Will I be ok getting a standard tummy tuck instead of an extended tummy tuck? Will the skin on my sides be addressed? (Photo)

Each surgeon will have a different definition of their abdominal plasty technique. In my practice if the incision extends beyond the hip bones to include the flanks, then I called this and extended abdominal plasty. In my opinion. This is what you need. I also think that liposuction is extremely important in achieving the best result in your case I would do an extended abdominal plasty with liposuction of your waist, axilla back and flanks

In all of the procedures you are inquiring about, you will be trading excess skin for a scar (due to the skin removal). In general, the longer the scar, the better your contour will be. This fact is certainly true of an extended abdominoplasty. Whether or not your surgeon charges more for an extended abdominoplasty vs. a standard abdominoplasty will be up to them. Your sequence of skin removal surgeries sounds reasonable and should address your areas of concern. However, it is important to note that many times after weight loss the hips and flanks can be "effaced" by natural weight loss and skin sagging giving you a more "flat" appearance regardless of surgical technique used. Fat transfer can be used to combat this but will need to be a conversation between you and your surgeon whether or not you will have enough fat to harvest and inject to make any significant difference. Still, after the skin removal you will likely still be happy with the improved contour.

There is no real definition I Know between a standard tummy tuck and extended tummy tuck. Basically, I would extend the incision as far as needed for the best result. This is going to be different on everybody. I do not know of any true definition between a standard and extended tummy tuck, because what would you call something in between??? and then what do you charge?

Dear Bluedreamer88,
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

Thanks for your question! I can't tell from the photos if I think a full or extended tummy tuck is necessary. However, I would definitely recommend liposuction to the flank area to help give you more of an hourglass shape. I would recommend doing that in conjunction with the tummy tuck. Good luck!

Thank you for your question. Based on your pictures and goals, an extended tummy tuck might offer better results than a standard tummy tuck for achieving an hourglass shape. It addresses excess skin not just in the abdomen but also on the flanks and lower back. While a standard tummy tuck combined with other procedures like breast lift, implants, and arm lift will improve your body contour, the extended version could be more effective for comprehensive shaping. It's important to discuss with a plastic surgeon to determine the best approach for your body.

Thank you for your question and photos. I believe you will be best served with an extended tummy tuck. The longer the incision, the grater the amount of excess tissue that can be removed. Additionally, a brachioplasty would remove the excess upper arm skin and fat. Concerning your breasts, a mastopexy or breast lift combined with an implant will give you the best results. These procedures should be staged. Visit with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to have your all your questions answered.

Hello Bluedreamer88,

First off, I want to say a big congratulations on your weight loss journey - losing over 120 pounds is a significant achievement. It's great to hear that you're considering a mommy makeover to complement this transformation.

Given your history of three C-sections, significant weight loss, and your plans for future procedures, it sounds like you're on a well-thought-out path. When it comes to choosing between a standard tummy tuck and an extended tummy tuck, there are a few things to consider.

A standard tummy tuck works wonders in tightening the abdominal area, especially after pregnancies and weight loss. However, it primarily focuses on the front of your abdomen. From your description and the photos you've shared, it seems that you might benefit more from an extended tummy tuck or a 360 lower body lift. These procedures address not just the front of your abdomen but also the sides, hips, and back area, which might be exactly what you need to tackle the skin on your sides and underarms.

Regarding achieving an hourglass shape – this is definitely a possibility, especially with the inclusion of fat transfer in your procedure. Transferring fat to strategic areas like your hips can enhance your natural contours and help achieve that coveted hourglass figure.

As for your plans for a breast lift with implants, an arm lift, and a bra line back lift, these will definitely contribute to a more complete rejuvenation and can be tailored to suit your body’s needs and your aesthetic goals.

The key here is to talk with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can take a look at your specific case in detail. They can guide you on whether a standard tummy tuck will meet your expectations or if an extended version or a body lift would be more appropriate. Every person’s body is unique, so what works for one might not be the best for another.

Keep in mind that achieving the desired shape is a journey, and it’s great to see you planning it so thoughtfully. I’m sure with the right procedures, you'll be able to achieve the look you're hoping for.

If you have any more questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Firstly, congratulations for your weight loss and good luck with next 20 lbs. It is really impossible to say what your results will be since you would need a variety of different procedures and these will need to be staged in different surgeries. I perform a large number of Mommy Makeovers AND body contouring procedure after weight loss. Could you get a good result with a standard tummy tuck? Yes. Will it be better if you also have skin removed from your flanks and lower back? Yes. You really need to be seen in person so that you can discuss all your options.

In my experience, patients who have lost more than 100 pounds need an extension of the abdominoplasty incision to achieve the best shape and contour to their trunk. As you are already planning to have two surgeries, I might suggest your second surgery to be a combined extended brachioplasty with lateral thoracoplasties and breast lifts with implants as a single procedure. This should not only contour the skin of your arms, but your back and breasts as well. Check with your plastic surgeon whether they perform this as a combination. Best wishes.

I would begin with your breasts using a breast lift called 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. At the same time, you can undergo a brachioplasty to improve your arms. After 3-6 months, you can undergo a tummy tuck. If you are not planning future pregnancies, I recommend abdominoplasty with mesh reinforcement. The mesh creates a more hourglass figure by compressing the abdominal wall resulting in early satiety and helps maintain a reduced weight. The skin on your sides is mostly high and that will be improved with a back lift. This can be done at the same time as the tummy tuck or later.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.