I have great firm skin, totally unpinchable. Is this a problem for a tummy tuck?

During the tummy tuck procedure, the deep fat attachments are separated from the muscles so the skin can be advanced downward more easily.  A large flap of abdominal skin and underlying fat is created during the procedure which is re-draped downward to provide a smooth, flat abdomen.  The degree of potential skin movement can be difficult to appreciate by just pinching the skin. Generally speaking, healthier (more elastic) skin will give longer lasting results to any procedure.  It sounds like you may need to discuss the specific details of how the procedure is done with your surgeon to gain a better understanding. You should be comfortable with everything prior to surgery. Best wishes!

Don’t worry, it’s not a silly question!  Bulging after pregnancy can also be caused by separated abdominal muscles (diastasis recti). If this is the case, then a tummy tuck would be more suitable for you. However, if you don’t have diastasis recti and only have excess fat, without skin laxity, then liposuction may be a better option for you. However, I suggest you see a board certified plastic surgeon in person to determine which procedure is more suitable.

Dear 40'ish,    Front and side view pictures would have been very helpful. The firmness of the skin is not as important, in tummy tuck surgery,  as much as the skin laxity. If your skin is tight, all it means is that , most likely, you  will have a small vertical scar in the low mid abdomen , which is the old belly button location. Other than that, you should have flat stomach with tight and youthful looking skin, nice belly button and improved body posture, like any other tummy tuck.   As far as combining tummy tuck with liposuction, it is not a good idea, due to significant increases in severe complication. In a recent article in the plastic surgery journal that was based on data from cosmetic surgery only insurance company, it was revealed that combining tummy tuck with liposuction surgery  increases the severe complication rate X 10  in comparison to tummy tuck surgery  alone.      Also, in Florida, it is illegal to perform  tummy tuck with liposuction surgery  of over 1000 cc, which is a relatively  small amount, due to severe complications including multiple deaths that were revealed in state investigation...   Always, consult with experienced board certified plastic surgeons who operate in accredited surgery center for your safety. Most importantly, check the before and after pictures in the photo gallery, to make sure that they are numerous, consistent and attractive with the above mentioned features and low scar.                       Best of luck,                                      Dr Widder   

Pinch an inch is an expression we use about the extra skin that maybe left after liposuction and repairing your diastasic rectus or weakened abdominal wall. Good luck...

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  In order to perform a tummy tuck, some skin laxity is needed in order to close your abdomen.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

If you have great skin elasticity you may be a better candidate for liposuction versus a tummy tuck. I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation. An exam and discussion of your goals will determine the best recommendation for you. I've included a video I hope you find helpful.

It sounds like your issue is more muscle  laxity  rather  than excess skin. A thorough PE is  important  since there are  different  types of abdominal procedures, all of which are term TT.

Hello dear! 
Thanks for your question and provided information as well.
Unfortunately, without pictures is hard to determine what would be good for you.Definitely, a firm skin is a great benefit when performing liposuction, but I recommend you to make an appointment with a board plastic surgeon for a good evaluation and to talk about your goals.
Good luck :)

Thank you for your question.Firm skin is an asset during body contouring procedures as you can be more aggressive and expect skin retraction which will aid in the results. I personally perform lipoabdominoplasty which allows excellent movement of the skin while preserving blood flow.  The removal of the fat facilitated movement as well. Best Dr. L

This is difficult to answer without a direct examination. I would therefore recommend you discuss this with your surgeon in advance of the procedure. Schedule another appointment with the surgeon to discuss your concerns.