Extended Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale, AZ
Our plastic surgery practice in Scottsdale offers extended tummy tucks to address excess skin and fat in the abdomen and flanks. This comprehensive procedure tightens belly muscles and removes loose skin for excellent cosmetic results. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. LaBarbera offers exceptional skills and compassionate care, creating life-changing outcomes for patients seeking major body transformation.
What Is an Extended Tummy Tuck?
An extended tummy tuck is a complex procedure that corrects cosmetic issues in the abdomen and flanks. This surgery involves tightening sagging skin and removing excess fat deposits over the entire belly area. It typically takes 2-4 hours to perform under general anesthesia. The extended tummy tuck aims to comprehensively reshape the torso in patients with significant loose skin and fat. Dr. LaBarbera may also tighten the abdominal muscles if they are separated.
Preparation for Extended Tummy Tuck
Before an extended tummy tuck, a consultation is scheduled to assess the patient’s goals, medical history, and anatomy. Dr. LaBarbera evaluates the amount of excess skin, fat, and muscle separation in the abdominal area to determine if an extended abdominoplasty is appropriate or if a less extensive option, such as a traditional tummy tuck, may suffice. He also looks for risk factors that could complicate the surgical procedure and recovery.
- Discontinuing certain medications and supplements that increase bleeding risks
- Arranging a ride home from our surgery center
- Planning for proper recovery assistance and supplies
- Following any recommendations on nutrition
- Smoking/vaping cessation
- Skin care regimens in the weeks leading up to the procedure
Clear communication with Dr. LaBarbera helps set realistic expectations and prepares one for the healing period required after this body contouring surgery.
Extended Tummy Tuck Procedure
Anesthesia
The extended tummy tuck is performed under general anesthesia to keep the patient comfortable and pain-free during the procedure. Anesthesia is administered intravenously by our anesthesiology team before the surgery begins. It causes the patient to go into a sleep-like state without awareness or pain.
Incisions
Dr. LaBarbera makes a long incision that extends from one hip bone across the pubic area to the other hip bone in a low, horizontal pattern. It allows the surgeon to tighten muscles and remove excess skin. The extended tummy tuck incision is longer than in a full tummy tuck because it bends around the flanks, reaching the lower back. The surgeon may also make an incision around the belly button to reposition it to a more youthful height.
Muscle Tightening
Dr. LaBarbera can tighten the vertical muscles called rectus abdominis running down the center of the belly. He uses various suturing techniques to bring these tissues together for a flatter, firmer appearance.
Excess Skin Removal
Once the muscles have been repaired and tightened, Dr. LaBarbera stretches the remaining abdominal skin over the newly contoured area and trims off any excess, hanging tissue. The remaining skin is stitched together to create a smoother abdominal profile.
Belly Button Repositioning
The belly button is moved higher to ensure it looks perfect. This procedure is only performed when significant corrections have been made.
Closing the Incisions
After removing excess skin, Dr. LaBarbera closes the incisions using sutures, surgical tape, glue, and possibly drains. This is done with great care to minimize tummy tuck scars.
Recovery After Extended Tummy Tuck Surgery
After an extended tummy tuck, patients need to rest at home. They usually experience pain, swelling, and bruising. Medications are prescribed to manage discomfort and facilitate healing. During the initial recovery period, patients should have someone available to assist them with daily activities. We recommend walking in a slightly bent position to avoid putting pressure on the incisions.
Patients should continue resting during the first week after surgery and avoid strenuous activities. Swelling and bruising may worsen before improving. Pain relievers must be used to help manage these symptoms and enhance comfort. Patients might feel tightness across the abdomen as the incision heals. They should follow all instructions from Dr. LaBarbera on wound care, compression garments, and activity restrictions.
Patients feel better week by week but should maintain a relatively low activity level during the first month. Bruising and swelling continue to subside. Patients may return to non-strenuous work after 10-14 days. Post-surgical compression garments should be worn to encourage proper healing and help reduce swelling.
After 5 weeks of recovery, patients can usually resume light exercise. Swelling might fluctuate as activity increases. During this time, extended tummy tuck results continue improving. Scars begin fading but will remain reddish-pink for several more months.
Patients can resume all types of exercise after 6-7 weeks of recovery. Swelling should be minimal, but healing may continue for a year. Patients must protect incision scars from sun exposure during this period.
Scar Care After an Extended Tummy Tuck
Candidates for Extended Tummy Tuck
Ideal candidates for an extended abdominoplasty have significant excess skin and fat in the belly area and along the flanks or love handles. Such patients need more comprehensive body contouring than a traditional or mini tummy tuck can offer.
Benefits of Extended Tummy Tuck
Comprehensive Contouring
of the Abdomen and Flanks
Tightening of Abdominal Muscles
Reduction of Stretch Marks
Enhanced Body Proportion
Improved Confidence and Comfort
Cost of Extended Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale, AZ
What Makes Our Extended Tummy Tuck Different From Others?
