FDL Tummy Tuck

Fleur De Lis Abdominoplasty

The Fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty or FDL tummy tuck is a more extensive procedure for those patients who have had massive weight loss and who are dealing with significant loose drooping skin above and below the belly button in both horizontal and vertical planes. This type of surgery is advantageous to some people as it allows for the removal of skin vertically as well as in the usual horizontal plane with a standard tummy tuck, so there is the chance to narrow the waistline, and contour the skin in a more contoured manner.

Procedure Overview

This procedure is suitable for individuals with larger than normal amounts of excess abdominal skin, loose abdominal muscles, or stubborn fat. It is useful among patients who have undergone massive weight loss with extensive skin redundancy that cannot be addressed by the more traditional methods.

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. The surgery involves both a horizontal and a vertical scar (like an upside down capital T).

Limitations

A fleur-de-lis tummy tuck is not a way to lose weight, but is an excellent way to remove large amounts of excess skin. 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 a fleur de lis tummy tuck procedure but if you have had weight loss with less redundant skin your surgeon may suggest an extended 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:

2–4 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 active employment

Lifetime of procedure:

Long-lasting with stable weight

In patient stay:

Overnight stay

Northwood Hospital FDL 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 that will be suitable for you, such as full, extended or fleur de lis 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.

Book a consultation

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

A 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. A second midline vertical incision is also made from below the ribs to meet the first incision at the knicker line. Excess skin and fat are removed, the abdominal muscles are tightened, and the remaining skin is repositioned for a smoother contour. 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 fleur de lis 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 more extensive than a standard tummy tuck as there is a vertical midline scar that is visible if wearing just underwear. The second scar is placed low enough to be hidden beneath underwear or swimwear. Over time, both scars 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.