Is hourglass shape TT possible w/out mesh?

Question

Do you have to use mesh for a tummy tuck result with an hourglass shape? I would love to avoid implanting something foreign in my body but really want the hourglass TT result. Is it just as possible to get it without mesh, or less likely to be possible? Thank you!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Your question resonates with many patients who aspire for the hourglass silhouette without the introduction of foreign materials into their bodies. To clarify, a traditional tummy tuck procedure does not typically involve the use of mesh. Rather, it involves tightening the abdominal muscles and removing excess skin and fat, which can definitely enhance your waistline.

An hourglass figure can be achieved with a tummy tuck in conjunction with liposuction, especially targeting the flanks or 'love handles'. This approach reduces the waist size and can provide that coveted hourglass shape without the need for mesh.

Mesh is usually employed in cases where there's a significant hernia or abdominal wall weakness that needs additional support. It's not a standard part of a cosmetic tummy tuck intended for body contouring or achieving an hourglass figure.

As always, an in-person consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to determine the most suitable plan for your individual goals and circumstances.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katzen

Tommaso Addona, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
In my practice, I accompany any abdominoplasty with liposuction to the flanks in order to create an hourglass shape for my patients. A similar procedure may benefit you as well; however, without photos or evaluation it can be difficult to say. I would recommend meeting with a board certified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and for proper evaluation.

Justin K. Williams, MD · Answer

No, mesh is not a requirement and abdominoplasty. For me mesh is only used in abdominoplasty when the abdominal wall is exceedingly weak. This is RARE. Usually, women have weakness of the abdominal wall because the muscles have separated, and simply repairing the separation with sutures helps to give the natural hourglass appearance. That being said every patient has a slightly different body shape and in some patients who have more narrow hips, an hourglass appearance is harder to achieve.

Albert Ko, MD · Answer

Hi there! Thank you for your message! An hourglass shape can absolutely be achieved during a tummy tuck by using flank liposuction!

Angelica Kavouni, MD, PhD, FRCS(Eng) · Answer

Dear JWmommy it is possible if a diastasis repair is performed as well as lateral rectus plication. It means securely stitching the muscles together in the center and the sides of the abdomen to enhance the waist definition

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @JWmommy, thank you for your question. The use of mesh depends on the surgical technique of the surgeon that performs the procedure. It is important to remember that in your surgical plan there are a variety of possibilities that take into account your expectations and what is possible to achieve. For more information and recommendations, it is prudent to consult with one or several board certified plastic surgeons. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Of course it is! Interesting question. The mesh is only necessary in cases where there might be a very large deformity. In most cases normal muscle repair is more then enough.
 
In reality, an hourglass shape is more a result of a combination of things like liposuction of flanks and waist (maybe even back lipo), muscle repair and proper skin excision.

Adding fat to the hips also helps improve the hips to waist ratio. So if your planning on getting a TT with muscle repair, and wish to achieve a nice hourglass silhouette, consider getting a TT plus liposuction with a BBL to butt and hips.

Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

Andre P. Marshall, MD · Answer

Hi JWmommy,
An hourglass shaped is most dependent on your body's bone and muscle structure, particularly your ribs, intercostal (waist) muscles, and your hip bones. Depending on how these all align determines your final shape, along with the surgeon's liposuction technique to remove fat from these areas during surgery. The majority of plastic surgeons don't use mesh during this procedure but a fair number do. To my knowledge there is no scientific research that shows the importance of mesh in obtaining a certain postop figure. Rather, it is most commonly used to support the muscle repair, especially if the muscles or fascia are very weak. 
Dr. Andre P. MarshallDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Richard Baxter, MD · Answer

The types of mesh I use with tummy tucks include Galaflex and Durasorb, both of which gradually dissolve. They are made from the same material as absorbable sutures. The idea is to add strength to diastasis repair or abdominal wall shaping until the body has time to build strong tissue of its own. I have seen no significant issues with these materials with tummy tucks, so keep an open mind if your surgeon has recommended mesh.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear JWmommy,
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

Is hourglass shape TT possible w/out mesh?

Answers (19)