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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.

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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.
If found to be a suitable candidate, the patient receives instructions on preparing for the extended tummy tuck. This includes:
  • 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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

The belly button is moved higher to ensure it looks perfect. This procedure is only performed when significant corrections have been made.

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

Scar care is an essential part of recovery after an extended tummy tuck because it helps achieve the best cosmetic results. Some recommendations to minimize scarring include:
Apply silicone-based gels or sheets
When used consistently for several months, these products flatten and soften scars. Once wounds have fully closed, apply gel or silicone sheets over incision areas.
Use sun protection
Exposure to UV rays can darken scarring for up to a year after surgery. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher over scars whenever skin is exposed to sunlight. Consider wearing compression garments over the stomach area when out in the sun.
Consider laser treatments
Laser resurfacing procedures may help reduce the appearance of thicker, raised scars from an extended tummy tuck. Multiple sessions are often needed for optimal results. Discuss these options with Dr. LaBarbera once scars have matured, typically 6-12 months after surgery.

Candidates for Extended Tummy Tuck

Excess Skin and Fat in the Abdomen & Flanks
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.
Muscle Laxity
Individuals who experience abdominal muscle separation may also be good candidates. This often occurs after substantial weight loss, pregnancy, or aging, when the abdominal wall has stretched beyond its natural ability to retract. An extended tummy tuck helps address this issue by tightening the muscles and creating a firmer appearance.
Realistic Expectations
Ideal candidates understand the scope of what an extended tummy tuck may achieve and have realistic expectations regarding the outcome. While the procedure significantly improves body contours, patients must recognize that it will leave some visible scarring, which can be minimized with proper aftercare.
Good Overall Health
Good overall health is essential for any surgical procedure, including extended tummy tucks. Candidates should be free from any severe medical conditions that could impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or cardiovascular issues. This ensures a smoother recovery and reduces the likelihood of complications during or after surgery.
Non-Smokers Committed to a Healthy Lifestyle
Candidates for this procedure are generally non-smokers who maintain a healthy lifestyle. Nicotine can impede the recuperation process and increase the risk of complications, so plastic surgeons typically require patients to abstain from it for a period before and after the operation. Additionally, a commitment to maintaining a stable weight helps ensure long-term results.

Benefits of Extended Tummy Tuck

An extended tummy tuck offers more extensive body contouring than a traditional abdominoplasty by addressing excess skin and fat in the lower abdomen and along the flanks. This broader approach creates a more streamlined and balanced appearance across the entire midsection.
Beyond removing excess skin, an extended tummy tuck also tightens weakened abdominal muscles and addresses the underlying structure of the lower body. This adjustment can create a firmer core and help improve posture. Additionally, it helps refine the flanks, resulting in a more toned look.
Stretch marks below the navel are a common concern, especially after pregnancy or weight fluctuations. An extended tummy tuck can eliminate these cosmetic problems across a broad area, improving the overall texture and appearance of the skin.
Our procedures contribute to better overall body balance by targeting both the abdomen and surrounding areas. They remove excess tissue and reshape the waistline. An extended tummy tuck creates a more harmonious look that enhances the natural body proportions.
This comprehensive surgery addresses excess skin, muscle laxity, and stubborn fat deposits, significantly boosting self-confidence. It often improves comfort in clothing and daily activities. The results can be transformative, making physical movements and wardrobe choices more enjoyable.

Cost of Extended Tummy Tuck in Scottsdale, AZ

The extended tummy tuck cost in Scottsdale varies from $7,000 to $12,000. It depends on the surgeon’s experience and qualifications, the extent of the procedure, techniques, anesthesia fees, and additional expenses. Patients should consult Dr. LaBarbera for exact price quotes based on their needs and goals. Financing options are available to break the costs into more manageable monthly payments.
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What Makes Our Extended Tummy Tuck Different From Others?

As a board-certified and highly trained plastic surgeon, Dr. LaBarbera provides the highest quality of care while adhering to stringent safety standards. His extensive experience with body contouring allows him to create customized treatment plans to help patients achieve their aesthetic goals. Dr. LaBarbera utilizes the latest surgical techniques to ensure optimal results with minimal scarring. His dedication to patient education and support throughout the process promotes confidence and satisfaction. Our team can deliver unparalleled surgical results that enhance appearance and body image.
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