What is a Reverse Tummy Tuck?
A reverse abdominoplasty, one of the abdominoplasty procedures, is a surgical procedure performed specifically to address sagging skin in the upper abdomen. Where traditional abdominoplasty procedures focus on the lower abdomen, the laxity and excess skin in the upper abdomen may not be adequately addressed. A reverse abdominoplasty is a specialized technique that addresses this gap. This procedure involves removing excess skin through an incision in the inframammary fold and tightening the abdominal skin upward. A reverse abdominoplasty achieves a firm, flat, and aesthetically balanced appearance in the upper abdomen. It can also be combined with breast aesthetics, providing a versatile solution.
In Which Situations Is Reverse Tummy Tuck Performed?
The aesthetic needs of the abdominal area vary from person to person. While some individuals prioritize the lower abdomen, others experience more pronounced sagging in the upper abdomen. In such cases, a reverse abdominoplasty is particularly effective.
Sagging in the upper abdomen
Loosening and sagging skin in the upper abdomen can occur due to factors such as childbirth, excessive weight loss, aging, and genetic factors. This condition is not only an aesthetic problem but can also lead to functional issues such as skin irritation, hygiene difficulties, and clothing choices. A reverse tummy tuck lifts excess skin in this area, creating a more contoured appearance.
Situations that are not suitable for classic tummy tuck
Some individuals may have minimal deformity in the lower abdomen while experiencing significant sagging in the upper abdomen. A traditional abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) cannot achieve satisfactory results in this area. A reverse abdominoplasty is a solution specifically designed for these patients, focusing on the upper abdomen. It can also be safely performed on individuals who have previously undergone abdominal surgery and are not candidates for a traditional abdominoplasty.
Combined needs with breast aesthetics
A reverse abdominoplasty, which can be performed in the same session as a breast reduction, lift, or augmentation, can reduce both surgery time and recovery scars by using a shared incision in the underside of the breast. Especially for women seeking postpartum body contouring, addressing both upper abdominal sagging and breast issues in a single session provides a holistic aesthetic result.
Differences Between Reverse Abdominoplasty and Classic Abdominoplasty
While both procedures aim to improve the aesthetic appearance of the abdominal area, they differ in the area of application, incision location, and targeted deformities. A traditional tummy tuck removes excess skin and fat from the lower abdomen, while incisions are typically placed near the bikini line. This corrects sagging and looseness in the lower abdomen.
A reverse abdominoplasty focuses on the upper abdomen. The incision is made along the inframammary fold, and the skin is lifted upward. This procedure is ideal for those who have more laxity in the upper abdomen or who prefer not to have surgery on the lower abdomen. Furthermore, the recovery time and scar placement differ between the reverse abdominoplasty and the traditional method.
How is a Reverse Tummy Tuck Performed?
A reverse tummy tuck is a surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. The procedure typically takes between two and three hours. During the procedure, an incision is made in the crease beneath the breast, parallel to the natural bra line. This incision removes loose, sagging, or inelastic skin from the upper abdomen. If necessary, excess fat can also be removed using liposuction.
The skin is stretched upward and tightened, and the remaining tissue is secured beneath the breast. The incisions are closed with sutures and a dressing is applied. Drains may be placed during the procedure; these are removed within a few days. One of the most significant advantages of the surgery is that the incision is relatively invisible, since it aligns with the natural crease beneath the breast. Patients are usually discharged the same day or the following day.
Who is a Reverse Tummy Tuck Suitable For?
This procedure is suitable for individuals experiencing significant excess skin and sagging in the upper abdomen. It typically provides effective results for both men and women who have given birth, lost skin elasticity due to weight gain or loss, or who experience tissue loosening with age. It is also an ideal alternative for those who are inadequate or unsuitable for a traditional tummy tuck.
A reverse abdominoplasty yields more successful results in individuals with a suitable body mass index, no serious systemic disease, and non-smokers. To ensure satisfaction with the aesthetic results, it’s important for the patient to have realistic expectations and to clearly identify their needs through a preliminary assessment by the surgeon.
Recovery Process After Reverse Abdominoplasty
The recovery process may vary depending on individual factors and the extent of the procedure. Mild pain, swelling, and limited movement may occur in the first few days after surgery. During this period, painkillers and antibiotics recommended by your doctor should be used regularly. If a drain is placed, it is usually removed within 2–3 days. Rest and avoidance of sudden movements are recommended for the first week.
Wearing a compression garment is especially important during the first two weeks; this helps both the swelling subside and the tissues adapt to their new shape. Stitches are usually removed within 10 to 14 days. Most patients can return to their daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks, but strenuous sports and exercise should be avoided for approximately 4 to 6 weeks. It may take 3 to 6 months for the incisions to fully heal and the final aesthetic appearance to be achieved.
Is Reverse Tummy Tuck a Permanent Solution?
A reverse tummy tuck offers a permanent solution for addressing sagging skin and tissue. The excess skin removed during surgery doesn’t reoccur, so the results can be maintained for many years. However, factors such as aging, weight gain, and pregnancy can affect skin texture over time. Therefore, adopting a healthy lifestyle, maintaining weight control, and exercising regularly after the procedure can increase the longevity of the aesthetic results.
With careful post-operative care, suture scars will fade over time and remain minimally visible as they blend with the natural inframammary fold. Appropriate patient selection and the selection of an experienced surgeon are among the factors that directly impact the success of the procedure.
Where Will the Scar Be After a Reverse Tummy Tuck?
One of the most significant advantages of this surgery is that the incision is quite discreet. The surgical incision during a reverse abdominoplasty is placed parallel to the crease beneath the breast. Because this natural line is already present in the body, the scars are virtually unnoticeable from the outside. Over time, the incision line will blend with the skin tone and fade. Especially when combined with inframammary reshaping, the use of a common incision line ensures aesthetic integrity and prevents further scarring.
The degree of scarring can vary depending on the individual’s skin type, the care they take during the healing process, and the suture technique used by the doctor. Regular dressings, sun protection, and the use of recommended care products will help scars heal more quickly.
Reverse Tummy Tuck Reviews and Before-After Experiences
Reviews from individuals who have opted for this surgery are generally quite positive. Patients who haven’t achieved the desired results with a traditional tummy tuck or who have experienced significant sagging in the upper abdomen often express satisfaction with achieving a firmer, flatter, and more youthful abdominal appearance after the procedure.
Before-and-after comparisons of the surgery clearly reveal the difference in the upper abdominal area. The sagging and wrinkled appearance gives way to a flat, taut, and contoured abdomen. For some patients, the elimination of subcutaneous irritation, folds, and hygiene issues also increases the functional success of the procedure. Many people report that this cosmetic procedure directly positively impacts their clothing choices and body image.
What Other Aesthetic Procedures Can a Reverse Tummy Tuck Be Combined With?
This procedure is often combined with breast aesthetics to achieve more comprehensive body contouring. It can be performed in the same session as a breast lift, reduction, or augmentation . This not only provides overall tightening of the upper body but also prevents additional scarring by using a common incision line.
It’s also quite common to perform this procedure in conjunction with liposuction. While tightening the upper abdomen, excess fat around the waist, flanks, or back is removed through liposuction, creating a slimmer, more proportionate body contour. In some cases, a full body contouring procedure can be combined with a tummy tuck, arm lift, or thigh lift. A reverse tummy tuck is particularly important in “mommy makeover” procedures, which repair postpartum deformities.
Reverse Tummy Tuck Prices 2025
Reverse abdominoplasty costs vary depending on the surgical technique used, the extent of the area to be treated, the surgeon’s experience, and the equipment of the clinic where the procedure will be performed. Furthermore, costs may increase when combined with liposuction, breast augmentation, or other body contouring procedures. The duration of the procedure, the type of anesthesia, and the length of hospital stay also affect the cost.
Are reverse tummy tuck scars visible?
Because the scars are placed in the inframammary fold, they are virtually unnoticeable from the outside. This natural crease is an ideal location to conceal the incision line. The scars fade over time and blend in with the skin tone. Furthermore, the surgeon’s aesthetic suture techniques and the patient’s commitment to aftercare directly impact the longevity of the scars.
Can it be done at the same time as breast aesthetics?
Yes, a reverse abdominoplasty can be easily combined with breast augmentation. When performed in conjunction with a breast lift, reduction, or augmentation, a common incision line is used. This reduces surgical time and promotes a more complete and rapid recovery. Furthermore, it ensures proportionate and balanced body aesthetic results.
Will the upper abdomen become flat after surgery?
A reverse tummy tuck removes loose and sagging upper abdominal skin. This results in a smoother, more youthful appearance. This procedure is particularly effective in removing skin folds and looseness that occur after childbirth or weight loss. A flatter, smoother, and firmer upper abdomen is achieved.
Is the recovery process the same as a traditional tummy tuck?
While the recovery process is similar, there may be some differences due to the different incision locations. In a traditional abdominoplasty, the incision is in the lower abdomen, while in a reverse abdominoplasty, it is in the inframammary fold. For both procedures, rest, the use of a corset, and avoidance of physical activity are recommended for the first week. However, after a reverse abdominoplasty, some caution with body movement is necessary. Normal activity is usually resumed within two weeks, but final recovery can take up to six weeks.
When can I exercise after reverse tummy tuck?
Light walks can be started after the first week.
For moderate intensity exercises, wait at least 3 weeks.
Intense exercises and weight training that strain the abdominal muscles are generally recommended after the 6th week.
The time required to return to sports may vary depending on the individual’s recovery rate and the doctor’s individual evaluation.
The use of a corset can also be supportive during exercise during this process.
What determines the cost of reverse tummy tuck?
The extent of the surgery, the surgeon’s experience, any additional aesthetic enhancements performed, and the services offered by the clinic determine the cost. Contact us today for reverse tummy tuck pricing.