’m left once again with wrinkly skin. My initial thoughts are I’d like to have my breast implants removed and have a lift - which I’ve heard of “reverse tummy tuck” and it seems that when I pull my skin upwards (from under breast) that gets rid of all these wrinkles. I’m disgusted that I gained 80 lbs in the first place, I’m glad I’ve lost weight and intend to keep it off, but now I’m even further disgusted that I’ve went through all the pain of the tummy tuck originally and paid an exorbitant price and now I’m all wrinkly again … I’m posting some pics - the one where it’s a side by side the beautiful pic was over 10 years post tummy tuck but right before the weight gain and menopause …. The others are at my current weight loss (of 50 lbs) … need some help ….

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Exciting734,

it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.

Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Chet Mays, MD · Answer

Thank you for your inquiry! A small amount of skin laxity is normal following an abdominoplasty procedure. As we age, menopause, or weight fluctuations can all cause our skin to become more lax to the point where there is additional skin that could be removed. 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 assess your abdomen and create a plan for you!

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on these photos, it appears that vertical excision of abdominal  skin (wrinkled area) may be considered. Only on the basis of in person consultation surgeon can decide about exact pattern of skin excision; poor skin tone and laxity is not good indication for upper abdominoplasty. Good luck.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

From the submitted photos you will need to consider a standard approach tummy tuck for your revision.  The reverse tuck will not give you the best results.  Liposuction can be added for enhanced contouring.  Once you have reached your goal weight and are able to maintain it you are then ready for surgery.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

The poster photos are in undergarments best to post in nude, including breast to see if it’s possible to combine those two procedures in the same incision. I think it might be doubtful. Again best of virtual consult or post better photos regards additionally expect a combination fee to run $25-$35,000 in that combination.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Please do not do the reverse tuck. it usually does not work and winds up pulling your breasts down to a still wrinkled abdomen. You could have a vertical tuck or redo the full tuck. You could also consider liposuction the minimally invasive radiofrequency skin tightening like Renuvion.

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