TrustMed Clinic : All About Extended Abdominoplasty: Who Needs It Most?

What Is Extended Abdominoplasty?

Extended abdominoplasty, often called an extended tummy tuck, is a more comprehensive version of the traditional tummy tuck. While a standard abdominoplasty focuses on the front of the abdomen, the extended approach also targets the:

• Flanks (love handles)
• Lower back
• Outer thighs (in some cases)

This technique is ideal for patients with significant skin and fat excess not only in the central abdomen but also along the sides of the waist and hips. The result is a flatter front, slimmer sides, and smoother transitions between the abdomen and lower body.

How Is It Different From a Standard Tummy Tuck?

Who Needs Extended Abdominoplasty the Most?

This procedure is specifically designed for patients who have undergone dramatic body changes and are left with extensive excess skin and fat around the midsection.

Ideal candidates include:

1. Post-Bariatric Surgery Patients

After significant weight loss (50 kg or more), patients are often left with hanging skin that extends around the abdomen and flanks. Extended abdominoplasty removes this excess, restores contours, and allows for more comfort in daily life.

2. Mothers After Multiple Pregnancies

Women who have had multiple pregnancies may experience:

• Skin laxity on the sides of the abdomen
• Muscle separation across the entire abdominal wall
• Stubborn fat deposits around the hips

Extended tummy tuck helps rebuild the core structure and tightens loose skin beyond the central belly.

3. Individuals with Apple-Shaped Bodies

Patients with central fat distribution and poor skin elasticity around the waistline benefit from the more inclusive reach of this technique.

4. Patients with Previous Surgeries or C-Sections

If previous procedures have left asymmetry, scarring, or excess skin, extended abdominoplasty can revise and restore balance to the body contour.

What Does the Surgery Involve?

Extended abdominoplasty is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts 3–4 hours. The steps include:

1. Extended incision from hip to hip, curving toward the back
2. Skin and fat removal from the abdomen and flanks
3. Muscle repair (diastasis recti correction) along the abdominal wall
4. Repositioning of the belly button for natural appearance
5. Tightening of remaining skin for smooth contours
6. Placement of surgical drains (temporary)

At Trustmed Clinic, all extended tummy tuck procedures are performed in JCI-accredited hospitals by board-certified surgeons with extensive body contouring experience.

Recovery and Downtime

Recovery from extended abdominoplasty is more intensive than a mini or standard tummy tuck, but it is well-managed with professional care.

Recovery Timeline:

Trustmed Support Includes:

• Nurse-monitored medical hotel recovery
• Compression garments to reduce swelling and shape results
• Daily post-op checks and wound care
• 1-year follow-up care, including remote check-ins after you return home
• 4X Insurance Protection for surgical safety and peace of mind

Benefits of Extended Abdominoplasty

• Removes large amounts of excess skin and fat
• Restores core strength and stability
• Smooths the flanks and back waistline
• Improves clothing fit and body confidence
• Can be combined with liposuction or body lift for full transformation

Can It Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes—extended abdominoplasty is frequently combined with:

• 360° liposuction for enhanced contouring
• Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) using fat transfer
• Thigh lift or arm lift in full-body transformations
• Breast surgery as part of a mommy makeover

Trustmed surgeons assess your overall health and anatomy to create a safe, staged plan if multiple surgeries are needed.