About
- An extended abdominoplasty is similar to a tummy tuck, but the procedure also targets fat in the ribs and lower back.
- The incision is wrapped from the low pelvis to the lower back.
Security
- Abdominal stretches are generally considered safe. As with all surgical procedures, there are risks.
- Risks include swelling, fluid retention, reaction to anesthesia, and numbness after surgery.
Ease
- Tummy tucks are an inpatient procedure where patients are put under anesthesia.
- If the procedure is elective, as most are, it will not be covered by insurance.
- It’s important to find a trained, board-certified plastic surgeon whose work you trust.
Cost
- The cost of a tummy tuck varies greatly depending on where you live, the procedure itself and the size of the area.
- It will usually fall between $4,000 and $18,000.
Effectiveness
- Extended tummy tucks are very effective with studies reporting that the majority of those who choose to have this procedure are satisfied with the results.
An extended tummy tuck is very similar to a regular tummy tuck—sometimes called a tummy tuck—but instead of just reducing excess skin and fat in the stomach, it also targets the rib area, or love handles, between the waist and hips. In some cases, an extended abdominoplasty will also target excess skin on the side thigh.
Ideal candidates for an extended tummy tuck include people who have lost a lot of weight and have excess skin, as well as those who want to slim down the appearance of their stomach and flanks.
The cost of a tummy tuck will vary depending on the surgeon, the amount of fat and the size of the area. The price range for a tummy tuck generally falls between $4,000 and $18,000.
In 2019, the average cost of a tummy tuck (without extension) was $6,092 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Because extended abdominoplasty involves more, the cost will likely be higher. Additionally, this cost is for the procedure only and does not take into account anesthesia, operating room facilities or other related costs.
Because tummy tucks are usually done for cosmetic reasons only, the procedure will not be covered by insurance. In some cases, abdominoplasty can relieve back pain and incontinence. You will also likely need to take several days off work to recover.
Abdominal stretches work by removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen and repairing any loose or torn muscles. Through an incision above the pubic hairline that wraps around the lower back, skin and fat are removed from the stomach and flank area. The skin is stretched flat and the navel is reattached, giving the skin a smoother, flatter appearance.
In 2012
- During an extended tummy tuck, the surgeon will usually make an incision between your hip bones, low in the pubic area. If you have a tummy tuck after a c-section, they may reopen the same scar.
- Any muscles that have been separated, such as from pregnancy, will be stitched together so they appear stretched. Full abs can correct a rectus abdominis, which is a breakdown of the abdominal muscles.
- The belly button will be cut and liposuction may be performed if there is excess fat.
- Excess skin is removed from the abdomen and flank area and the skin will be stretched.
- Finally, the belly button is sutured back to its original position, unless you and your surgeon decide to change its shape.
Extended crunches target the upper and lower stomach, waist, ribs and sometimes the upper side of the thigh.
As with all surgical procedures, there are some risks and side effects associated with extended abdominoplasty. One study found that
- numbness after surgery, which is typically temporary;
- excess fluid or blood that accumulates in the abdomen
- swelling and redness
- puncture of internal organs — although rare, could be caused by the cannula (a tube that removes excess fluid from the body) penetrating too deeply and potentially puncturing an organ
Your surgeon or nurse should let you know what to expect after surgery, including:
- which activities should be avoided and for how long
- if and when you can consume alcohol and certain medicines or supplements
- how long to wear the compression garment
- how to manage drainage tubes if your surgeon uses them;
- when to schedule a follow-up appointment
You will be able to see some results immediately, although your abdominal area will be swollen and sticky. In the first few weeks, you will probably be advised to rest at an angle and avoid vigorous activity or heavy lifting.
Around the 2 to 3 month mark, most of the swelling will likely have gone down, although you may still see some scarring, which should lighten over time. After 6 months to a year, you will see the full results, which should be permanent unless you gain weight quickly or become pregnant.
It’s helpful to see photos of people who have had extensive tummy tucks when deciding whether the procedure is right for you. Check out the before and after photos below:
Before your abdominoplasty, you will probably need to have a blood group taken to make sure you are in good health. You’ll also want to meet with your surgeon to discuss what to expect. You will also need to arrange a ride home.
You may also be told to:
- stop smoking
- limit alcohol
- stop taking anti-inflammatory drugs (such as aspirin) and certain herbal supplements, which could potentially make bleeding worse or prevent proper clotting
An extended tummy tuck and a traditional tummy tuck are very similar procedures. The main difference is that an extended abdominoplasty targets the ribs, also known as love handles, between the waist and hips. Because of the additional procedure, an extended abdominoplasty is often more expensive, takes longer to complete, and may require longer recovery time after surgery.
An extensive abdominoplasty should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. You can use the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ Find a surgeon’s tool tool to find a list of board certified plastic surgeons near you.
