A traditional tummy tuck focuses on the lower abdomen, but a reverse tummy tuck targets the loose skin above your belly button. It’s a great option if you’re happy with your lower abdomen but want to smooth and tighten the upper part instead.
What is A Reverse Tummy Tuck?
A reverse tummy tuck, also referred to as “reverse abdominoplasty,” is a specialized surgical procedure primarily aimed at removing excess skin from the upper abdomen, usually located just below the breasts.
Although it is less commonly performed than the traditional tummy tuck, this procedure is often preferred by patients who have undergone significant weight loss or experienced changes after pregnancy.
Can You Reverse A Tummy Tuck?
Yes. This procedure is known as reverse tummy tuck, and much like other surgical procedures, reverse tummy tuck should also only be performed by board-certified plastic surgeons who know it like the back of their hands.
Dr. Jaime Haidenberg and Dr. Natan Yaker specialize in body contouring, including reverse tummy tucks. With expert surgical techniques, they ensure safe, natural-looking results. If you’re considering a reverse tummy tuck, BOOK A CONSULTATION to see if it’s right for you.
How is Reverse Tummy Tuck Done?
This is how reverse tummy tuck is done at Plano Plastic Surgery:
- An incision is made in the fold beneath the breasts. This placement ensures the resulting scar is hidden, even when wearing low-cut tops.
- After the incision, the surgeon carefully removes the excess skin from the upper abdomen, tightening the area to create a flat and contoured appearance.
- In certain cases, this procedure can be combined with other body contouring surgeries such as breast augmentation or breast lift to enhance overall appearance post-op.
- Finally, the incision is closed with sutures using dissolvable stitches, and the area is properly dressed.
Reverse Tummy Tuck Scar
Most patients are particularly concerned about the scarring following a reverse tummy tuck procedure, among other potential side effects. Since an incision is made during the procedure, scarring is inevitable. However, considering its placement along the fold of the skin, it keeps the scar undetectable. With right surgical techniques and proper care, the scar may significantly fade over time, although it won’t disappear entirely.
Reverse Tummy Tuck Side Effects
After a reverse tummy tuck, patients also often experience the following side effects. These are normal after undergoing a surgical procedure and will subside after a few days.
- Numbness or altered sensation: Patients will experience temporary numbness or changes in skin sensation around the surgical site. This usually resolves over weeks or months until nerves regenerate.
- Discomfort and pain: Mild to moderate pain is common after the procedure. A pain medication will likely be provided by your surgeon.
- Swelling and bruising: It’s normal for patients to experience pain and bruising after the procedure. Patients may be advised to wear a compression garment to help reduce the swelling and support the healing tissues.
Reverse Tummy Tuck Recovery
Recovery from a reverse tummy tuck is similar to other abdominal surgeries. Expect swelling, bruising, and tightness in the upper abdomen for the first 1–2 weeks. Most patients can return to light activities in 7–10 days, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.
A compression garment may be required to reduce swelling and support healing. Pain is manageable with medication, and any discomfort improves as the weeks go by. Full results become more visible as swelling subsides over the next few months. Your surgeon will provide personalized recovery guidelines to ensure the best outcome.
How Much is a Reverse Tummy Tuck?
Just like other surgical procedures, the cost of reverse tummy tuck depends on the surgeon’s experience, location, how much skin needs to be excised, and additional procedures (if there are any).
Schedule a consultation with one of our professionals at Plano Plastic Surgery for a more detailed breakdown of cost including possible payment options.
Reverse Tummy Tuck at Plano Plastic Surgery
At Plano Plastic Surgery, excellence is our standard. Dr. Haidenberg, with his 16 years of experience in cosmetic surgery, and Dr. Yaker, who dedicated years to perfecting aesthetic surgeries, are the driving force behind Plano Plastic Surgery’s success.
We offer various cosmetic surgical procedures including reverse tummy tuck. Here are our reverse tummy tuck before and after photos to help you decide if we’re the right clinic for you.
Get into your best shape yet with a reverse tummy tuck! Give us a call and schedule a consultation at Plano Plastic Surgery. We serve patients in Plano, TX, and surrounding areas, including Dallas, Richardson, Allen, Garland, and Arlington.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a reverse tummy tuck reverse diabetes?
No. A reverse tummy tuck is a cosmetic procedure and is not a diabetes treatment. However, many patients who undergo tummy tuck have already done significant work on losing weight and living a better lifestyle which can improve the condition of a patient’s Type II diabetes.
Am I a good candidate for reverse tummy tuck?
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have loose, excess skin in the upper abdomen
- Experienced significant weight loss, leading to sagging skin above the belly button
- Developed skin laxity post-pregnancy
- Are in good overall health and a non-smoker (or willing to quit)
- Have realistic expectations about the results
Can I combine other procedures with a reverse tummy tuck?
Yes. You can combine reverse tummy tuck with other procedures like liposuction for more excellent results and a more sculpted look.
Can I get pregnant after a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck has no impact on your fertility. Any tummy tuck procedure doesn’t prevent you from getting pregnant or even make it more difficult. Most doctors recommend getting a tummy tuck if you’re sure that you don’t want to have children again to maintain your results.
