An extended tummy tuck – sometimes also referred to as abdominoplasty with flankplasty – is a comprehensive cosmetic treatment that is designed to reshape the entire midsection. Plastic surgeons work to reduce excess fat and skin from the abdominal (as is the case with a full tummy tuck) but also target the love handles, flanks, and the area between the waist and hips. In some cases, excess skin in the thigh will also be removed. This treatment is meant for individuals who need an extensive amount of mid-section reshaping to address excesses of unwanted fat and loose hanging skin.
Ideal candidates for an extended abdominoplasty
An extended tummy tuck is an intensive cosmetic treatment for men and women who are looking to go beyond the reach of a regular tummy tuck. In addition to removing unwanted fat and skin from the abdominal area, this treatment also targets the flanks, love handles, and sometimes even the thighs. You may be an ideal candidate for a comprehensive tummy tuck if:
- You are in good general health.
- You are within 20 pounds of your target weight.
- You are completely free of nicotine-based products.
- You have realistic expectations about the outcome of this treatment.
Extended tummy tucks are very common with individuals who have experienced massive weight loss (i.e. people who were previously obese). During your initial consultation visit with a plastic surgeon of your choice, your midsection will be examined and the surgeon will ask questions to learn more about your aesthetic concerns. It is not uncommon for the surgeon to recommend that you have a different type of tummy tuck if they think you are an extended tummy tuck is not for you.
Extended tummy tuck procedure
Extended abdominoplasty is an outpatient procedure that is typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure is performed in Dr. Ruston’s in-office operating room or an accredited medical facility in Louisiana. The surgeon will create an extensive horizontal incision below the bikini line that also touches the bottom of the love handles area. This incision will then be used to remove excess skin and tighten weakened abdominal muscles. The surgeon will also recontour the love handles and flank area to achieve the desired outcome. A new opening is created for the navel. The surgery takes about 2-4 hours to complete. Once the treatment is completed, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room before you are allowed to go home. Some patients may be required to stay overnight in a hospital for close monitoring by the surgeon’s team.
Recovery after an extended abdominoplasty
Recovery after this type of tummy tuck is more demanding compared to recovering from a full abdominoplasty or mini tummy tuck. Your skin will be pulled tight, which may affect your posture. You will need to walk while slightly bent over for about a week or so. Most patients experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. These are normal side effects that are typically resolved via medication. You will be asked to take it easy over the first week or so post-surgery. For this reason, it is important that you have someone to help out with basic chores. Make a point to take light walks around the house or compound as soon as you are able to after surgery in order to promote blood flow (and lower the risk of blood clots forming). Drains may be inserted to remove excess fluid from the treatment area. These should stay in place for 1-2 weeks before they are removed during a follow-up visit to the surgeon’s office. You may need as many as 3 weeks before you are able to return to the office. Full recovery may take as much as 8 weeks. However, once the difficult part is done, the results of an extended tummy tuck usually last for years (as long as you maintain a stable weight).
How much does an extended tummy tuck cost?
The cost of abdominoplasty is usually informed by the type of procedure selected, the extent of treatment, the surgeon’s skills, and other mitigating factors. When it comes to extended abdominoplasty in Baton Rouge LA, patients can expect to pay between $8,000 and $20,000 for the treatment. Dr. Ruston’s office will be able to provide a more customized cost breakdown following your consultation visit.
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