Would a full or mini tummy tuck help correct deformities from previous Bodytite procedure? 13 years post op (photo)

Thank you for your questions and photo. A tummy tuck will address excess skin & repair of the abdominal muscle. 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. For example: tummy tuck with floating your bellybutton to avoid vertical scar & high horizontal scar. I suggest a consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon that has vast experience with tummy tucks, can show you photos and give you options that best address your goals. Best of luck!

Dhaval Patel MD
Double Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

South Barrington
Oakbrook
Orland Park

Hello Amanda78, and thank you for your question regarding correcting deformities from a previous BodyTite procedure.

Based on your description and photos, you appear to be an excellent candidate for a tummy tuck to address the deformities caused by your previous BodyTite procedure. While you may not have significant loose skin above the navel, you do have enough skin laxity and stretch marks to benefit from skin removal through a full tummy tuck. Additionally, I would recommend muscle plication as part of the procedure to give you the most optimal and contoured results, even though you have not had children or experienced significant weight loss.

A mini tummy tuck, while less invasive, would not address the full extent of your concerns, particularly any deformities or unevenness in the upper and lower abdomen. While a full tummy tuck does come with a longer scar, it would allow for more comprehensive correction, including better skin tightening and improved abdominal contour.

Regarding the potential for a high vertical scar, this can often be minimized with precise surgical planning by an experienced surgeon. The risks associated with BodyTite-treated areas, such as compromised skin quality, should also be carefully evaluated during your consultation.

While stretch marks may not be entirely eliminated, many in the lower abdomen can be removed during the procedure, leaving the remaining ones less noticeable due to tighter, smoother skin.

I hope this helps you understand your options and gives you confidence in choosing the best approach for your goals. Always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure safe and effective results.

Sincerely,
J. Timothy Katzen, MD

Although your upper abdomen is cut off in your photo, it does appear that you have some excess upper abdominal skin is which is addressed with the full tuck.