About Extended Tummy Tuck Surgery
An extended tummy tuck is an excellent option to consider to address major drooping, sagging, and stretch marks around the stomach and sides following extreme weight loss.
When a person gains a lot of weight, the skin stretches out to accommodate the added girth but will only shrink back so much. This is part of the nature of skin laxity. By having an extended tummy tuck performed, you will be able to improve the overall appearance of your body contour.
The Difference Between Extended Tummy Tuck and Traditional Tummy Tuck
The primary difference between a traditional tummy tuck and an extended tummy tuck has to do with the length of the primary lateral incision along the lower abdominal area, which we will address in a bit. The extended incision allows cosmetic surgeons to make more extensive revisions of the patient’s abdominal region.
Ideal Candidates for Extended Tummy Tuck Surgery
The best candidates for extended tummy tuck surgery are people who were morbidly obese but have lost a lot of weight as a result of bariatric surgery or natural means. They should be in good overall health and not suffer from any kinds of medical conditions that would be risky if performed.
Candidates for extended tummy tuck surgery should also have realistic expectations about the healing process and scarring and what recovery will entail. These expectations will improve patient satisfaction.
The Extended Tummy Tuck Procedure
Performed under general anesthetic, the extended tummy tuck procedure involves three incisions:
- One primary lateral incision that extends from the back of one hipbone around the side and the lower abdomen to the opposite back of the hipbone
- One circular incision around the navel so that it can be repositioned
- One vertical incision that connects the two previous ones
Through these incisions, surgeons are able to remove excess skin and fat, revise the underlying structures of the abdomen, and suture the remaining skin in such a way that exceptionally improved body contour is possible.
Healing After Extended Tummy Tuck Surgery
Healing after an extended tummy tuck takes longer than a traditional tummy tuck simply given the extent of the incisions involved. Patients should be able to return to work after ten days to two weeks depending on the nature of their job. Patients should get a lot of rest and avoid all strenuous physical activities until advised otherwise.
A compression garment will be worn by patients for a few weeks in order to support the body, provide comfort during healing, and to reduce swelling. Follow-up visits to the practice will be scheduled in order to monitor the overall healing process.
Full pre-op and post-op instructions will be provided to all extended tummy tuck patients during their consultation.
Schedule a Consultation for Advanced Body Contouring Surgery
For more information about extended tummy tuck surgery and your many other options out there for advanced body sculpting and contouring, be sure to contact our cosmetic plastic surgery center today. Dr. Gaines looks forward to your visit and helping you achieve all of your aesthetic goals through the latest surgical techniques.