What type of tummy tuck do I need? (Photo)

Hello Graceful607065,

Thank you for your question regarding what type of tummy tuck you need. I understand the frustration of receiving varying opinions from different surgeons. Based on your description and photo, I recommend a traditional tummy tuck with muscle plication.

Given that you’ve had very big babies, it’s likely that your abdominal muscles have been stretched and may have separated (diastasis recti). Muscle plication, or tightening of the abdominal muscles, will help restore your core strength and give you a flatter stomach. A traditional tummy tuck will effectively remove the excess skin and fat from your lower abdomen. This is especially important since you mentioned having a larger tummy for your size. While an extended tummy tuck may be recommended for those with significant loose skin extending to the flanks or back, a traditional tummy tuck will suffice if your primary concern is the front of your abdomen. This procedure will help you achieve a balanced and proportionate look, especially since you are petite, by tightening your abdomen without extending the scar too far around your sides.

It’s completely normal to feel anxious about surgery. Rest assured that a traditional tummy tuck is a common procedure with predictable and satisfying results for many patients in your situation. Based on your height, weight, and history of having big babies, a traditional tummy tuck with muscle plication should provide you with excellent results. It will address both the muscle separation and excess skin, giving you a flatter, more toned abdomen. I hope this helps ease your anxiety and provides clarity on the best approach for your mommy makeover.

Good luck with your consultations and upcoming surgery.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Hello Graceful607065!
Whether it is called extended or not does not really matter. What is most important in making your decision is that you choose a surgeon that you connect with, one that answers all of your questions, one that has shown you before and after photos that are reasonable and true, one who you feel will be with you during recovery, one that is discussing optimal results but not promising perfection, one that has discussed risks with you. Consider pricing (a deal isn't what you are seeking and highest doesn't necessarily mean better). Consider proximity to where you live. If you have a great surgeon near you, that makes follow up appointments much easier, especially if you have something unplanned that your doctor wants to see you more often for). Don't get caught up in the name of the procedure, listen to what they are saying they will do.

Just based on your one photo, I would think the extended tuck would be best. However, you did not post side views and I have not done an examination. Go with the surgeon whom you like the best and whose photos you liked.