Procedure at a Glance

Procedure Time

2-4 hours

Treatments

1

Results

Enhanced upper abdominal contour, full results in 6-12 months

Recovery Time

2-4 weeks
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Sanctuary Plastic Surgery

What is a reverse tummy tuck?

A reverse tummy tuck targets the stomach region above the navel, removing excess skin, tissue, and fat for a more toned appearance. Loose skin often appears in the upper belly as a result of pregnancy, massive weight loss, or the aging process. Despite a healthy diet and exercise regimen, it can be very difficult to sculpt this area of the physique on one’s own.

A reverse tummy tuck in Boca Raton & West Palm Beach, FL, can restore a slim, youthful figure, leading to a more positive self-image and enhanced peace of mind for most patients. With the reverse tummy tuck, the incision can be made at the base of the breastbone, making it highly convenient to perform breast surgery in tandem with abdominoplasty. 

What are the goals of a reverse tummy tuck?

  • Eradicates sagging, loose skin in the upper belly
  • Trims excess fat
  • Improves contour definition above the navel
  • Reshapes the torso after pregnancy, aging, or significant weight loss
  • Creates a more youthful, attractive silhouette
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Combining a reverse tummy tuck with breast surgery

For patients seeking to dramatically contour both the upper and lower body at the same time, a reverse tummy tuck can be paired with a breast lift or breast reduction procedure. The same incision along the lower portion of the breastbone can be used for both surgeries. Combining procedures allows patients to enjoy a shorter overall recovery time, lower costs, and a more rewarding, rejuvenating cosmetic result

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Who is an ideal candidate for a reverse tummy tuck?

For patients who have encountered a significant amount of sagging skin in the upper abdomen after rapid or massive weight loss, a reverse tummy tuck can produce an elegant transformation. Women who have been pregnant and who have noticed unwanted changes in their upper belly may seek out a reverse tummy tuck to firm and lift the upper stomach region. Additionally, patients struggling with drooping contours, skin laxity, and the accumulation of stubborn fat due to the natural aging process will find an excellent solution in the reverse tummy tuck. 

In general, ideal candidates for surgery are healthy non-smoking individuals who are not currently struggling with any uncontrolled medical concerns. They should be at a stable weight and have realistic expectations for their results.

Our surgeons will conduct a detailed, personalized consultation process to ensure that a reverse tummy tuck is the best – and safest – choice.

Conventional tummy tuck surgery vs. a reverse tummy tuck

Both traditional abdominoplasty and a reverse tummy tuck aim to contour the midsection and create a more youthful, chiseled presentation. However, there are some key differences between the two procedures. A conventional tummy tuck targets skin, tissue, and fat in the lower belly, while a reverse tummy tuck focuses on reshaping the upper portion of the stomach above the navel. The incision with traditional abdominoplasty is made across the lower abdomen, with scarring hidden by the bikini line. With a reverse tummy tuck, the incision is created at the base of the breastbone. While both procedures can restore firmness to the muscles, a reverse tummy tuck is generally more concerned with removing excess sagging skin than muscle tightening. Both a conventional tummy tuck and a reverse tummy tuck can be performed as part of a comprehensive mommy makeover.

What are the benefits of a reverse tummy tuck?

A reverse tummy tuck offers a range of potential benefits, including:

  • Rejuvenates and sculpts the upper belly
  • Removes excess sagging skin and tissue
  • Trims unwanted fat bulges (via liposuction)
  • Enhances core strength and posture
  • Creates a flatter, smoother stomach
  • Expands clothing options
  • Boosts self-esteem and self-confidence
  • Long-lasting changes
  • Can be combined with other aesthetic procedures

What can I expect from the procedure?

A reverse tummy tuck in Boca Raton & West Palm Beach, FL, is performed through several important steps:

Consultation

Before undergoing surgery, you will need to attend an in-depth consultation with our surgeons. This will involve a physical evaluation, a thorough review of your medical history, and a frank discussion of your goals and concerns. You will get to see before and after photos of former patients, allowing you to form realistic expectations for your results.

Preparation for surgery

Our surgeons may ask for preoperative medical testing to be completed. Once your surgery is scheduled, our surgeons will inform you of any guidelines you will need to follow. Certain medications may need to be paused, and you will need to schedule a friend, family member, or helper to drive you home and assist you for the first 24-48 hours of your recovery.

Anesthesia

On the day of your surgery, you will receive general anesthesia to ensure you are asleep and perfectly comfortable during the procedure.

Incision

As a first step, our surgeons will create an incision along the breast crease. They will then carefully trim excess skin and tissue, streamlining the upper abdomen region. 

Liposuction

In some cases, our surgeons will include liposuction as part of the reverse tummy tuck procedure in order to remove pockets of stubborn, exercise-resistant fat. 

Incision closure

Once all changes are complete, our surgeons will close the incision with fine sutures and place the patient in the recovery suite for observation until they are cleared to go home.

What will my recovery entail after a reverse tummy tuck?

After your reverse tummy tuck, you will need ample time to rest and heal. Our surgeons will outfit you with a compression garment, which should be worn throughout the recovery process to help reduce swelling and keep your newly sculpted abdomen in pristine form. Soreness, bruising, and swelling are normal reactions to abdominal surgery. Our surgeons will make sure you are comfortable with prescription pain medications and will provide a detailed aftercare plan customized to your body. 

While you will need to avoid strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks, you can begin taking gentle walks right away, which can encourage healthy circulation and reduce the risk of certain complications like blood clotting.

Our surgeons will be on hand continuously during your recovery to answer any questions or concerns as they arise.

Reverse Tummy Tuck FAQs

How long does a reverse tummy tuck take?

The procedure can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to complete. If the patient is undergoing breast surgery or a mommy makeover in tandem with a reverse tummy tuck, this will naturally lengthen the procedure time.

Are there any potential complications with a reverse tummy tuck?

Choosing a board-certified, experienced surgeon such as our surgeons is an excellent way to reduce your potential risks. However, every surgery comes with inherent risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring, and numbness. Our surgeons will discuss possible complications with you in more depth during your private consultation.

When can I go back to work after a reverse tummy tuck?

It usually takes patients a few weeks to feel well enough to resume work. If the patient’s job is physically taxing, they may have to wait longer. This is a topic that can be discussed in more detail with our surgeons during your private consultation in Boca Raton, FL.

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