What Type of Abdominoplasty Surgery is suitable for Me?

TYPES OF ABDOMINOPLASTY SURGICAL TECHNIQUES

Abdominoplasty, commonly referred to as a tummy tuck, is a Plastic Surgical procedure that aims to remove excess fat and skin from the abdominal area and will for a number of patients involve tightening the abdominal muscles. There are several types of abdominoplasty surgery, each specifically designed to address the individual concerns of the patient and will achieve different results unique for that patient. The choice of procedure depends on the patient’s individual needs and goals, as well as their surgeon’s recommendation. The most common types of abdominoplasty are as follows.

Full or Comprehensive Abdominoplasty:

This is the most common type of Abdominoplasty performed. However, there are several classifications of this of Abdominoplasty that will depend on the clinical findings when the patient is examined.

The Surgical Procedure involves making an incision from hip to hip just above the pubic area, allowing for significant fat and skin removal.

The Cosmetic Surgeon may also tighten the abdominal muscles during this procedure dependent on the classification of the patient. Some patients could require a new umbilicus to be surgically formed, as for some patients the old umbilicus could migrate to a lower position with removal of the excess skin and fat.

Most patients will require combined Liposuction to remove any excess or stubborn fat.

This procedure is suitable for patients with excess skin and fat in both the upper and lower abdomen.

Mini Abdominoplasty:

Also commonly referred to or known as a mini tummy tuck.

The procedure involves a shorter incision, usually located just above the pubic area, and often similar to a Caesarean scar.

This procedure primarily addresses the lower abdominal area, usually around the Pubic area, but not as far as the hip bones.

This is an ideal technique for individuals with minimal excess skin and fat limited to the lower abdomen. This is not a common type of Abdominoplasty.

Extended Abdominoplasty:

This procedure is similar to a full or comprehensive abdominoplasty but involves a longer incision that extends around the hips.

This procedure is suitable for individuals who have excess skin and fat on the sides (flanks) and back in addition to the abdominal area. However the Incision is not the same as that for a Circumferential Abdominoplasty.

Circumferential or Body Lift (Also known as Belt Lipectomy):

This procedure is part of a more extensive body contouring surgery. It typically follows massive weight loss, whereby the patient has hanging redundant tissues in a circumferential pattern.

Surgery involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, flanks, and back, creating a 360-degree improvement in body shape.

Patients considering this type of Abdominoplasty may require a Thigh lift to address redundant tissues and to contour the thighs and legs.

Fleur-de-Lis Abdominoplasty:

This type of Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) involves performing an additional vertical incision in the midline of the abdomen, creating a “T” or “anchor” shape.

This technique is appropriate for patients with a significant amounts of excess skin and tissues, often seen in massive weight loss patients presenting with redundant tissues cascading down from the upper to lower abdomen.

This technique is not common and requires considerable thought and post-operative recovery as risks and complications are amplified.

Reverse Abdominoplasty:

This procedure involves making an incision in the upper abdominal area, just below the breasts.

It is typically performed to address sagging skin in the upper abdomen.

This technique is often combined with a Full or Mini Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) to produce a much more comprehensive result and contour the torso.

Floating Abdominoplasty:

This Surgical technique is also known as a High Lateral Tension Abdominoplasty.

This technique primarily focuses on tightening the abdominal muscles and contouring the waist.

It can provide a more defined appearance to the midsection of the abdomen.

 

It’s important to note that the specific technique used in abdominoplasty surgery can vary from patient to patient.  The best approach for an individual will depend on their unique anatomy and cosmetic goals. Patients considering Abdominoplasty Plastic Surgery should consult with a Cosmetic Surgeon with specific training and experience such as Dr. Bobby Arun Kumar. During a thorough and comprehensive consultation it is possible to determine the most suitable procedure for that patient’s needs. It during the consultation the relative risks and complications is discussed dependant on the type or technique of Abdominoplasty performed.