What Are the Different Types of Tummy Tuck Surgeries?

Everyone dreams of having a flat and firm stomach with tight skin. Tummy tuck surgery is a cosmetic surgery that improves the abdomen's shape by removing excess fat and loose skin. Like other major surgeries, the tummy tuck has some benefits and side effects that should be considered before the operation. This article discusses different aspects of tummy tuck surgery and enumerates its risks and advantages. 

What Is a Tummy Tuck?

People might have extra fat and skin around their abdomen for several reasons, including significant changes in weight, pregnancy, aging, previous surgeries, or genetic problems. Tummy tuck surgery, also known as abdominoplasty and mommy makeover, is a major procedure in which stubborn fats, loose skin, and stretch marks are removed from the abdomen, especially the areas below the belly button. Also, the wide navels can get smaller, and the abdominal muscles are tightened in this operation. 

Interestingly, a mommy makeover can be done with other cosmetic surgeries such as breast reduction, augmentation, and liposuction. People who have done liposuction can undergo abdominoplasty surgery to eliminate the excess skin and have a better body contour.

Types of Tummy Tuck

Today, various types of tummy tuck surgery are practiced throughout the world. In this section, we introduce six common types of abdominoplasty and compare their procedures:

• Full or Standard Tummy Tuck
• Mini Tummy Tuck
• Extended Tummy Tuck
• Fleur-De-Lis Tummy Tuck
• Reverse Tummy Tuck
• Endoscopic Tummy Tuck

Full or Standard Tummy Tuck

This method is suitable for people between the ages of 21 and 45 who have moderate excess weight and a healthy lifestyle. A full tummy tuck involves a big horizontal incision from hip to hip and often includes repositioning of the navel. The advantage of a standard tummy tuck surgery is that all excess skin and tissues are removed, and the skin is tightened. However, this method involves lots of scarring, and recovery takes two to four weeks.

Mini Tummy Tuck

This operation suits those with loose skin or minor excess weight below the belly button. In a mini tummy tuck, the incision is shorter and is made under the bikini line. The advantage of this procedure is that the lower abdominal muscles get tightened, but the navel is not repositioned. Since a mini tummy tuck is less invasive than a full tummy tuck, it has a shorter recovery period, and you can get back to work 7 to 10 days after the surgery.

Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck is a more invasive and extensive version of a full tummy tuck and is mainly done for the ones with large abdomen and love handles or a significant amount of fat on their back. This method involves a big horizontal incision from the back of the hipbone, along the sides and the lower abdomen, and then to the back of the opposite hipbone. Although extended tummy tuck surgery ends in more scarring and repositioning of the navel, its results are prominent as the tissue and loose skin from the abdominal and flanks are entirely removed.  

Fleur-De-Lis Tummy Tuck

This technique is the most invasive type of abdominoplasty surgery and is mostly suitable for patients who have lost a lot of weight and have too much excess skin. This method can be performed after weight loss surgeries such as gastric bypass. In fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty, a large horizontal incision is made from hips to hips. Then, a vertical cut is made from the bottom of the ribs down to the pubic area, intersecting with the first incision. By making these incisions, the surgeon has more access to remove loose skin around the abdomen. The scars of a fleur-de-lis tummy tuck can take longer to heal, and you should stay at home for 4 to 6 weeks after the operation.

Reverse Tummy Tuck

Unlike other types of tummy tuck, which focus on the mid or lower abdominal parts, in reverse tummy tuck, the focus is on the upper abdomen regions. During the reverse tummy tuck, the surgeon makes an incision across the chest and underneath the breasts to remove the excess skin and lift the upper abdomen.

Endoscopic Tummy Tuck

To perform endoscopic abdominoplasty surgery, the surgeon makes several small incisions around the bikini line and on the bottom of the navel. Then, they use a tiny camera called an endoscope with a minor surgical instrument attached to it to operate. This method is minimally invasive and more suitable for patients with excess fat in their abdomen but a small amount of loose skin around it. The main advantages of this method are that its recovery period is just one week and involves minimum scarring.

When Is a Tummy Tuck Necessary?

People undergo tummy tuck surgery for various reasons, but mostly, they get this surgery due to having the following:

• Loose skin or deformed tissues after pregnancy and losing weight;
• Loose connective tissues around the abdominal muscles;
• Bulky love handles or pits in the waistline;
• Stretched belly button;
• Scars from an earlier surgery or a trauma;
• Pain in the back;
• Too much pressure on the bladder.

Fortunately, abdominoplasty can improve your appearance and overall health by removing extra fats, tissues, and skin. Also, you can have tummy tuck surgery and other operations such as hernia surgery, breast augmentation, and hip liposuction to maximize its effects.

Good Candidate for Tummy Tuck

Those who want to lose localized fats that are difficult to lose with diet and exercise alone and who are at a stable weight are the best candidates for abdominoplasty.

You should possess the following qualities in order to have tummy tuck surgery: 

• Have firm, elastic skin around your abdomen;
• Don't smoke;
• Have a weak abdominal muscle that needs to be tightened;
• Not be pregnant or plan to become pregnant within six months of surgery;
• Engage in physical activity;
• Lead a healthy lifestyle.

On the other hand, if you have the following conditions, you are not a good candidate for tummy tuck:

• Having a life-threatening disease such as a heart problem or diabetes;
• Having a history of chronic infection;
• Having wound-healing problems;
• Having plans to get pregnant in the future;
• Having a BMI greater than 30;
• Having had a previous abdominal surgery that caused significant scar tissue.

Dos and Don'ts Before Abdominoplasty

How you prepare for abdominoplasty surgery can greatly affect how well your body responds to the surgery and how easy your recovery period will be. So, before undergoing abdominoplasty, consider the following tips:

• Your doctor will ask you to take a complete blood count (CBC) test and take several pictures of your abdomen to make sure you are in good health;
• Discuss your expectations with your surgeon and ask all your questions before the surgery;
• Provide a detailed medical history consisting of your current and past medical conditions as well as your recent weight gain and loss;
• If you have any allergy, inform your doctor;
• Your surgeon may make changes to the medications you are already taking. You should follow their order to minimize the risks of tummy tuck;
• Get mentally prepared for the surgery and the weeks after that;
• Stop smoking for at least six weeks before surgery, as it can cause infection and necrosis;
• Get as close to your ideal weight as possible;
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements, as they can increase the risk of bleeding;
• Maintain a stable weight for at least a year before getting a tummy tuck surgery;
• Make plans for your post-op period;  
• Avoid drinking and eating for at least 8 hours before the operation.

What to Do the Night Before Tummy Tuck Surgery?

If you wonder what to do the night before tummy tuck surgery, read the following:

• Drink as much water as you can to be hydrated on the morning of the surgery;
• Have a light meal rich in protein at night (for example, grilled chicken breast);
• Take a shower and shave the operating part;
• Avoid taking any medication that may hinder your operation;
• Remove all of your jewelry, including your body piercings;
• Avoid using body lotions, hair sprays, and other products containing alcohol and paraben.

What to Expect After Tummy Tuck?

You will stay in the hospital for 24 to 72 hours because a stomach tuck is regarded as a major operation under general anesthesia. A dressing will be applied to your wounds during this period, and a drain will be inserted into your incisions to drain any fluid. You might not be able to eat and drink normally for a few days following the procedure, and you most likely have moderate to severe abdominal pain that can be managed with prescribed painkillers.

You won't be able to drive for at least two weeks after surgery, so you'll need someone to drive you home after you're released. Eat a balanced diet and sleep with your knees bent when you're at home. It should be noted that after stomach tuck surgery, you may experience pain, bruising, swelling, numbness, and scarring. However, these side effects will eventually go away as your wounds heal.

Tummy Tuck Recovery Week by Week

Recovery time depends on the type of surgery, your overall health, and how well you follow aftercare. Here is a summary of the first eight weeks:

• Weeks 1-2: Avoid heavy activity, since even light stretching can increase swelling. Short, light walks help prevent blood clots. Avoid sexual activity for at least two weeks.
• Weeks 2-4: Pain, bruising, and tightness gradually fade, but some swelling remains. A firm, pink line around the incisions is normal. You can return to your normal diet, but watch your calorie intake to keep a stable weight.
• Weeks 4-8: You can return to regular exercise such as walking and light aerobics. Still avoid heavy sports such as weight lifting, mountain climbing, and martial arts.
• Week 8 and beyond: Results become visible and scars look paler. Most swelling goes down within 8 to 10 weeks, but mild swelling can last about four more months.

Tummy Tuck Pros and Cons

Beyond a flatter stomach and a slimmer waist, a tummy tuck can offer functional benefits. By tightening and repairing separated abdominal muscles, it strengthens core support and improves posture. Some patients also notice less back pain, and many report greater self-confidence, since they feel more comfortable in their clothes and in their body.

Like any major surgery, it also carries risks. Scarring is unavoidable in nearly all cases, and the outcome may be slightly asymmetrical. Possible complications include infection, bleeding, poor wound healing, and nerve damage that can cause long-lasting numbness. Blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism, are rare but serious. The risks are higher for people with diabetes, high blood pressure, or a weakened immune system, which is why a thorough medical evaluation before surgery is essential. 

Tummy Tuck Surgery Side Effects

Like all major surgeries, a tummy tuck carries common risks such as bleeding, infection, blood clots, nausea, and anesthesia problems. The main side effects are:

• Pain and swelling: Expected in the first two weeks; a compression garment and light walking help.
• Seroma: A fluid pocket under the skin, which is why a drain is usually placed for 5 to 7 days.
• Bleeding and hematoma: Severe bleeding or a painful hematoma needs immediate medical attention.
• Necrosis: Tissue death from reduced blood supply, which smoking greatly increases.
• Infection: Watch for redness, heat, fever above 38°C, odor, or discharge.
• Numbness and burning: Usually temporary, but occasionally permanent.
• Scarring: Unavoidable, though most scars are hidden along the bikini line.

Tummy Tuck Complications Years Later

Besides the early complications of a tummy tuck, some complications may last longer. Despite being rare, you probably experience the following side effects years after the tummy tuck surgery:

• Change in the sensation of the operated area;
• Pus coming out of the belly button;
• Chronic infection;
• Deep scars or keloids;
• Skin discoloration; 
• Sharp nerve pain; 
• Consistent swelling that lasts for more than a year.

Tummy Tuck Results

After tummy tuck surgery, your abdominal muscles are more vulnerable and need much time to heal. Therefore, most surgeons ask their patients to refrain from strenuous activity for six weeks after abdominoplasty. You can ask your doctor when you can start exercising, but it is suggested that you start walking around the house a week after the operation. You can also walk up and down the stairs when you don't feel a sharp sore in your stomach. From the second week onwards, you can have five to 10-minute long walks, but you should not go jogging or running until your doctor permits you. 

Tummy Tuck in Iran

Many foreign patients declare Iran the best country for tummy tuck surgery. But why is that? Selecting the right plastic surgeon for your tummy tuck is the first step to having an ideal body. Iranian plastic surgeons are board-certified and have extensive experience in body plastic surgery, especially liposuction and tummy tuck. By getting abdominoplasty in Iran, you can have a high-quality surgery at a fair price and enjoy its results afterward.

Tummy Tuck in Iran

For more information about the price of tummy tucks and the best abdominoplasty surgeon in Iran, contact the Raadina team.

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FAQs about Tummy Tuck Surgery

How can I get rid of fibrosis after a tummy tuck?

Tummy tuck fibrosis is a bit harder to deal with than normal scars. Topical creams, laser therapy, ultrasound therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, or a minor surgery can treat them.

Is a tummy tuck painful?

A tummy tuck is painful compared to other cosmetic surgeries such as liposuction or breast augmentation. In fact, on a scale of 1 to 10, tummy tuck pain is estimated at 6 to 7 on the first week and 3 to 4 on the second week. 

How long does a tummy tuck pain last?

The first week after the tummy tuck is the hardest, but over time, the pain subsides. In general, the tummy tuck pain should be diminished after two weeks.

How long after an abdominoplasty can I get pregnant?

You should avoid getting pregnant for at least a year after abdominoplasty as your muscles and tissues need time to heal. In general, it is recommended to get a tummy tuck when you no longer intend to get pregnant because pregnancy causes the muscles to return to their pre-surgery state.

Do I lose weight after a tummy tuck?

Abdominoplasty surgery is not a weight-loss procedure so you won't lose too much weight afterward. However, you will look slimmer and thinner after the tummy tuck as your excess tissues and fats are removed.

When can I return to work after a tummy tuck?

Depending on your overall health condition and how physically demanding your job is, you can return to work two to four weeks after the surgery.

What day after tummy tuck is the hardest?

The first three to five days after the tummy tuck are the hardest, as the pain is at its maximum. Fortunately, you can manage your pain by taking strong painkillers. 

Who should not get a tummy tuck?

People with a BMI over 30, blood clotting disorders, diabetes, and high blood pressure are considered less ideal candidates for a tummy tuck.

How long does a tummy tuck last?

Should you maintain a healthy and steady lifestyle, the results of the tummy tuck surgery will last forever. Remember that as you age, your body changes, and you may naturally gain weight. So, having a regular exercise plan for the rest of your life is necessary.  

How long is a tummy tuck surgery?

Depending on the extent and technique of the operation, it takes two to three hours for the surgery to finish. However, it would be best if you planned to be at the hospital or clinic for at least four hours. 

Is a tummy tuck a high-risk procedure?

A tummy tuck is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified surgeon on a healthy patient, but it carries more risk than minor cosmetic procedures.

Is a tummy tuck major surgery?

Yes. A tummy tuck is a major surgery performed under general anesthesia. It involves removing excess skin and fat and tightening the abdominal muscles. Most patients stay in the hospital for one to three days and need several weeks to recover fully.