It is similar to a traditional tummy tuck, but with an additional step of tightening the abdominal muscles and fascia that extends around the sides of the body. It is typically used for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, have weakened abdominal muscles, or have significant sagging skin in the abdominal area. The procedure typically involves making an incision from hip to hip and tightening the abdominal muscles, removing excess fat and skin, and repositioning the navel. It may also involve liposuction to further contour the abdomen. Recovery time may vary depending on the individual.
What is an Extended Tummy Tuck?
An extended tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that can help to improve the appearance of the midsection. It involves the removal of excess skin and fat, as well as tightening of the underlying abdominal muscles. The procedure is typically done in combination with liposuction in order to create a smoother and more toned abdominal appearance. The procedure is considered to be more involved than a traditional tummy tuck, since it requires a larger incision and may take longer to recover from. However, the results of an extended tummy tuck can be extremely effective, resulting in a flatter and firmer abdomen.
How Does an Extended Tummy Tuck Work?
An extended tummy tuck requires the surgeon to make a larger incision than a traditional tummy tuck. The surgeon will then remove excess skin and fat and tighten the underlying muscles. Depending on the patient’s needs, liposuction may also be used to further contour the abdomen. The navel is repositioned, and the skin is then re-draped over the abdomen. The results of an extended tummy tuck can be long-lasting and can provide the patient with a more toned and sculpted midsection.
1: An extended tummy tuck is a more comprehensive form of abdominoplasty that removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, hips, and waist.
This procedure also includes tightening of the abdominal muscles and fascia, which extends around the sides of the body. An extended tummy tuck is recommended for patients who have lost large amounts of weight, have weakened abdominal muscles, or have noticeable sagging skin in the abdominal area. The procedure involves making an incision from hip to hip, removing excess fat and skin, and repositioning the navel. It may also include liposuction to further contour the abdomen. Recovery time varies depending on the individual, but most patients can expect to fully recover within six to eight weeks.
2: The procedure begins with the patient being placed under general anesthesia. The surgeon then makes an incision from hip to hip across the lower abdomen.
3: The skin and fat are then separated from the underlying muscles, and excess fat and skin are removed.
The underlying abdominal muscles are tightened and sutured together to create a firmer profile. The navel is then repositioned and the skin is re-draped over the abdominal area. Liposuction may also be used to further contour the abdomen. Once the procedure is complete, the incision is closed and bandages are applied. Recovery time varies depending on the individual, but most patients can expect to fully recover within six to eight weeks.
4: The remaining skin is pulled tight, while the underlying muscles are tightened to create a flatter abdominal wall.
The incision is then closed with sutures, and dressing is applied. After the procedure, patients will need to wear a support garment to help support the abdominal area. They may also experience some swelling, bruising, or discomfort. Pain medications can be prescribed to help manage any discomfort. Overall, patients can expect to see results within a few weeks, with the full results becoming visible after three to six months.
5: A new navel is created, and the incisions are closed with sutures.
The area is then wrapped in dressings and a support garment. Patients may experience some bruising, swelling, or discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications. Results may take a few weeks to become visible, with full results visible after three to six months. Patients should follow their doctor’s instructions for post-operative care to ensure the best results.
6: Post-operative care typically involves wearing a compression garment for several weeks to prevent swelling and pain.
Patients should also avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks to allow the incisions to heal properly. It is also important to avoid direct sunlight around the incision, as this could cause permanent discoloration of the scar. Patients should also follow their doctor’s instructions for follow-up care, including any possible surgical revisions.
7: The patient should expect to take several weeks to recover from the extended tummy tuck procedure, though most patients can expect to return to their normal routine within six to eight weeks.
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications, including infection, excessive bleeding, and blood clots. Patients should discuss any potential risks and complications with their doctor before having the procedure. Results of the procedure, including improved body contour and abdominal tone, should last for many years.
Why Do Patients Choose an Extended Tummy Tuck?
Patients may choose an extended tummy tuck to address a more extensive area of the abdominal wall than a traditional tummy tuck. An extended tummy tuck can provide more dramatic results for those who have excess fat and skin in the lower abdomen. In addition, this type of procedure can also be used to remove stretch marks and tighten the abdominal wall, giving patients a flatter and more toned appearance. Ultimately, this procedure can help patients feel more confident in their body and achieve the look they desire.
Who Can Benefit from an Extended Tummy Tuck?
Patients who have excess skin, fat, and laxity in the lower and mid-abdomen are candidates for an extended tummy tuck. Those who have had significant weight loss, or those who have experienced multiple pregnancies may also be good candidates. Ultimately, the best way to determine if an extended tummy tuck is the right option for you is to talk to your doctor and discuss your goals and expectations.
1. Women who have had multiple pregnancies
Women who have had multiple pregnancies may be interested in an extended tummy tuck. This procedure is designed to address the excess skin and fat that can accumulate in the abdomen after multiple pregnancies. It can help to restore a woman’s body shape and improve her self-confidence. An extended tummy tuck may also be beneficial for women who have significant weight fluctuations due to yo-yo dieting or bariatric surgery. The procedure involves the removal of excess skin and fat, as well as tightening of the abdominal muscles, and can provide long-lasting results.
2. Women with significant abdominal laxity and loose skin
For women with significant abdominal laxity and loose skin, an extended tummy tuck procedure may be the best option for achieving a smoother, firmer abdominal contour. This procedure involves more extensive skin excision than a standard tummy tuck, and the surgeon may also need to repair weakened or separated abdominal muscles. By removing excess skin and tightening abdominal muscles, the results of an extended tummy tuck can be dramatic, helping to restore a flattering silhouette.
3. Women who have lost a significant amount of weight
For women who have lost a significant amount of weight, an extended tummy tuck may be the perfect way to achieve their desired look. By removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, hips, and back, this surgical procedure can help to restore the body’s natural contours and give women a more toned and youthful appearance. The extended tummy tuck also offers additional benefits such as improved posture, reduced cellulite, and better overall body proportion.
4. Men who have had massive amounts of weight loss
Men who have shed massive amounts of weight often find that they are left with excess skin that can cause them to feel self-conscious or uncomfortable. An extended tummy tuck can be an effective way to reduce this excess skin and provide a more toned look. This procedure provides more comprehensive results than a traditional tummy tuck, and it is growing in popularity among men who have had a significant amount of weight loss.
5. Men and women with significant damage to their abdominal muscles
Men and women who have significant damage to their abdominal muscles may benefit from an extended tummy tuck. This procedure is an advanced form of a traditional tummy tuck, which involves the removal of excess skin from the abdomen and tightening of the underlying abdominal muscles. An extended tummy tuck addresses both the skin and muscle problems associated with significant abdominal damage, providing a longer-lasting solution for those seeking an improved mid-section appearance.
6. Those with a large abdominal apron or excess fat in the abdominal region
For those who have a large abdominal apron or significant amounts of excess fat in the abdominal region, an extended tummy tuck may be the perfect solution. This surgical procedure can remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen as well as tightening the underlying muscles to create a smoother and more contoured look. An extended tummy tuck is often recommended for those with a considerable amount of excess skin in the abdominal area, and it can be especially beneficial for those who have experienced extreme weight loss or pregnancy.
7. Patients who are not satisfied with the results of a traditional tummy tuck
For those patients who are not entirely satisfied with the results of a traditional tummy tuck, an extended tummy tuck may be a viable option. This procedure, also known as a belt lipectomy, is a more extensive surgery than the traditional tummy tuck and involves resection of excess skin and fat from around the waist and lower back in order to provide a more contoured appearance. Patients who have undergone an extended tummy tuck have reported improved self-confidence and body image due to the improved shape and contour that this procedure can provide.
What Are the Risks Associated With an Extended Tummy Tuck?
There is always a risk of complications with any surgery, but the extended tummy tuck is particularly risky due to its extensive nature. These risks include infection, excessive bleeding, and blood clots. In addition, there is a chance that the surgery will not be successful, resulting in poor body contour and abdominal tone. Patients should discuss all potential risks and complications with their doctor before having the procedure done.
What Are the Risks of an Extended Tummy Tuck?
An extended tummy tuck, also known as an extended abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, as well as tightens the abdominal muscles. While this procedure can result in a more toned and contoured midsection, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with it. Possible complications of an extended tummy tuck can include infection, pain, numbness and scarring. Additionally, due to the invasive nature of the procedure, there is a risk of blood clots forming in the legs or lungs. Patients should always consult with their doctor to discuss any potential risks before undergoing an extended tummy tuck.
How Much Does an Extended Tuck Cost?
The cost of an extended tummy tuck will vary significantly depending on the extent of the procedure, the patient’s individual needs, the location and experience of the surgeon, and any additional treatments that are necessary. The exact cost will depend on the specifics of the procedure. Patients should always discuss the cost of the procedure with their doctor before undergoing an extended tummy tuck.
Is There Any Alternative to An Extended Tummy Tuck?
An extended tummy tuck is a surgical procedure used to remove excess fat and skin from the abdomen, as well as to repair weakened or separated abdominal muscles. While it is a highly effective procedure, many patients are looking for alternatives that are less invasive and require less recovery time. Fortunately, there are several options available that can provide similar results with less downtime. These include liposuction, body contouring, and non-surgical treatments. Each of these options has their own unique benefits and can help achieve an improved body shape without the need for an extended tummy tuck.
Conclusion
The extended tummy tuck procedure is a relatively safe and effective way to improve the appearance of the midsection. While there are some risks associated with any surgery, the extended tummy tuck has been proven to be a reliable way to achieve a flat, toned abdomen. Patients should always consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure that they have realistic expectations for the results of their extended tummy tuck procedure.
