Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck, or extended abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen below the belly button and is combined with tightening of the underlying tummy muscles that have become stretched or torn over time (usually from pregnancy). It is a more extensive procedure than a standard tummy tuck as excess skin and fat are also removed from around the flanks and lower back, resulting in a longer scar. It is particularly beneficial for those who have experienced significant weight loss which has led to large amounts of excess skin around the flanks.

Procedure Overview

This procedure is suitable for individuals with larger than normal amounts of excess abdominal skin, loose abdominal muscles, or stubborn fat that extends beyond the tummy area and is located around the flanks, and often the lower back area. It is popular among patients who have undergone pregnancy or massive weight loss.

Northwood Hospital - Extended Tummy Tuck

Aim

The surgery aims to achieve a flatter, firmer abdominal profile by removing excess skin and fat and is usually combined with tightening of the abdominal muscles. It may also be combined with liposuction.

Limitations

An extended tummy tuck is not a way to lose weight. To achieve the best results from this treatment it is important to be at your target weight before surgery, and maintain this weight after surgery. Significant weight gain after having a tummy tuck will eliminate the gains made by having the procedure, so it is vitally important to maintain your goal weight post surgery by following a healthy lifestyle. Although some “stretch marks” will be removed as part of the surgery, the procedure may not remove all of them.

Types of Tummy Tuck

If you research tummy tuck on the internet, there is a huge amount of information to process, and sometimes it is difficult to decide what type of procedure you might need. This section outlines an extended tummy tuck procedure but if you have had massive weight loss your surgeon may suggest a a “fleur de Lis” tummy tuck. If you are a suitable candidate for a standard or a mini tummy tuck rather than an extended version this will be discussed with you at your consultation. These are outlined separately.

At A Glance

Tailored to each patient, this procedure offers transformative results for improved confidence.

Expected results:

Flatter, firmer, more sculpted abdomen

Treatment time:

2–3 hours

Anaesthesia:

General anaesthetic

Recovery time:

6 weeks general recovery / 12 weeks to return to full activity

Return to work:

3 weeks (for sedentary roles), may be longer if in a more active role

Lifetime of procedure:

Long-lasting with stable weight

In patient stay:

Overnight stay

Northwood Hospital - Extended Tummy Tuck The Procedure

CONSULTATION

During the consultation, your chosen surgeon will take a detailed medical history and discuss your concerns, goals, and expectations. They will examine your abdominal area to assess the amount of excess skin, fat, and muscle separation, and will explain the different types of tummy tuck available, such as full, mini, or extended procedures. Photographs may be taken to assist with planning. You will receive information about the surgical process, potential risks, recovery expectations, and any alternative options. This is also your opportunity to ask questions and address any concerns, so that you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

Each procedure is tailored to the individual client. Every person is different in their wants and needs, so it is important to us to listen to you carefully.

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PRE OP PREPARATION

Setting aside time to focus on preparation before you attend for surgery is important if you wish a successful outcome. Healthy eating (avoiding refined sugars, and ultra processed foods), reducing alcohol consumption and stopping smoking, vaping or taking recreational drugs is extremely important in the 6 weeks running up to surgery. In addition it is also important to train the relevant muscles so that they are fully primed for the recovery phase. Working on core strength so that all the abdominal muscles are as strong as possible will help your body cope with the surgical makeover. Regular respiratory deep breathing techniques such as breath exercises used with yoga or diving are important when having a general anaesthetic as there will be less chance of developing breathing problems in the recovery phase.

SURGERY

An extended tummy tuck is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes an incision along the lower abdomen, usually positioned so it can be hidden by underwear or swimwear. The incision extends beyond the tummy area and can wrap around to the lower back. Excess skin and fat are removed, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and the remaining skin is repositioned for a smoother contour. Usually the belly button will be repositioned to create a natural appearance. The incisions are then closed with dissolvable stitches. Dressings and a supportive garment are applied.

Occasionally your surgeon may need to place some surgical drains beneath your skin to aid the healing process. These are usually removed in the days after surgery, and this process is very straightforward.

RECOVERY

You will usually stay in hospital for one to two nights after surgery. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal in the first days, and pain medication will be provided. You will need to wear a supportive garment for several weeks to aid healing and reduce swelling. This will be fitted for you during the surgery. The first 2 weeks following surgery it is recommended that you have help and support with even simple daily activities, as you will need this time to allow the body to heal. Most patients can return to work and light activities within three to four weeks, but serious heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for up to 12 weeks. Regular follow-up appointments will be arranged to monitor your healing and ensure the best possible outcome.

It will usually take up to 6 months for the residual swelling and scarring to settle, and this is when the final outcome will best be determined.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is extended tummy tuck surgery safe?

Yes. When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, tummy tuck surgery is safe and effective. As with all surgeries, there are risks such as infection, bleeding, fluid accumulation, wound healing problems and scarring. These will be discussed in detail during your consultation.

Will there be a scar?

Yes. The scar is usually placed low enough to be hidden beneath underwear or swimwear, but the scar will extend into the lower back and flank areas so may be more visible than in a standard tummy tuck. Over time, the scar typically fades significantly, but it can take up to 18 months for it to fade. Not all stretch marks will be removed during the surgery.

Will the results be permanent?

Yes. The results are long-lasting, but only if you maintain a stable weight. Significant weight gain or pregnancy after surgery can alter results.

Will I lose weight from a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck is not a weight loss procedure, but it can result in a more defined silhouette and the removal of several pounds of excess skin and fat.

How painful is the recovery?

Most patients experience moderate discomfort in the first week, which can be managed with pain medication. Discomfort decreases substantially after the first 7–10 days. This is significant surgery and it is essential to use the 2 weeks following surgery to fully rest and recover without any work, childcare or household commitments.