What Is A Reverse Tummy Tuck?

For those considering plastic surgery the traditional tummy tuck is often an option that is considered. This procedure is done on an almost daily basis and patients are thrilled with the results.

A traditional tummy tuck involves making an incision across the abdomen and then a smaller incision is made by the navel. These incisions are made in order for the surgeon to be able to remove fat and repair the abdomen walls making them stronger and helping to contour the belly. Then, the surgeon will remove any excess skin and the incisions are closed. This procedure works well for patients with areas of fat in their stomachs.

Another procedure that can be used to contour the stomach is a mini tummy tuck. This procedure involves the use of an incision above the pubis that is used to remove fat and repair the muscles in the lower region of the abdomen. The skin is stretched and the belly button is removed and then replaced once the skin has been stretched. This is a great procedure to be done to patients that are close or at their ideal weight and that may be in better physical shape but still bothered by a protruding stomach.

Another option that is not as common is a reverse tummy tuck.

How A Reverse Tummy Tuck Works

A reverse tummy tuck is not common and many surgeons do not even perform this procedure. A reverse tummy tuck involves the upper region of the abdomen and may be combined with a breast lift or breast reduction. A reverse tummy tuck is performed on people with fat deposits in their upper abdomen.

During a reverse tummy tuck an incision is made at the base of the ribs below the breasts. The incision is made in the form of a "v" and the surgeon the removes fat from the area. The incision is closed and excessive skin is removed. The reverse tummy tuck does make the waist smaller.

Some benefits with the reverse tummy tuck include the recovery time. With a traditional tummy tuck it may take months for the patient to see the permanent outcome of the surgery. It also can take up to three weeks before a patient can return to work.

A mini tummy tuck takes less time to recover from, maybe several weeks but it can take some months for the swelling to go down from the surgery. With a reverse tummy tuck the patient is often discharged from the hospital in an outpatient basis, and the restrictions include not being able to reach up or carry weight for several weeks but then they are good.

Only specific patients need this type of procedure and again it is not common so it may be harder to find a surgeon that performs this surgery.