Extended Abdominoplasty

What Is an Extended Tummy Tuck (Extended Abdominoplasty)?

An Extended Tummy Tuck, also known as Extended Abdominoplasty, is an advanced body contouring surgery designed to remove excess skin and fat not only from the abdomen but also from the flanks and waistline. This procedure goes beyond a standard tummy tuck to provide a more comprehensive reshaping of the lower torso.

In Antalya, extended tummy tuck surgery is commonly preferred by patients who have experienced significant weight loss or have excess skin and fat extending around the hips. Dr. Altan Tekin, a plastic, reconstructive, and aesthetic surgery specialist in Antalya, performs extended abdominoplasty using modern techniques to achieve balanced, natural, and long-lasting results.

How Is an Extended Tummy Tuck Different from a Standard Tummy Tuck?

Unlike a standard tummy tuck, which mainly targets the area below the belly button, an extended tummy tuck involves a longer incision that extends around the sides of the body toward the lower back.

This allows the surgeon to:

• Remove a larger amount of excess skin and fat

• Tighten the skin more extensively

• Improve contour of the abdomen, waist, hips, and lower back

If necessary, weakened or separated abdominal muscles—often caused by pregnancy or major weight loss—can also be tightened during the procedure.

Who Is a Good Candidate for an Extended Tummy Tuck?

Extended abdominoplasty is particularly suitable for patients who:

• Have undergone massive weight loss

• Have excess skin and fat extending to the flanks and hips

• Experience abdominal muscle weakness or separation

• Are unable to achieve desired contour through diet and exercise

• Are in good general health with stable body weight

A detailed consultation is essential to determine whether an extended tummy tuck is the most appropriate option.

What to Expect from an Extended Abdominoplasty Procedure

Longer Incision

The incision used in an extended tummy tuck is longer than in a standard procedure, creating a horizontal scar that extends along the waistline. It is carefully positioned to be hidden under underwear or swimwear.

Muscle Tightening

If abdominal muscles are weak or separated, they can be tightened to create a firmer and flatter abdominal appearance.

Recovery

Recovery after an extended tummy tuck generally takes longer than a standard tummy tuck. Most patients can expect a recovery period of approximately 8–12 weeks, depending on individual healing and the extent of the surgery. Following post-operative instructions is essential for a smooth recovery.

Results

Extended tummy tuck before-and-after results typically show a significant improvement in body shape, with a flatter abdomen, narrower waist, and smoother lower back contour.

Extended Tummy Tuck in Antalya with Dr. Altan Tekin

Choosing an experienced surgeon is crucial for extended tummy tuck surgery. Dr. Altan Tekin, plastic surgery specialist in Antalya, offers extended abdominoplasty with a patient-focused approach, prioritizing safety, scar placement, and natural body proportions.

During consultation, Dr. Altan Tekin provides detailed information about expected results, scar appearance, recovery, and cost, ensuring patients make informed decisions.

Extended Tummy Tuck Gallery

Extended Tummy Tuck Before and Afters

Our Extended Tummy Tuck Before and After photos showcase the transformative results of this comprehensive procedure. These images display a significant reduction in the extra skin around the abdomen and flanks, revealing a smoother, firmer and more contoured midsection.

Patients who undergo an Extended Tummy Tuck often see dramatic changes in their body shape, with a tightened abdominal area that extends around to the hips and lower back. A small amount of weight, typically between 1.4 kg and 2.3 kg, is also lost as a result of the procedure.

The Cost of Extended Tummy Tuck

Extended Tummy Tuck costs can vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, the experience of your surgeon and the extent of post-operative care required. Enquire now to find out more.

Who is the Ideal Candidate for an Extended Tummy Tuck?

The ideal candidate for an Extended Tummy Tuck is someone who has extra skin and fat around the abdomen, flanks and lower back, often caused by significant weight loss, pregnancy or natural ageing.

Key characteristics of an ideal candidate include:

• Stable weight: Candidates should be near their ideal body weight and have maintained it for at least six months.

• Good physical health: Being in good overall health minimises surgical risks and helps with the recovery process.

• Non-smoker: Smoking can negatively affect the healing process and increase the likelihood of complications. Non-smokers or those who have quit smoking well in advance of the surgery are ideal candidates.

• Realistic expectations: Understanding the scope and limitations of the surgery, including the fact that it will result in a scar that extends around the waist, is important for setting realistic expectations.

• Emotional preparation: Undergoing major surgery requires mental preparation. It’s best for candidates to have a support system in place for their recovery period.

Having a thorough discussion with one of our expert plastic surgeons will help you determine if an Extended Tummy Tuck is the ideal option based on your individual body shape, goals and medical history.

Why Do People Have Extended Tummy Tuck?

Extended Tummy Tuck is designed to address several functional or medical concerns and conditions, and achieves aesthetic improvements:

Medical reasons:

• To remove excess skin and tissue after significant weight loss or pregnancy, which may cause skin irritation, infection, or posture issues.

• To repair or tighten abdominal muscles (rectus diastasis) that can lead to back pain, core weakness and mobility issues.

• To address skin overhang that interferes maintainting personal hygiene.

Aesthetic reasons:

• To contour the abdomen, waist, flanks and lower back for a smoother, more proportionate silhouette.

• To restore a firmer, flatter abdominal profile following major weight or body changes.

• To enhance comfort and confidence in fitted clothing.

Tummy Tuck vs Extended Tummy Tuck: What Are the Differences?

The difference between a Tummy Tuck and an Extended Tummy Tuck is that the traditional procedure doesn’t extend to the flanks.

A standard Tummy Tuck primarily addresses the lower abdomen, focusing on removing the extra fat between the belly button and pubic region and tightening the abdominal muscles. This procedure works well for those who have extra skin below the navel, which typically happens after significant weight loss or pregnancy.

An Extended Tummy Tuck targets the abdominal area as well as the flanks and lower back. This surgical procedure is especially beneficial for those with more excess skin and fat that wraps around the sides to the back. The Extended Tummy Tuck provides a more comprehensive approach that contours the abdomen and waist.

Consulting with a board-certified cosmetic surgeon will help you determine which procedure is most suitable for you.

What is the Recovery Period for an Extended Tummy Tuck?

The recovery period for an Extended Tummy Tuck depends on individual healing processes and the extent of the surgery but it typically takes 8-12 weeks. Patients can return to work within a week and resume strenuous activities in around six weeks, with full recovery taking up to 6 months.

What Are the Risks of an Extended Abdominoplasty?

An Extended Abdominoplasty comes with the following set of risks:

• Scarring: Due to the extensive nature of an Extended Tummy Tuck incision, which often extends around the hips to the lower back, scarring is more significant compared to a standard Tummy Tuck. These Extended Tummy Tuck scars fade eventually and can be concealed under clothing.

• Infection: As with any cosmetic surgery, there is a risk of infection at the site of incision. Sticking to post-operative care instructions is crucial to minimise this risk.

• Blood Clots: The risk of developing blood clots such as deep vein thrombosis increases with the extent of the surgery. Following your surgeon's advice on mobilisation after surgery can help prevent this complication.

• Swelling and Pain: Extended Abdominoplasty involves a larger area which can lead to more swelling and discomfort during the recovery period. Proper pain management and the use of compression garments are essential to alleviate these symptoms.

• Healing Issues: Some patients may experience delayed healing or complications at the incision site, especially if they have certain health conditions or lifestyle habits such as smoking.

• Anaesthesia Risks: Reactions to anaesthesia are rare but can occur. It’s important to discuss any previous anaesthesia reactions or health issues with your surgeon.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is extended abdominoplasty?

It’s a tummy tuck that removes excess skin and fat beyond the usual area.

How long is recovery?

Most patients take about two to four weeks off work to heal comfortably.

Is the procedure painful?

Discomfort is normal but manageable with prescribed pain medication and proper rest.

Initial results appear within weeks, with full healing taking several months.

When can I see results?

Do you offer consultations?

Yes, I provide detailed consultations to discuss your goals and options.

What BMI do I need to be for an Extended Tummy Tuck?

It’s recommended to have a BMI below 30 for an Extended Tummy Tuck. Being overweight for a Tummy Tuck can increase surgical risks and impact the healing process and results. Consulting with your surgeon is crucial to understand your suitability for the procedure.

What's the difference between an Extended Tummy Tuck and a 360 Tummy Tuck?

An Extended Tummy Tuck focuses on removing extra skin and fat from the abdomen and extending to the flanks. A 360 Tummy Tuck, also known as a Circumferential Tummy Tuck, targets the entire midsection including the back.

Circular Tummy Tuck vs Extended Tummy Tuck, which is better?

A Circular Tummy Tuck, similar to the 360 Tummy Tuck, goes around the entire waistline, addressing both the front and back. The Extended Tummy Tuck, while offering significant coverage, typically focuses on the front extending to the sides but not fully around the back.

Does an Extended Tummy Tuck lift the thighs?

No, an Extended Tummy Tuck does not lift the thighs. The procedure primarily targets the abdominal area and flanks. A Thigh Lift would address any concerns with the thighs.

What is an Extended Fleur De Lis Tummy Tuck?

An Extended Fleur De Lis Tummy Tuck involves a horizontal incision across the lower abdomen as well as a vertical incision from the lower breastbone to the pubic area. This procedure is ideal for those who have excess skin in the lower and upper abdomen.

What is a Non Surgical Tummy Tuck?

A Non Surgical Tummy Tuck tightens and contours the abdominal area without using traditional surgical procedures. The procedure uses technologies such as laser, radiofrequency and ultrasound to reduce fat and enhance skin elasticity using less invasive techniques with a minimal recovery time required.

What is a Mini Abdominoplasty?

Mini Abdominoplasty, or Mini Tummy Tuck, targets the lower abdomen, specifically below the belly button. It's less extensive than a full Tummy Tuck as it focuses on removing the excess fat from the lower abdominal area, with shorter recovery times and smaller scars.

What is the Difference Between a C Section and a Tummy Tuck?

A C Section is a surgical operation to deliver a baby by making incisions in the abdomen. A Tummy Tuck is a cosmetic operation designed to enhance the appearance of the abdomen by removing extra skin and tightening muscles.

What is the Difference Between Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck?

Liposuction removes fat from specific body parts, including the abdomen, without addressing excess skin or muscle tightening. A Tummy Tuck removes excess skin and tightens the muscles in the abdomen but it isn’t focused on removing fat.

What is the Difference Between Liposuction and a Tummy Tuck?

For men, the procedure often focuses on reducing excess fat and creating a more defined midsection. For women, Abdominoplasty procedures aim to restore the abdominal area post-pregnancy or after significant weight loss, with an emphasis on tightening the skin and repairing separated abdominal muscles.

Is a Plus Size Tummy Tuck the same as an Extended Tummy Tuck?

Depending on a patient’s concerns or desired results, a Plus Size Tummy Tuck may use some of the same techniques as an Extended Tummy Tuck, but is tailored to work for anyone who has higher levels of fat or excess skin around their abdomen. For larger patients, whose BMI is over 30, an overnight stay may be required for safety reasons following a Plus Size Tummy Tuck.