How Does a Reverse Tummy Tuck Differ From a Tummy Tuck?5 min read
Phillip Chang
The world of plastic surgery can get pretty overwhelming, and with all the procedures in the industry and the development of new technologies, it can get quite confusing. One of the most common plastic surgery procedures is the tummy tuck, formally known as abdominoplasty. Trying to get rid of the stubborn fat and excess skin around the stomach can get frustrating, which is why patients look to abdominoplasty as one of the more effective solutions.
What's a Reverse Tummy Tuck?
With the existence of abdominoplasty came the birth of a procedure called the reverse tummy tuck. A reverse tummy tuck targets the excess skin on your upper abdomen and tightens the abdominal wall. A reverse tummy tuck can also help raise a low breast, enhance the overall breast position, and improve the length and aesthetic of both the breast and the abdomen, creating a better appearance.
The approach used in this surgical procedure begins with incisions that follow the lower breast fold and go across the abdomen. Usually, the scars fall below the breasts to hide the incision. This approach can be paired with the appropriate breast augmentation procedure to supplement the reverse abdominoplasty.
Will There Be Any Reverse Tummy Tuck Scars?
Reverse tummy tuck scars are minimal as the incision is made underneath the breasts, leaving the scars hidden under the breast crease. These scars are generally concealed, even while wearing a bikini!
Who is the Ideal Reverse Tummy Tuck Candidate?
Ideally, candidates who decide to get a reverse tummy tuck should be healthy, non-smokers, and informed of what the procedure entails while having realistic expectations of the final results. It’s also best for women who plan on getting pregnant to discuss this during their initial consultation since pregnancy can affect the abdominal area where the reverse tummy tuck is performed. It is ideal for women to have the procedure after their last pregnancy for optimal results.
Another thing to consider is your weight. It is recommended that patients be within the normal weight limit since weight fluctuations can compromise multiple factors in the procedure’s outcome: longevity of the reverse abdominoplasty, overall aesthetic, and how tight and sculpted the stomach will look in the long run.
What Other Procedures Can be Paired with a Reverse Tummy Tuck?
Multiple procedures you can pair with a reverse tummy tuck since the incision is done directly underneath the breast area. Breast augmentation is one procedure that can be done alongside a reverse abdominoplasty. Using the same incision, augmentation surgery allows implants to be inserted into your breasts. If you have had breast augmentation done in the past and noticed your breasts are “drooping,” it is possible to use the excess skin from a reverse tummy tuck as a skin graft to reposition and hold up the breast implant.
If you had a tummy tuck before and the lower abdomen area has remained intact, but because of weight fluctuations or aging, you noticed the upper portion of the torso has significantly changed, a reverse tummy tuck is a great option! This procedure allows the skin to be tightened around the rib area and underneath the breasts, enhancing the abdominal or torso region simultaneously.
Another common issue in women is stubborn excess skin on the bra line. An upper back lift can help improve the appearance of a tight bra line by using liposuction and skin tightening techniques that address the upper back area alongside a reverse tummy tuck, giving an overall streamlined appearance on the entire upper body.
Reverse Tummy Tuck vs. Tummy Tuck: What are the Differences?
Tummy tucks are one of the most popular procedures performed in the industry. Mostly targeted toward women who experience excess skin and stretch marks in the abdomen after pregnancy, tummy tucks are a great way to address body contouring issues. By identifying the differences between a tummy tuck and a reverse tummy tuck, you can decide which procedure is best for you.
A tummy tuck aims to tighten and contour loose skin and weakened abdominal muscles located in the middle and lower abdominal areas. The incision is made under the belly button.
A reverse tummy tuck, on the other hand, targets loose skin on the upper abdomen. The difference in the incision is that, unlike the traditional tummy tuck, the incision is made below the breast folds, where fatty tissue or excess skin is removed. Reverse abdominoplasty exclusively addresses the upper abdomen and does not involve the lower abdomen or the muscles in the stomach’s lower quadrant. This procedure aims to eliminate excess or loose skin and helps emphasize, smoothen, and define the upper torso for a more streamlined appearance.
What Will My Results Look Like?
After getting a reverse tummy tuck, the abdomen’s appearance will be rendered smoother and tighter! It is expected to see the full benefits of this procedure a few months later, when the swelling has already subsided. The incision will result in a thin horizontal scar, which will remain after the reverse abdominoplasty. But with Dr. Chang’s expertise, the incision will be well hidden underneath the breast crease!
What is the Average Reverse Tummy Tuck Cost?
The average cost for a reverse tummy tuck procedure starts at $7000. At Aesthetica, we guarantee the best results while providing quality service backed by a team of professionals!
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Chang for Your Very Own Reverse Tummy Tuck!
Ready to undergo your very own reverse tummy tuck procedure? Come meet with us at Aesthetica Cosmetic Surgery and Laser Center for a complimentary consultation before moving forward with surgery! Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Dr. Phillip Chang will determine if you are a good candidate for these procedures. If everything is all good and ready, our team of proactive professionals will assist you in navigating the next steps, from beginning to the end! For more information about any of your concerns regarding abdominoplasties, check out our blog for more information!
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