For individuals in Baton Rouge, LA, struggling with their lower abdominal area, surgical contouring with a tummy tuck may be the next step. Both women and men can feel self-conscious about how their stomach area looks, especially after dramatic weight loss. An extended tummy tuck procedure is a customized approach to help individuals with excessive, loose skin in their lower abdomen. Patients who have lost a substantial amount of weight or women who have post-pregnancy issues with their midsection can have a flatter, more toned-looking stomach and feel great about how they look with this tummy tuck procedure.

Dr. Erick Sanchez is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with a private practice in Baton Rouge, LA. Sanchez Plastic Surgery is a state-of-the-art surgical and nonsurgical facility that aims to help both women and men with all areas of the body. Dr. Sanchez and his professional team customize each procedure so patients can achieve their desired aesthetic goal. When it comes to body contouring procedures, there are various tummy tuck options. After a thorough consultation, Dr. Sanchez will devise a surgical plan and determine which type of tummy tuck procedure is needed.

Differences between tummy tuck and extended tummy tuck

Both of these procedures target the lower abdominal area to remove loose, sagging skin. As the name implies, an extended tummy tuck extends further than a traditional tummy tuck to accommodate a larger target area in the lower abdomen. It goes hip to hip as well as outward to incorporate the lower back or flank area. It is more invasive and can remove more significant amounts of loose skin. If needed, excess fatty tissue can be removed with liposuction. Underlying abdominal muscles can also be tightened when necessary, and the belly button is repositioned, much like with a traditional tummy tuck. One other difference between these two surgical techniques is that an extended tummy tuck scar is longer.

Six things to consider before and after an extended tummy tuck

An extended tummy tuck may be an ideal option for individuals with large amounts of excess skin, generally due to significant weight loss or multiple pregnancies. Here are some things to know before and after an extended tummy tuck procedure.

Surgical care

The most important factor is finding the right, qualified plastic surgeon to perform your extended tummy tuck. Most extended tummy tuck procedures also involve liposuction to remove any unwanted pockets of stubborn fat. Dr. Sanchez is a board-certified plastic surgeon who offers a modern, state-of-the-art surgical facility to give each patient the results they want.

A healthy start

Being in good health before your surgery can help you have a smoother recovery. With an extended tummy tuck or any type of abdominoplasty procedure, it’s important to be at or close to your ideal weight before surgery. Be mindful of what you drink and eat before and after an extended tummy tuck procedure so your weight stays consistent.

Prepare for your recovery

Prepare for your recovery before your extended tummy tuck. Have your recovery space ready, medications filled, and the right help in place, so your recovery can be worry-free.

Follow your surgeon’s instructions

When undergoing a surgical procedure, your doctor is the expert. Follow their post-surgical care instructions and protocol to have a successful extended tummy tuck recovery. Take prescribed medications as instructed, follow their guidelines regarding light activity, and attend all follow-up appointments as scheduled.

Rest and recuperate

Listen to your body. Taking it slow and not overdoing it will aid in a quicker, smoother recovery. Even if you feel great, take the time to heal and rest.

Know what to expect

Your results won’t be completely visible until your body fully heals. An extended tummy tuck scar is more substantial than the scar from a traditional tummy tuck, but it will lessen over time. Scarring can typically be concealed by undergarments or a bathing suit when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Sanchez. Your body needs to heal, so remember to have realistic expectations when looking in the mirror. Before you know it, your full results will be visible, and you can enjoy your flatter, more fit abdominal area.

Good candidates for an extended tummy tuck

Surgical contouring procedures like an extended tummy tuck generally involve individuals who have experienced extreme weight fluctuations. Excessive amounts of weight can cause the skin in the stomach area to lose elasticity or become stretched out. This is a common occurrence with mothers of twins or triplets, as well as individuals who have undergone a significant weight loss. Dr. Sanchez’s patients at Sanchez Plastic Surgery are candidates who have maintained their ideal weight for more than six months but are struggling with heavy, loose skin in their lower abdominal area.

Many factors can affect a patient’s recovery before and after an extended tummy tuck procedure. Every person and situation is different, but these general guidelines can help you know how to prepare and what to expect from your surgical contouring procedure. If you are in the Baton Rouge area and are struggling with loose skin in your abdominal area, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Erick Sanchez of Sanchez Plastic Surgery. An extended tummy tuck can help you feel better and look better, so contact us today to get started.