What’s The Difference Between A Reverse Tummy Tuck And Normal Tummy Tuck?

Year after year, one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed across the country is the tummy tuck. With its ability to remove excess skin, sculpt a tighter abdomen, and truly transform a patient's physique, it is easy to see why the tummy tuck continues to be sought out by men and women everywhere. A lesser-known – though equally beneficial – procedure that is also used to address concerns about the midsection is the reverse tummy tuck.

The knowledgeable and experienced team of plastic surgeons at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery, is dedicated to helping Northern Virginia patients achieve their ultimate aesthetic goals through the most innovative, effective, and exciting procedures available, including the reverse tummy tuck. Read on to learn more about reverse tummy tuck surgery, and find out how it may help you get the body you've always wanted!

What is a reverse tummy tuck?

Unlike a traditional tummy tuck, which involves removing excess skin from the lower abdomen, the reverse tummy tuck is designed to address concerns on the upper abdomen. During reverse tummy tuck surgery, formally known as reverse abdominoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision in the inframammary crease. This allows excess skin to be pulled upward and removed. The remaining skin is then pulled tight and secured with sutures just underneath the breasts, resulting in a smoother, tighter, more contoured midsection.

How is a reverse tummy tuck different than a regular tummy tuck?

While both types of tummy tucks are used for excess skin removal, the primary differences between reverse abdominoplasty and normal abdominoplasty lie in the placement of the incision and the targeted treatment area. Patients with concerns about excess skin on the lower abdomen will likely benefit most from traditional tummy tuck surgery, while patients who have loose skin or fat above their belly button are often better-suited to reverse tummy tuck.

In a regular tummy tuck, the incision is placed on the lower abdomen, while a reverse tummy tuck involves an incision on the upper abdomen in the inframammary crease. Many patients enjoy the fact that a reverse tummy tuck scar is camouflaged within the natural creases of the body, though a lower tummy tuck scar can typically be concealed with clothing and swimsuits.

Using either a regular or a reverse tummy tuck approach, the surgeon can also remove stubborn pockets of fat using liposuction, though a normal tummy tuck may be more appropriate for patients with diastasis recti, or separated abdominal muscles, that are causing a pooch or pouch-like appearance on the lower abdomen.

During your initial consultation at Austin-Weston, one of our exceptional plastic surgeons will thoroughly examine your areas of concern, discuss your specific goals, and answer all of your questions in detail to help determine which procedure or combination of procedures may be right for you. In many cases, women choose to pair their tummy tuck with breast augmentation or breast lift as part of a larger mommy makeover procedure, while after weight loss patients may combine tummy tuck with additional skin removal procedures, such as arm lift or thigh lift, for a more dramatic transformation.

How long does a tummy tuck last?

Whether someone undergoes a traditional tummy tuck or a reverse tummy tuck, the results can be enjoyed for many, many years, depending on the patient's lifestyle and other factors. It is strongly recommended that women wait until they are done having children to have tummy tuck surgery, as future pregnancies can severely compromise the results of a tummy tuck. Weight fluctuations can also impact tummy tuck results, so patients should commit to maintaining a healthy, stable weight in order to preserve their results for as long as possible.

Who needs a reverse tummy tuck?

Patients who are struggling with excess skin and fat on their upper abdomen due to pregnancy, weight loss, or aging can typically benefit from a reverse tummy tuck. In some cases, reverse tummy tuck surgery is also helpful for patients who have previously undergone a normal tummy tuck but are unsatisfied with their overall results. Ideal candidates for reverse tummy tuck in Northern Virginia should be:

• In good health
• At a stable, healthy weight
• Nonsmoker
• Have excess skin and fat on their upper abdomen
• Not pregnant or planning to become pregnant
• Desire long-lasting, gorgeous results

If you are tired of feeling uncomfortable in your own skin and want to make a stunning change to your physique, reverse tummy tuck may be right for you. Call the friendly team at Austin-Weston, The Center for Cosmetic Surgery in Reston, VA to schedule your consultation with one of our renowned plastic surgeons, or enjoy an online consultation from the privacy and comfort of your own home. We look forward to helping you learn more about how reverse tummy tuck can be used to restore the body you once had – or get the body you've always dreamed of!