An Overview of the Extended Tummy Tuck Technique By Anya Kishinevsky, M.D. on December 14, 2016

Many patients have goals of achieving tighter and more toned abdomens when they choose to undergo tummy tuck surgery with Dr. Anya Kishinevsky. For some patients, particularly those who have lost significant amounts of weight, a standard tummy tuck procedure is insufficient. In these cases, Dr. Kishinevsky can recommend the extended tummy tuck technique during a consultation at our Fairfield, CT office. This procedure can eliminate greater amounts of excess skin than the standard tummy tuck.

Standard Tummy Tuck

The standard, or full, tummy tuck creates a horizontal incision that typically extends from one hip to the other. Another incision is created around the navel for repositioning after excess skin has been removed. In most cases, Dr. Kishinevsky can place the horizontal incision fairly low, so that it remains covered by undergarments.

Extended Tummy Tuck

The extended tummy tuck technique also creates a horizontal incision below the navel. This incision, however, extends beyond the hips to wrap around the sides and lower back. While portions of the incision may be easily hidden with undergarments or pants, patients may find it difficult to conceal the incision entirely. As with the standard tummy tuck, the extended technique also requires an incision around the navel for repositioning.

Who Should Consider an Extended Tummy Tuck?

Typically, Dr. Kishinevsky reserves the extended tummy tuck technique for patients who have lost substantial weight. These patients often have loose, excess skin that hangs from the abdomen as well as the sides of the hip and along the back. This more extensive procedure allows greater access to these areas.

In general, the extended tummy tuck is ideal for patients who have lost substantial weight but are within a reasonable range of their goal weight. Patients must also be free of any serious health conditions. It is important that patients understand that the tummy tuck procedure is not a weight loss solution.

Procedure and Recovery

After administering anesthesia, Dr. Kishinevsky creates a horizontal incision that extends across the abdomen and stretches around to the lower back. She will then create another incision around the navel. Through the large incision, she will tighten your abdominal muscles, placing internal sutures as necessary. Excess skin is trimmed away and the remaining skin is pulled taut. She will then reposition the navel to an appropriate location before closing all external incisions.

The extended tummy tuck procedure results in a longer recovery period than the standard tummy tuck procedure. Most patients can return to work within one to two weeks. You should limit your activities to walking and other light exercise during this time. You can expect to make a full recovery in about six weeks, but your individual results may vary.

Pain, bruising, and swelling are all common during the first two to three weeks following your tummy tuck. Dr. Kishinevsky will provide you with pain medication to reduce your discomfort. She will also provide detailed instructions to care for your incisions and minimize the appearance of scars.