Is hourglass shape TT possible w/out mesh?

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

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.

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.