2 kids, 1 emergency c-section, 1 Vbac, extended tummy tuck required? (Photos)

Question

Hi There, I have had a few consults and seem to be getting mixed opinions. I am getting a mommy makeover but cannot get a clear answer if a regular or extended tummy tuck is best. I do not have any skin laxity on my flanks, it is mostly in the middle as I tried to depict. However, I do have a lot of fat on my flanks. I was hoping Lipo would take care of this. if relevant - I have had 2 kids, one emergency c section & one vbac. weight lost after 1st pregnancy 70lbs, and 50lbs after my secon

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

You have developed a severe saggy skin not only abdomen and also in lovehandles as the result of the the huge about of fat gaining and losing after every pregnancy. 
Your lovehandles are very thick and after liposuction the area will become extremely saggy and wrinkly, so you will be a great candidate for a Circumferential Tummy Tuck to remove the saggy skin on your abdomen and also lovehandles and take advantage to lift the buttocks, muscle repair to achieve a flatter abdomen and smaller waistline, Mons lift and liposuction to waist and lovehandles. If you want add some volume to buttocks. 
Just have in mind you are not getting any younger and the saggy lovehandles will only be worst in a just couple of years. 
As expert in After Weight loss surgery I am very familiar with patients who have developed severe degree of saggy skin. My goal is total rejuvenation. 
Be encouraged!
Dr. Cárdenas

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Based on the left lateral photo, it appears that the skin fold extends at least partway on to the flanks.  Unless this loose skin were removed, you might have residual skin laxity ("dog ears") in this area.  You would need a proper assessment to determine the exact length of the incision but based on the images it seems that a short incision might not address this area of skin laxity.  Certain liposuction modalities can tighten skin a little, but not typically to the same extend as actually excising the skin.  In my experience, most of my patients will accept a longer scar if it creates a better contour, but this is an important discussion to have with your surgeon as part of the informed consent process.

Mahira Tanovic, MD · Answer

Hello!
This is a great question.From the photos you have provided, it seems that your incision would be from hip to hip for the best possible aesthetic results. 
As always, an in-office consultation is required to really examine your abdomen and your own unique anatomy, as well as discuss the procedure and any questions you may have.
Best,Dr. Tanovic

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear svscorad,
based on your photos, you look like a good candidate for a TT. Full tummy tuck should tighten your abdominal muscles and remove the excess skin. Flanks liposuction would give you a better shape. I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon because only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

You are a candidate for a mommy makeover.  I would begin with your breasts using The Bellesoma Method.  This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained.  You will need an extended tummy tuck and may even need a posterior continuation, depending on how the wound heals anteriorly.  I would do the breasts and tummy is one surgery and then consider liposuction or circumferential lift in the second surgery.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

2 kids, 1 emergency c-section, 1 Vbac, extended tummy tuck required? (Photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Bellesoma Method and tummy tuck and then liposuction or circumferential lift

Answer: Bellesoma Method and tummy tuck and then liposuction or circumferential lift

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

2 kids, 1 emergency c-section, 1 Vbac, extended tummy tuck required? (Photos)

Answers (10)

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Tummy tuck

Answer: Bellesoma Method and tummy tuck and then liposuction or circumferential lift

Answer: Bellesoma Method and tummy tuck and then liposuction or circumferential lift

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.